The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Day 228: Blessings, Sacramentals and Popular Piety (2024)

Aug 15, 2024

Explore the fascinating world of sacramentals and blessings that elevate faith in the Catholic tradition. Discover how these sacred signs, including exorcisms, create powerful connections to the spiritual realm. Delve into the enriching role of popular piety practices, like the Rosary, and their relationship with the liturgy. Understand the significance of blessings in daily life and community. Finally, consider how these elements enhance the overall experience of Catholic spirituality and the celebration of Mass.

22:45

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Quick takeaways

Sacramentals, such as blessings and holy water, play a crucial role in sanctifying lives and preparing individuals for the sacraments.

Popular piety practices, like the Rosary, enhance spiritual life but should always align with and not replace the liturgical experience.

Deep dives

Understanding Sacramentals

Sacramentals are sacred signs instituted by the Church that resemble sacraments and signify spiritual effects attained through the Church's intercession. They play a vital role in sanctifying various moments in life and preparing individuals to receive the grace of the sacraments. Specific examples of sacramentals include actions like the laying on of hands, the sign of the cross, and the sprinkling of holy water, which ties back to the significance of baptism. These rituals not only evoke the grace of sacraments but also honor the Christian’s call to participate in their spiritual priesthood.

Intro

2min

Understanding the Role of Sacramentals in Christian Life

2min

The Power of Sacramentals and Blessings

12min

The Purpose of Blessings and the Role of Exorcism in Faith

4min

The Relationship Between Popular Piety and Liturgical Participation

3min

Sacramentals are sacred signs that resemble the sacraments. Blessings of people, places, and objects are foremost among the various sacramentals found in the life of the Church. Among these blessings are those of exorcism, in both its simple and solemn form. Fr. Mike notes that sacramentals and the many forms of popular piety, such as the Rosary, are noble expressions of faith that prepare us to participate in the Liturgy but can never replace the Liturgy. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1667-1679.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

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