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This mini-blog series will help you write your testimony, gain confidence in your delivery, break down common mindset barriers (get out of your head!), and gain inspiration from the saints.
Part 1: The Why and The How
Part 2: Practical Tips
Part 3: Mindset Roadblocks
Part 4: Facing Fears with the Saints
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7 Practical Tips
1. Keep it concise
Tell your story in 2-3 minutes in casual conversations, or 5-7 minutes for deeper sharing.
In order to keep it concise, make sure you take time beforehand to think through the most important points.
2. Be authentic and (appropriately) vulnerable
People connect with real, honest stories! Tell your story like you would tell any other story over the dinner table.
If your story involves something particularly painful or difficult, make sure you’re sharing it in an appropriate way.
Share a part of your story from your past, not your present. This gives you some space to see the full story arc and resolution, and to receive healing for any painful parts of the story.
Do your own heart work first before sharing it with others!
3. Know your audience
You might emphasize different aspects of your story, depending on the faith history of your listener.
— When sharing with Catholic peers, you might include common struggles such as lukewarm faith, fear of confession, or getting distracted during Mass.
— Non-Catholics may relate more to universal truths (such as seeking purpose, joy, or peace). Share how Jesus fulfills these desires for you.
Be sure to also explain any specifically Catholic parts of your story (such as the Eucharist) simply and personally, to make your story clear and understandable.
4. Resist perfection
Don’t get hung up on telling it “perfectly” or the “right” way. We’ll discuss more mindset blocks in part 3.
Most people prefer listening to stories (in all their messiness) over a spotless, recited sermon. I know I do!
5. Use “I” statements
You’re not providing a theological dissertation, you’re just sharing an experience of how God is working in your life.
People might argue about the fine points of theology, but they can’t deny your personal experience.
The goal isn’t to force a conversion, either way. The goal is to begin a conversation and continue a relationship.
6. Pray for opportunities
Ask the Holy Spirit to:
–guide you to people who need to hear your story
— give you the courage and grace to respond
— help you trust that he will give you the words they need to hear.
7. Make it a conversation
Listen to their story, and ask questions about their experience. Let them witness to you, too!
Paschal Disciples 