Higher Ground by Elevated Parish Missions
Welcome to Higher Ground, the ultimate podcast by Elevated Parish Missions that takes you on a captivating journey through the Catholic Faith! 🌟 Each episode is packed with fresh insights and perspectives, transforming familiar topics into eye-opening discussions. While we rarely feature guests, our focus is on delivering powerful content that sparks reflection and inspires action.
At the end of every episode, you'll receive a practical call to action, empowering you to weave the discussed themes into your daily life. 🎧 Tune in for thought-provoking conversations that elevate your spiritual journey and help you reach for Higher Ground. Don't miss out on this enriching experience!
Episodes
59 episodes
"Signs" of the Spirit
SummaryIn this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the essence of the Holy Spirit as shown through the rich symbolism of wind, fire, and the dove. It emphasizes how these symbols deepen our unders...
Unlocking the Holy Spirit
Summary:In this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound significance of the sacrament of Confirmation, emphasizing its role as a "spiritual charger" that empowers Catholics to live out th...
The Hidden Depths of Mother's Day
Summary:In this episode of "Higher Ground", Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the significance of Mother's Day from personal, spiritual, and historical perspectives. It highlights the deep love and sacrifice of mothers, the spiri...
The Significance of First Communion and Eucharist
SummaryOn this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound significance of First Communion, its connection to the wedding sacrament, and ways to deepen our spiritual union with Christ through the Euch...
How Social Media is Revitalizing Catholic Faith Among Young Adults
SummaryIn this inspiring episode, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough interview Brian’s nephew, Chase Hough, about his Catholic social media ministry “Chase Follows Christ”. Chase shares his faith journey from a casual Catholic upbri...
The Queen and Warrior: Unveiling Mary's Spiritual Authority
SummaryMartin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound role of Our Lady as Queen, Mother, and Warrior, emphasizing her spiritual authority, historical significance, and how to deepen devotion through meaningful practices like May ...
Transforming Family Life Through Consecration
SummaryIn this enlightening conversation, Scott Anthony, the manager of ministries at the Apostolate for Family Consecration, discusses the importance of family consecration to Jesus through Mary and St. Joseph. The dialogue explores...
Divine Mercy: A Gift Beyond Measure
Summary:In this episode of Higher Ground, Brian and Martin delve into the themes of mercy, forgiveness, and trust, focusing on Divine Mercy Sunday. They discuss biblical parables, share personal insights, and offer practical steps fo...
Easter Hope: Transforming Daily Life Through the Resurrection
Summary: In this episode of "Higher Ground", Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore how the hope of the resurrection can ignite daily transformation in one's life and community. They discuss the profound impact of Easter on personal f...
Trust and Transformation at the Cross: Unpacking the Last Words of Christ
Summary:In this episode of "Higher Ground", Martin Watjen and Brian Hough unpack the deep theological insights behind Jesus' final words on the cross, focusing on trust, sacrifice, and the new covenant. They explore the spiritual ...
"I Thirst": Embracing Vulnerability
SummaryIn this episode, Martin and Brian reflect on the profound significance of Jesus' words, "I thirst," exploring themes of vulnerability, the human need for connection, and maintaining spiritual health as leaders and fathers. ...
Hope in Suffering
SummaryIn this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough delve into the profound meaning behind Jesus's cry on the cross, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken Me?" It explores how this moment, rooted in Psalm...
Devotion to Mary: A Daily Practice
SummaryIn this episode, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the significance of family and devotion in the context of Jesus' last words, particularly focusing on the relationship between Mary and John. They discuss the importan...
Finding Paradise in Everyday Life
SummaryIn this episode of Higher Ground, Brian Hough and Martin Watjen explore the concept of paradise, both in personal experiences and in the context of scripture. They discuss the importance of faith in daily life, the role of fat...
Christ's Example: A Call to Forgive
SummaryIn this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the theme of forgiveness as they enter the Lenten season. They discuss the significance of Christ's words from the cross, emphasizing the importance o...
Transforming Lent: From Dread to Joy
SummaryIn this episode, Brian Hough and Martin Watjen explore the meaning and purpose of Lent, challenging the traditional views of self-denial and drudgery. They emphasize the importance of understanding the 'why' behind Lent, e...
Beyond Chocolates: The Real Labor of Love
SummaryIn this conversation, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the deeper meaning of love, particularly in the context of Valentine's Day. They discuss how love is often portrayed as a simple act of giving gifts, but true love re...
Presenting Ourselves as a Witness of Faith
SummaryIn this episode of Higher Ground, hosts Brian Hough and Martin Watjen explore the deep-rooted traditions of Western Pennsylvania, particularly focusing on Groundhog Day and its surprising connections to the Catholic Church. Th...
Embracing New Beginnings in Life
SummaryIn this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough discuss the significance of new beginnings in life, faith, and family. They reflect on the March for Life, the importance of inviting God into our new starts, and...
The Hidden Importance of Minor Characters
SummaryIn this episode of Higher Ground, Brian Hough and Martin Watjen explore the significance of minor characters in the Christmas story, reflecting on their roles and the lessons they impart. They discuss the feelings of insignifi...
The Beauty of Ordinary Time
SummaryIn this episode, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough discuss the challenges and joys of daily life, particularly during the gloomy winter months. They explore the significance of ordinary time in the church calendar, emphasizing...
The Journey of the Wise Men
SummaryIn this episode of Higher Ground, Brian Hough and Martin Watjen explore the themes of cultural heritage, family gatherings, and the significance of the Epiphany. They discuss how the journey of the wise men symbolizes the ...
Embracing the Winter Chill: A Spiritual Reflection
SummaryIn this episode, Martin and Brian discuss the transition from the festive excitement of Christmas to the post-holiday reality. They reflect on the significance of Christmas traditions, the importance of delayed gratificati...
Advent Week #4: The Heart of Christmas: Love Unveiled
SummaryIn this final episode of the Advent series, Brian Hough and Martin Watjen explore the theme of love as the culmination of their journey through hope, peace, and joy. They delve into the different meanings of love, particularly...
Advent Week #3: Shepherds: Models of Joyful Mission
SummaryIn this episode, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound connection between Christian joy and the act of sharing the gospel. They discuss how joy is not merely an emotion but a result of actively participating in Go...