Digital entertainment and methods of learning or engaging virtually have grown exponentially during the ongoing pandemic. Conversations while catching up on platforms like FaceTime, Google Duo or Zoom might include questions about new podcasts or what friends and family have been listening to.
There’s a new entry in the world of podcasts this fall: The just-released “Created & Called.”
Produced by the Vocation Office of the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland, “Created & Called” seeks to encourage a culture of vocations by sharing stories. Every other Wednesday, a new episode is released. A panel of hosts takes listeners along as they share their personal vocation journey or interview a guest on their vocational path.
“Our hope is that this podcast will be a source of inspiration to everyone,” said Maggie Zbiegien, vocation office program coordinator. “Vocations beget vocations and so we felt it was important to share the stories of those in all vocations, not just priesthood. Our vocations are meant to be complementary and we can learn something from the experience of others. We hope that through the sharing of these stories we can encourage support for and appreciation of all vocations.”
In the first episode of “Created & Called,” Father Mike McCandless, vocation office director, shares the podcast’s vision and how the concept was launched, as well as his own vocation experience. He introduces four additional hosts who recall memories and pivotal moments in their lives that helped grow their vocations. The hosts will rotate and interview guests during the yearlong series.
“Building a culture of vocation is a multi-faceted approach,” McCandless said, “and audio is the most accessible way to reach a wide audience within our diocese and beyond. We want ‘Created & Called’ to provide a year of content that inspires, motivates our listeners and encourages action and/or reflection from the witness our hosts and guests provide.”
Bishop Edward Malesic will be the guest on the second episode that will drop on Oct. 28. Future guests include Sister Kelley Rush, SND; Cary Dabney, director of the diocesan Office of Ministry to African American Catholics; Father David Bline, spiritual director of Saint Mary Seminary; Jen Ricard, executive director of Theology of the Body Cleveland, and her husband Frank; and seminarian Sean Neville.
“Created & Called” is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Stitcher. For the most up-to-date topic and guest information, follow the podcast on Facebook and Instagram (@CreatedAndCalledPodcast).