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What does it take to truly belong?

Jim and Meghan sit down with Ethan Stueve, husband, father, missionary, and Catholic podcaster, for a heartfelt conversation about building and finding an authentic Catholic community. From his days as a college missionary to his bold attempts at neighborhood relocation plans, Ethan shares what he has learned about friendship, family life, and keeping Christ at the center. His story is a reminder that community is not just built but lived with sacrifice, humor, and faith.

What’s in this episode:

• Ethan’s journey from engineering graduate to FOCUS missionary
• The lessons of leading Bible studies at Tulsa during the pandemic
• Why building a Catholic community in post-college life feels harder
• The shift from man-made plans to parish-centered community in Wichita
• How intergenerational Catholic life fosters deeper belonging
• The importance of ordinary, unplanned interactions in true friendship
• Why comedy has a role in evangelization and community building
• The story of starting a Catholic podcast with Patrick Neve
• One resource every Catholic family should know: The Fulfillment of All Desire by Ralph Martin (plus The Father of the Little Flower & The Mother of the Little Flower)
• Book he’s currently reading: Letters and diaries of St. Thérèse’s parents, Louis and Zélie Martin
• Favorite book: The Fulfillment of All Desire by Ralph Martin
• Advice to his younger self: Read more great books and watch less TV
• Final wisdom for listeners: Community thrives on communication and courage

Resources Mentioned:

Bropostles Podcast – Ethan and Patrick’s long-running Catholic comedy podcast