Empowering the Next Generation of Preachers

This week on the Attentive Heart Podcast, host Fr. John Gribowich sits down with Susan McGurgan, a high school educator, theologian, and spiritual formation leader. They unpack what it means to train teenagers to tell their faith stories—and why that matters more than ever in a noisy, digital-first world.

Their conversation dives into:

How storytelling helps teens find their voice
The neuroscience of preaching and narrative memory
Why Eucharistic adoration is the antidote to digital distraction
The evolving meaning of “evangelization” in a postmodern age
Susan’s own powerful moment of personal transformation

Whether you're a teacher, parent, youth minister, or just someone curious about how to reach young people with authenticity and love—this episode offers deep inspiration and actionable insight.

About the Guest: Susan McGurgan

Susan is a spiritual educator and researcher who bridges neuroscience, youth formation, and Catholic preaching. A recipient of the Lilly Endowment Compelling Preaching Grant, she works closely with high school students to help them explore and share their faith through lived testimony. Susan's work blends tradition with innovation—offering new ways for young people to encounter Christ in the everyday.

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