
The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast
Faith, pop culture, and headline reflections from Fr. Mike Schmitz.
Latest episodes

8 snips
May 22, 2025 • 6min
Fr. Mike's Thoughts on Babies Crying
Explore the profound meaning behind a baby's cry as an expression of trust and faith. Fr. Mike discusses how these cries symbolize a reliance on others for comfort, drawing a parallel to our own prayers to God in times of distress. Listen to personal stories that highlight the emotional significance of both joy and sorrow in life. Gain insights into how acknowledging our needs can deepen our spiritual connection and encourage us to reach out for help.

May 15, 2025 • 7min
How the Holy Spirit Guides the Election of the Pope
How does the Holy Spirit guide the Church when a new pope is chosen?
Fr. Mike explains the unique relationship between divine guidance and human decision-making in the papal election. Though the process can be slow, complicated, and even filled with disagreement, the Holy Spirit is still powerfully at work—just as He is in our everyday lives.
To learn more about Pope Leo XIV, pre-order your copy of, "When the White Smoke Clears": https://ascensionpress.com/products/when-the-white-smoke-clears-a-guide-to-the-early-days-of-pope-leo-xiv?_kx=03d8RdkdWYsj7Js0fI-L2sXIJR08xnuhKbFd2znlNmDo1V-4EAF588_SwY55rxnO.TcpZhHSupport The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

May 13, 2025 • 8min
We’ve Got a New Pope! What’s Next?
Habemus Papam! We have a Pope — Pope Leo XIV!
On this joyous occasion, Fr. Mike encourages us to welcome Pope Leo XIV with open hearts. He reminds us that before forming opinions or drawing comparisons to past popes, we should first offer him the respect, trust, and prayers he deserves as our Holy Father.
To learn more about Pope Leo XIV, pre-order your copy of, "When the White Smoke Clears": https://ascensionpress.com/products/when-the-white-smoke-clears-a-guide-to-the-early-days-of-pope-leo-xiv?_kx=03d8RdkdWYsj7Js0fI-L2sXIJR08xnuhKbFd2znlNmDo1V-4EAF588_SwY55rxnO.TcpZhH
Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at https://www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour!
May 19 - Washington, D.C.
May 20 - Philadelphia, PA
May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT]
May 22 - Nashville, TNSupport The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

4 snips
May 8, 2025 • 7min
How I Handle Haters
Discover valuable insights on how to gracefully handle criticism. The discussion reveals three key responses: denial, acceptance, and gratitude. Learn to discern the truth in criticism, embrace it for personal growth, and let go of unfounded remarks. With relatable analogies, the conversation emphasizes that criticism can serve as a powerful tool for self-reflection and development. Tune in for a refreshing perspective on turning negative feedback into positive change!

May 7, 2025 • 1min
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 9
Discover the power of collective prayer as listeners join a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. The focus is on seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance for the Cardinals, urging unity within the Church. Insightful reflections on faith, hope, and the qualities we desire in a new Pope are explored. As the climax of this journey unfolds, heartfelt prayers are lifted for the Cardinals to embody wisdom and courage in their pivotal decision-making. Join this meaningful spiritual exploration and feel the connection to the broader Church community.

May 6, 2025 • 1min
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 8
In this heartfelt discussion, listeners join in a powerful novena, praying for the Cardinals as they prepare for the Papal Conclave. The focus is on seeking divine guidance and wisdom for the leaders of the Church. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of a compassionate Pope, who leads with profound faith and hope. The prayer calls upon the Holy Spirit and the intercession of Mary and the saints, creating a collective yearning for a shepherd that will draw the faithful closer to God.

May 5, 2025 • 1min
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 7
Join in a novena as the community prays for the Cardinal electors during the Papal Conclave. Each day's focus is on seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit, emphasizing trust in God. The heartfelt prayers ask for wisdom, courage, and hope for those making crucial decisions. A shared invocation highlights the need for a new Pope to lead the Church with profound faith and love, aiming to renew believers' spirits and strengthen their connection to God.

May 4, 2025 • 1min
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 6
Explore the spiritual journey of the sixth day of a novena, focusing on prayer and support for the upcoming papal conclave. Delve into St. Paul's encouraging words about perseverance and the importance of trusting the Holy Spirit. Reflect on how these teachings guide the Church during this pivotal moment.

May 3, 2025 • 1min
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 5
Discover the power of prayer in a spiritual novena focused on the papal conclave. This engaging discussion highlights prayers for divine guidance and insights for the cardinals involved in selecting the next pope. Listeners are invited to reflect on traditional prayers and a thought-provoking Psalm reading. Tune in for a moment of spiritual renewal and thoughtful contemplation as you join in this meaningful journey.

May 2, 2025 • 2min
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 4
Discover the power of collective prayer as it highlights the significance of seeking divine guidance for the cardinals during the papal conclave. A heartfelt prayer invocation sets the tone, while a Gospel reading reinforces the importance of discernment and wisdom. Tune in to feel inspired by the hopeful message of faith as the Church prepares to select its next leader.