Draw Near Blog
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Kate Boyce
Guest Contributor
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EmmaLee Miklosovic
Guest Contributor
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Fr Patrick Behm
Guest Contributor
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Toni Hendricks
Guest Contributor
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Phillip Grothus
Guest Contributor
The Cost of Discipleship
What does Jesus mean when he says we must take up our cross and follow him? Reflecting on the call to costly discipleship, this reflection explores surrender, sacrifice, and the surprising truth that we only find life when we give it away.
If you’re going to journal… you might as well enjoy it!
Here are some of my favorite journals (and writing essentials) to help you slow down and look forward to this time with God!
It’s Just a Bowl
What started as concern for a discarded baptismal font became a powerful reminder that even good and holy things should never eclipse the true heart of the Catholic faith: Jesus in the Eucharist.
30 Tips to Help and Encourage Catechists
Whether you're a new or seasoned catechist, these 30 practical tips will help you deepen your relationship with Christ, connect with your students, and approach catechesis with renewed confidence and purpose.
Handling Hidden Criticism with a Christlike Heart
Few things hurt more than having your motives questioned or your efforts criticized. Discover a biblical approach to handling criticism without losing your peace.
Drop the Net and Come After Me
What nets are you still carrying? Drawing on Jesus' call to the first disciples, this reflection explores the distractions, fears, and attachments that can keep us from fully following Christ—and the freedom that comes when we finally let them go.
In the Name of Jesus: The Call to Lead with Love
Many ministry leaders feel exhausted by the pressure to perform, grow programs, and keep everyone happy. This reflection offers a Gospel-centered path to leading with greater peace, purpose, and love.
Why People Serve: Creating a Ministry Culture That Lasts
People rarely commit long-term because they are needed; they commit because they believe in the mission. Learn how a clear sense of purpose transforms parish ministry and volunteer culture.
Why “Motivating” People in Ministry Doesn’t Work and What Does
People are more likely to serve when they feel called than when they feel needed. Learn how parish leaders can invite volunteers into mission rather than obligation.
When Prayer Feels Hopeless—The Rosary is a Lifeline
When every attempt to fix a difficult situation only made it worse, one simple decision—to pray the Rosary—became an unexpected lesson in surrender, peace, and trusting God.
Nothing is Gonna Ever Keep You Down
A simple gesture from a son after Communion became a powerful reminder that God's grace is still at work, even when we feel like we are falling short.
Beyond Comfort: The Challenge and Promise of True Trust
What happens when our trust is rooted in success, comfort, or human strength rather than God? This reflection on the Beatitudes explores the challenge—and freedom—of placing our hope fully in Christ.
The Cross Isn’t the End of the Story: Holding Onto Hope in Grief
How do we hold onto faith when suffering seems to bring no visible fruit? Drawing from personal loss, Scripture, and the wisdom of the saints, this reflection explores Christian hope in the midst of grief.
"Jesus Loved Without Walls: Will You?"
In a world that encourages self-protection and emotional distance, Jesus offers a radically different path: to love openly, vulnerably, and without walls.
When "I Am Praying for You" Isn't Enough
"I'm praying for you" is a beautiful promise—but when someone is hurting, they may need more than your prayers. They may need your presence.
Finding Peace in the Arms of Our Lady
What does it mean to call Mary "Mother"? This personal reflection explores a profound encounter with Our Lady's peace, comfort, and guidance in a season of burnout and uncertainty.
More Than Words: The Heart of Prayer
Are the Rosary, Divine Mercy Chaplet, and other memorized prayers just "vain repetition"? Jesus' words in Matthew 6 reveal that the real issue is not repetition, but the condition of the heart.
Feeling Stuck?
Have you ever felt like God was distant or silent? This reflection explores how seasons of spiritual dryness may actually be invitations to deeper trust and greater faith
Can I Kick It?
What if every friendship was an opportunity to encounter Christ? This reflection explores how seeing God in others can transform the way we view relationships and community.
Four People You Need In Your Life
The Apostle Paul's life reveals four kinds of people every Christian needs: a Paul, a Timothy, a Barnabas, and a Silas. Which ones are missing from your life?