The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Curious about how someone becomes a saint? Discover the fascinating steps and criteria of the canonization process in the Catholic Church. Fr. Mike shares inspiring stories of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, illustrating that sainthood is within reach for anyone who says 'yes' to God. Dive into the journey to holiness and learn that every small response to faith can pave the way to greatness!

Fr. Mike announces an uplifting new podcast focused on serving others. He discusses the importance of engaging in works of mercy, as highlighted in Matthew 25. Listeners are encouraged to explore how individuals today are living out their faith through generosity and service. The conversations aim to inspire a deeper understanding of our shared calling to lead virtuous, Christ-centered lives.

Fr. Mike takes us back in time, reacting to his very first video and sharing the wisdom he's gained over the years. He dives deep into the themes of friendship and love, drawing inspiration from C.S. Lewis. With his signature humor, he discusses the challenges of building authentic connections in today's world. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own relationships and actively nurture them, making this a heartfelt stroll down memory lane.

Silence can be uncomfortable, but it's essential for true growth. The discussion highlights how constant distractions, like media and social scrolling, hinder meaningful engagement with our thoughts. Embracing periods of quiet allows for deeper self-discovery and a clearer connection to spirituality. It's about creating space to hear the voice of God and understanding our own emotions better. Learning to value silence can lead to profound insights and personal reflection.

Ever wondered how realistic those confession scenes in movies are? Fr. Mike hilariously critiques portrayals in popular culture, highlighting inaccuracies and the true essence of confession. He analyzes iconic moments from films like 'A League of Their Own' and 'Seinfeld,' discussing the emotional and comedic aspects of these scenes. The conversation dives into themes of sin, grace, and personal reflection, inviting listeners to rethink their own experiences with confession. It's a thought-provoking and entertaining look at faith through a cinematic lens!

Discover the powerful lessons learned from parental guidance and their lifelong impact on values like love and honesty. Fr. Mike shares heartfelt anecdotes, illustrating how these teachings shaped his virtue-driven journey. He also unveils four transformative words that can change everything: “Trust in the Lord.” Plus, get a sneak peek into his new book, Unshakeable, focusing on finding strength and virtue amid chaos.

Feeling lonely can be daunting, but you're not alone. The discussion emphasizes how loneliness is a universal experience, even for figures like Jesus and St. Paul. It highlights the importance of understanding your feelings, finding comfort in Christ's struggles. Additionally, it encourages reaching out to others with small acts of kindness to combat isolation and build connections, reminding us that we are all in this together.

Feeling swamped but yearning for a spiritual connection? Discover practical strategies for integrating prayer into your hectic life. Fr. Mike emphasizes the significance of having a personalized prayer plan. He poses three essential questions to streamline your practice: Where will you pray? When will you pray? And how will you pray? With these insights, you can maintain a consistent connection with God, no matter how busy life gets.

Exploring Jesus's message on judgment, the discussion emphasizes the difference between discerning right from wrong and condemning others. Self-reflection and humility are key components to understanding this teaching. Listeners are encouraged to approach others with curiosity and compassion, fostering understanding instead of quick judgment. It’s all about balancing accountability with love.

Fr. Mike tackles the idea of no marriage in Heaven and why it doesn’t have to be sad. He explores how the love we share on Earth transforms and deepens in the afterlife. Rather than losing connections, he reassures us that our bonds will flourish. Listeners are reminded that Heaven is not about less love but about experiencing a fuller, richer kind of love.