Helping each listener to draw near to Christ, his infinite love, and to one another.
At Draw Near, we explore the beautiful truth that God, out of His deep and personal love for each of us, takes the first step to draw near. But this divine movement calls for a response—a response that shapes our lives and transforms our hearts. Together, we embark on this journey of faith, discovering the many ways God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit work within us.
Rooted in the Catholic faith, our podcast is a space where authenticity meets joy. We’re two best friends navigating life, family, and faith with honesty, humility, and a lot of love. Each episode is a heartfelt conversation—sometimes deep, sometimes lighthearted, but always real. We strive to be vulnerable, faithful, and passionate, sharing insights and stories to inspire you on your path toward Christ.
This is more than a podcast; it’s a shared journey toward sainthood. So come laugh with us, reflect with us, and grow with us as we Draw Near to God and one another. Let’s set out together on this adventure of faith, friendship, and grace.
Listen below to the most RECENT EPISODE:
Advent Reflection: Already… and Not Yet
In this Lectio Divina Advent Reflection, Fred and Kara talk about preparing for the coming of Jesus! He was born of a virgin so has ALREADY come. BUT also... not YET, because Jesus will come again. Are we preparing ourselves for Jesus to return? What if Jesus returned tomorrow? Are you ready?
An Inside look at our Catholic Friendship: Fred and Kara Interview one another
In this fun light-hearted episode of the Draw Near Catholic podcast, hosts, Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell decided to interview one another and give listeners an inside look at our Catholic friendship. There are serious faith-driven questions as well as goofy opinion questions. Grab some coffee and join us as friends, as you listen to this highly caffeinated interview episode of Draw Near!
No Longer Slaves
We LOVE recording and playing music. Please enjoy this cover of "No Longer Slaves" by Bethel Music that Fred and Kara recorded.
God’s Ways are Desert Ways
We speak with guest, Catholic speaker, author, and podcaster, Sonja Corbitt! This episode unpacks some content in her book, "Just Rest." God's ways are ALWAYS desert ways. He shows us this throughout the Scriptures, specifically through the Exodus.
God wants to bring us to the promised land! But before the promised land comes the desert. There are lessons to be learned and "dew" to be given within the desert. Listen to this episode to hear this in depth discussion of "Just Rest" and some profound experiences of Fred and Kara in reading this book.
What Am I Supposed to Do?
With guest-Sister Fidelis Marie, we talk about living holiness in our every day lives. It's easy to get bogged down discerning the future options, vocations, or the many choices placed in front of us. Sister Fidelis gives wonderful, spiritually balanced, guidance on discerning where God calls us.
Virtuous Friendship
We have many "friends," or more accurately, "best acquaintances," but we often lack the meaningful relationships; the friendships we long for that are characterized by love, vulnerability, mutual encouragement and accountability. What does friendship look like? Find out on this episode of Draw Near as Fred and Kara discuss all of this and share from their own close friendship!