Episode 14 – Faith Outside the Church Walls

Episode 19: What Happens When We Keep Showing Up?

What happens when we faithfully answer God's invitation to the Mass—not just once, but week after week? In this episode of Just An Average Catholic, we continue our journey by exploring the "Where" and the "When" of the Mass. While the obvious answers may be our parish church and Sunday, we'll discover that God's invitation reaches far beyond a building and far beyond a single hour each week. Drawing on Jesus' words in John 6:56, the example of the early Church in Acts 2:42, and Christ's invitation to friendship in John 15:15, we'll reflect on how faithfully "showing up" allows God to transform our lives in ways we often don't recognize until we look back. Along the way, I'll share how attending Mass led me to lifelong friendships, a deeper love of Scripture through Come, Lord Jesus!, and a life of service with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul—relationships and opportunities I never could have planned for myself. The Mass is more than an obligation. It's an invitation. An encounter. A community. And the beginning of a lifelong journey with Christ. Join me as we discover what really happens when we keep showing up. If this episode encouraged you, please follow the podcast, share it with someone who may need to hear it, and consider leaving a rating or review. Your support helps more people discover that holiness isn't reserved for the extraordinary—it's the daily calling of every Just An Average Catholic.

Episode 18 - Why the Mass Matters: Rediscovering the Gift of the Holy Eucharist

Why do Catholics go to Mass? For many people, Mass can begin to feel routine. Some say they don't get anything out of it. Others struggle with busy schedules, disagreements with a priest, or the belief that watching online is enough. But what if we've forgotten what the Mass truly is—and more importantly, Who is waiting for us there? In this episode of Just An Average Catholic, Michael Champagne explores the profound gift of the Holy Eucharist and why the Mass is far more than an obligation. Drawing from Scripture, Catholic teaching, and personal experience, he reflects on Christ's invitation to encounter Him through His Word, His sacrifice, and His Real Presence in the Eucharist. Together, we'll examine common reasons people drift away from Mass, the unique role of in-person worship, and the extraordinary privilege Catholics have of receiving the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ in Holy Communion. If you've ever wondered why the Mass matters—or if your appreciation for the Eucharist needs renewing—this episode is for you. "The Mass isn't something we watch. It's something we enter into." Scripture References: • John 6:53-54 • Luke 22:19-20 • Luke 24:31 • Psalm 34:8 Thank you for listening to Just An Average Catholic. If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend and help others rediscover the gift of the Eucharist. Your support helps more people discover that holiness isn't reserved for the extraordinary—it's the daily calling of every Just An Average Catholic.

Episode 17 - Have We Traded Eternal Treasures for Temporary Ones?

In this heartfelt episode of Just An Average Catholic, Michael Champagne explores a question that touches countless Catholic families: what happens when loved ones walk away from the faith? Whether you're a parent grieving the loss of your child's connection to the Church, a grandparent longing to share your faith with your grandchildren, or someone who has drifted away from Catholicism yourself, this episode offers a message of hope, compassion, and invitation—not judgment. Michael reflects on the modern pursuit of success, wealth, and status, and asks an important question: Are we investing as much energy into our souls as we are into our careers, possessions, and personal ambitions? Through personal reflection, Scripture, and the inspiring example of Saint Monica and her son, Saint Augustine, this episode examines the difference between the earthly spoils our culture encourages us to pursue and the spiritual treasures that truly endure. No matter how far we've wandered—or how long we've been praying for someone we love—God never stops pursuing His children. In this episode, you'll discover: * Why many people gradually drift away from the faith * The difference between earthly success and spiritual fulfillment * How parents and grandparents can respond with love, patience, and prayer * The power of faithful witness and persistent prayer * Why it's never too late to turn back toward God Featured Scripture: * Matthew 6:19–21 — Treasures in Heaven * Mark 10:17–22 — The Rich Young Man * James 1:17 — Every good and perfect gift is from above * 1 Timothy 6:7 — We brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it If this episode speaks to your heart, please share it with someone you love—especially someone who may need the reminder that they are missed, they are loved, and it's never too late to come home. Your support helps more people discover that holiness isn't reserved for the extraordinary—it's the daily calling of every Just An Average Catholic. Until next time, keep seeking the spiritual spoils that lead to eternal life. God bless.

Episode 16 - Catholic Marriage: Growing in Holiness Together

In Episode 16 of Just An Average Catholic, Michael Champagne reflects on the beauty, challenges, and spiritual purpose of Catholic marriage and family life in a world that often struggles to understand commitment, sacrifice, and faithfulness. “Catholic Marriage: Growing in Holiness Together” explores how husbands and wives help shape one another through ordinary daily life — not through perfection, but through patience, forgiveness, perseverance, prayer, and love lived out one day at a time. This episode also reflects on the importance of praying together as families, being faithful role models for our children, and encouraging them as they begin navigating their own personal journey of faith and vocation. Through honest conversation and relatable reflections, this episode reminds us that holiness is often built quietly: in our homes, in our marriages, in our families, and in the ordinary moments the world rarely notices. Because sometimes the most meaningful spiritual growth happens through ordinary people striving to walk toward God together. If this episode encouraged you, please follow the podcast, share it with someone who may need to hear it, and consider leaving a rating or review. Your support helps more people discover that holiness isn't reserved for the extraordinary—it's the daily calling of every Just An Average Catholic.

Episode 15 - The People God Places in Our Lives

Some people enter our lives for only a short time… yet leave an impact that lasts forever. In this heartfelt episode of Just An Average Catholic, Michael Champagne reflects on the people God places in our lives — mentors, family members, friends, coworkers, teachers, spiritual guides, and even unexpected strangers whose encouragement, wisdom, and kindness help shape who we become. Through personal stories, Scripture, and honest reflection, Michael explores how God often works through ordinary people in extraordinary ways. This episode is a reminder that even small acts of encouragement, compassion, and presence can leave a lasting mark on someone’s life. The conversation also touches on forgiveness, healing, and learning to trust God through difficult relationships, while ultimately focusing on gratitude for the people who strengthened our faith, character, and journey through life. If you’ve ever looked back and realized certain people appeared in your life exactly when you needed them most, this episode will resonate deeply. Because sometimes the greatest blessings God gives us… are the people He places along our path. Thank you for listening to Just An Average Catholic. If this episode means something to you, please share it with someone who has made a difference in your life.