Higher Ground by Elevated Parish Missions

Send us Fan Mail Episode Description: The next chapter of Higher Ground is here, and it starts with real stories of parish renewal from the front lines. If you care about Catholic evangelization, parish life, or what happens when a community truly encounters Christ, this is the reset episode you need. After 70+ episodes, Martin Watjen & Brian Hough are stepping back to re-center the show aroun...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore with Belinda Terro Mooney (author, coach, and speaker) the intersection of faith and mental health, discussing how spiritual practices and therapeutic lifestyle changes can promote healing and well-being. Belinda emphasizes the importance of understanding the connection between spirituality, genetics, and men...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the powerful story of Saint Monica's relentless prayer for her son, Augustine.  They discuss how her life illustrates the importance of persistent prayer, of continual faith, and of trusting in God's ultimate timing in relation to our spiritual journeys. Key Talking Points: Saint Monica's relen...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the four Marian dogmas of the Catholic Faith.  They delve into the significance of each and how they deepen our understanding of Jesus and Mary. They also discuss how the truths contained therein provide a wonderful foundation upon which to build our spiritual lives as well as give us encouragement in...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound Biblical event of the Transfiguration of Jesus, its significance, and how it offers us perspective and hope in our daily lives. Join them as they unpack this pivotal moment and its relevance to today. Key topics The Biblical account of the Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36). The significance...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Brian Hough and Martin Wajten explore the profound importance of friendship, community, and authentic relationships in our lives. They share personal stories, Biblical insights, and practical tips on fostering meaningful connections that enrich our spiritual and emotional well-being. Key topics The significance of friendship and community...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound impact of grandparents and elders in shaping family legacy and community culture. They discuss how intergenerational connections and shared wisdom can build resilient, faith-filled families and parishes. Key Topics The role of grandparents in passing down faith and values. The impact of i...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound significance of physical sacramentals in the Catholic faith, including the brown scapular, holy water, and the power of touch in healing. They discuss how these tangible objects and actions deepen our spiritual connection with the Lord and serve as reminders of our devotion to Christ and...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode, Martin and Brian explore the profound truth of God's unconditional love, trust, and humility. They share personal stories, biblical insights, and practical ways to embrace our brokenness and trust in God's plan for our lives. Key topics God's unconditional love and how it transforms lives The importance of trust and surrender in faith Humili...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the meaning of patriotism and the spiritual concept of freedom from a Catholic perspective. They reflect on how faith and patriotism intertwine, especially in the context of America's 250th birthday.  They emphasize that, as we celebrate the freedoms of America, may we also remember to celebrate...

Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin and Brian explore the life of John the Baptist, emphasizing humility, identity in Christ, and the importance of living a life that points others to Jesus. They discuss practical ways to embody these principles in everyday moments.  Tune in and learn how you too can "Prepare the way of the Lord...." Key topics: The signif...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground ,  Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound role of fathers in family and spiritual life.  Their discussion emphasizes the importance of active fatherhood, the impact of father figures on the spiritual walk of their family, and practical ways to reclaim and honor the role of dads today. Key topics The cultural shift in family dyna...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the significance of the Sacred Heart of Jesus as a spiritual stronghold for families.  They explain the importance of this devotion during chaotic times like summer vacations.  Their conversation reviews the related historical context, practical applications to daily life, and how to foster internal a...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore a unique perspective of the Solemnity of Corpus Christi (ie., the Body of Christ).  They discuss how we are called by Christ to be Eucharistic by giving people "something to eat, yourselves".  Through our feeding others in Truth, nourishing others in charity, and being present in our time/ta...

Send us Fan Mail Summary Exploring the profound mystery of the Holy Trinity on Trinity Sunday, this episode of Higher Ground delves into how routine rituals - like the sign of the cross - can deepen our understanding of and relationship with God. Through stories, analogies, and spiritual insights, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough encourage us to move beyond an "autopilot" faith and instead...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the essence of the Holy Spirit as shown through the rich symbolism of wind, fire, and the dove. It emphasizes how these symbols deepen our understanding of the Spirit's ongoing presence, action, and impact in our lives.  It encourages us to invite the Spirit into our hearts daily for inspiration...

Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode of Higher Ground , Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound significance of the sacrament of Confirmation, emphasizing its role as a "spiritual charger" that empowers Catholics to live out their faith boldly. It discusses common misconceptions, the importance of understanding the indelible mark of the Holy Spirit, and practical ways to...

Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode of "Higher Ground", Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the significance of Mother's Day from personal, spiritual, and historical perspectives. It highlights the deep love and sacrifice of mothers, the spiritual symbolism of Mary as the mother of all believers, and practical ways to honor mothers daily.  Listen in, and take your love and a...

Send us Fan Mail Summary On this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound significance of First Communion, its connection to the wedding sacrament, and ways to deepen our spiritual union with Christ through the Eucharist. It emphasizes the importance of preparation, disposition, and ongoing prayer in our faith journey.  Listen in and take your love for the Eucha...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this inspiring episode, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough interview Brian’s nephew, Chase Hough, about his Catholic social media ministry “Chase Follows Christ”.  Chase shares his faith journey from a casual Catholic upbringing to a passionate evangelist using social media to reach young adults. Discover how personal struggles, a call to authenticity, and the power of digit...

Send us Fan Mail Summary Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound role of Our Lady as Queen, Mother, and Warrior, emphasizing her spiritual authority, historical significance, and how to deepen devotion through meaningful practices like May crowning. This discussion highlights the biblical roots, tradition, and practical ways to honor Mary in everyday life. Resources: Apostolate for Fami...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this enlightening conversation, Scott Anthony, the manager of ministries at the Apostolate for Family Consecration, discusses the importance of family consecration to Jesus through Mary and St. Joseph. The dialogue explores the history and mission of the Apostolate, practical steps for families to engage in consecration, and the transformative impact it can have on fami...

Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode of Higher Ground, Brian and Martin delve into the themes of mercy, forgiveness, and trust, focusing on Divine Mercy Sunday. They discuss biblical parables, share personal insights, and offer practical steps for living a life filled with mercy. The episode highlights how divine mercy is a gift often taken for granted and explores the importance of trust in...

Send us Fan Mail Summary: In this episode of "Higher Ground", Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore how the hope of the resurrection can ignite daily transformation in one's life and community. They discuss the profound impact of Easter on personal faith and  relationships with others.  They also recognize how the celebration of Jesus rising from the dead is also a celebration of us...

Send us Fan Mail Summary : In this episode of "Higher Ground", Martin Watjen and Brian Hough unpack the deep theological insights behind Jesus' final words on the cross, focusing on trust, sacrifice, and the new covenant. They explore the spiritual significance of "It is finished" and "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit," offering practical reflections an...