The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Feeling like God isn't speaking? Discover two crucial questions to enhance your prayer life: "What am I looking for?" and "What am I listening for?" Dive into Ignatian spirituality and learn to connect with God using your imagination and senses. This approach offers a fresh perspective, transforming your spiritual practice and helping you find divine presence in everyday moments.

As Holy Week unfolds, the importance of being present with Jesus takes center stage. Fr. Mike Schmitz encourages listeners to pause and reflect, emphasizing that Jesus seeks our presence rather than perfection. He navigates the message of companionship during trials, spotlighting the comfort found in shared moments, especially in the Garden of Gethsemane. This transformative time invites all to deepen their connection and journey alongside Jesus.

Explore the intriguing contrast between miracles in biblical times and today. Discover the rigorous validation process miracles undergo within the Catholic Church. Delve into the deeper meaning of miracles—not just as answers to prayers, but as opportunities for spiritual growth and connection. Fr. Mike Schmitz invites listeners to reflect on their faith and the nature of divine intervention.

Discover the significance of Sunday Mass in the Catholic faith and why intentionally missing it can lead to serious consequences. Learn about the process of seeking a dispensation when you have valid reasons for absence. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of respectful communication with your priest and maintaining a loyal relationship with God, while recognizing that missing Mass shouldn't become a regular habit. The guidance provided is both thought-provoking and grounded in tradition.

Explore the profound transformative power of baptism as a key to entering God's Kingdom of light. Fr. Mike delves into the essential role of the Holy Spirit in affirming faith in Jesus. Discover why baptism is crucial for freeing future generations, offering them new life and hope. Reflect on the choice between being a child of light or a child of darkness, emphasizing the urgency of embracing this sacrament.

What does holiness really look like? It's not a flawless journey; struggles and setbacks are part of the path. Fr. Mike discusses how even saints faced challenges, inviting us to embrace our own imperfections. He emphasizes that God's grace and mercy are always present, providing hope amidst our failures. Reflecting on St. Augustine's life, listeners are encouraged to seek renewal and strength in their pursuit of holiness.

Explore the sacredness of language and its moral implications. Delve into the nuances of cursing and blasphemy, emphasizing how words reflect our hearts. Discover the importance of avoiding foul language and the cultural contexts that shape our expressions. Fr. Mike presents insightful thoughts on how language connects to faith and morality.

Discover whether to give up something for Lent or take on new challenges. Explore the power of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving to deepen your connection with God. Fr. Mike introduces a revolutionary idea: engage in acts with zero self-benefit. Reflect on the spiritual significance of sacrifice this season, and how meaningful choices can lead to true transformation and a closer relationship with Christ.

Navigating wedding attendance can be tricky for practicing Catholics. Fr. Mike discusses the guiding principles of Catholic doctrine regarding weddings and when it's appropriate to attend. He emphasizes the balance between personal convictions and mutual respect amidst differing beliefs. The tension around attending same-sex weddings is also explored, highlighting the challenges believers face in today's societal landscape. Discover the importance of discipleship to Jesus while making tough decisions about relationships and cultural expectations.

Exploring feelings of abandonment, the discussion emphasizes Jesus’ cry of despair on the cross. Listeners are encouraged to confront their own struggles while realizing that God's presence remains unwavering. It challenges transactional faith views, promoting a deeper connection built on love and comfort. Despite suffering, hope shines through as faith reassures that you're never truly alone.