Charisms for Catholics

In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," Jill Simons explores the question, "Is identity always linear?"
Drawing on insightful analogies between identity formation and physical fitness, Jill discusses how investing in your spiritual life can help you maintain and grow your sense of identity, but also acknowledges that setbacks and non-linear progress are common. She examines how personal struggles or injustices can impact our sense of self, the ongoing need for healing, and the vital role of divine grace in our journeys.
Whether you're moving steadily forward or experiencing detours, you'll find encouragement and practical wisdom for embracing and strengthening your identity in Christ!
00:57 - Comparing Identity to Physical Fitness
02:15 - Exceptions and Nonlinear Identity Journeys
03:32 - Building "Mental Hygiene" for Identity Maintenance
04:09 - The Limitlessness of Growth in Identity
05:14 - How Pain and Injustice Affect Identity
12:45 - Encouragement for Continuing Your Identity Journey
Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of "Charisms for Catholics," host Jill Simons explores the essential role that coaches and volunteers play in making charism discernment accessible within the Church!
She delves into the different programs offered by Many Parts Ministries, from entry-level study groups to comprehensive volunteer and coach certifications, all designed to equip individuals to accompany others through their discernment journey. Jill also shares her personal experience in developing these resources, emphasizing the importance of local leadership and one-on-one accompaniment to help people identify their spiritual gifts.
This episode also highlights how you can get involved, whether by becoming trained leaders or by advocating for charism discernment programs within their own parishes!
01:03 — Launch of "What You Carry" Study: Entry-Level Accompaniment
02:50 — Volunteer Training Programs and Small Group Accompaniment
04:16 — Jill Simons' Personal Journey: Learning and Informal Charism Accompaniment
06:44 — Impact and Role of Volunteers in Local Communities
10:04 — Volunteer Accompaniment Training Program Overview
11:13 — Spiritual Director and Coach Certification Program
14:51 — Benefits for Spiritual Directors and Coaches: Practical Application
16:14 — Grassroots Parish Engagement and Impact


Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, host Jill Simons is joined by Ginny Kochis, a neurodivergent parent coach and author, to discuss how the Church can better understand and welcome neurodivergent individuals!
Ginny shares her personal journey as a mother navigating her children's diverse neurological needs, the gifts neurodivergent people bring to faith communities, and practical ways Catholic parishes can create more inclusive spaces. Together, they reflect on the importance of identity in Christ, overcoming judgment, and celebrating the unique contributions of all members of the Body of Christ. Ginny also introduces her book, "Quirky Catholic: Navigating Neurodivergence with Faith and Joy," which lifts up saints who displayed neurodivergent traits and offers encouragement for families seeking holiness in every circumstance!
00:18 — Introducing Ginny Kochis: Neurodivergent Parent Coach  
01:26 — Navigating Unexpected Parenting Challenges  
02:53 — Processing Diagnosis and Grief  
04:43 — Supporting Other Moms in Catholic Spaces  
07:02 — Unique Strengths of Neurodivergent Children  
13:39 — Overcoming Judgment and Embracing Accommodations  
23:10 — Saints as Models for Neurodivergent Catholics
Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons shares the story behind the new "Where the Spirit Is" resource, specially designed for prison ministry.
Born from Jill's personal experiences and long-standing passion for charisms, this initiative aims to help incarcerated men and women discover their spiritual gifts and find purpose, even within prison walls. She discusses the challenges of creating an accessible, non-digital assessment tailored for the unique circumstances of incarceration, the desire to serve all denominations, and the hope that this tool will empower both prison ministers and those they serve. 
This episode will encourage you to spread the word, pray for prison ministry, and join the movement to bring the freedom of the Holy Spirit to those most in need!
01:32 - Personal Struggle and the Role of Charisms
02:57 - Inspiration for Prison Ministry Resources
05:15 - Challenges Creating Charism Resources for Prisons
06:47 - Designing Accessible, Paper-Based Assessments
09:02 - Distribution and Application Process
12:46 - The Resource "Where the Spirit Is" and Closing Reflections
Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.

In this episode of Charisms for Catholics, Jill Simons dives deep into the many different lists of charisms or spiritual gifts used across Catholic ministries!
Drawing on her experience at Many Parts Ministries, Jill compares and contrasts seven popular lists—including biblical sources, the Catherine of Siena Institute's Called and Gifted program, diocesan inventories, and charismatic renewal approaches—to highlight why certain gifts are included or combined, and how these choices shape our understanding of the Holy Spirit's work in the Church. Focusing on clarity and practical discernment, she encourages listeners to find the resources that serve them best, emphasizing that diversity in charism frameworks is both expected and valuable within the Body of Christ.
Whether you're new to charism discernment or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode provides a thoughtful look at how different models can help you discover and live out your God-given gifts!
00:39 — Introduction to Charism Lists and Models  
03:20 — Overview of Seven Popular Charism Lists  
04:49 — Distinguishing Isaiah Gifts from Charisms  
06:02 — Grouping of Charisms: Romans and Corinthians  
10:25 — Comparison with Catherine of Siena Institute's 24 Charisms  
12:13— Diocese of Cleveland's Parish-Focused Charism List  
22:01— Digital Communications and Contemporary Charisms
Learn more about charisms and charism discernment at https://manypartsministries.com.