The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Explore the lives of saints and their profound suffering—was it worth it? Fr. Mike delves into the reality that following Jesus doesn't mean avoiding pain but transforming it. He challenges the myth of prosperity in faith, highlighting that discipleship involves self-denial and taking up your cross. Real-life examples reveal the cost of faith, including lost relationships and extreme persecution. Ultimately, he emphasizes that while suffering is inevitable, Christians can endure it with Christ, finding purpose and grace in their trials.

Fr. Mike Schmitz explores the concept of virtuous friendships and their vital role in our lives. He delves into Aristotle's three types of friendship: utility, pleasure, and virtue, highlighting their significance. Fr. Mike discusses the limitations of utility-based friendships and the joy of pleasant ones. He shares a personal story about his friendship with Nick, illustrating how it evolved into a virtuous bond through shared purpose. Ultimately, he emphasizes how virtuous friends inspire us to pursue greater goals together.

Discover the transformative power of the Liturgy of the Hours, an ancient prayer central to Catholic life. Fr. Mike Schmitz shares his commitment to daily prayer and breaks down its structure, highlighting the significance of each hour throughout the day. Learn how this liturgy unites believers with the universal Church and sanctifies everyday moments. He also offers practical tips for those starting out and emphasizes that engaging with Scripture can lead to interior transformation. Embrace the journey from confusion to meaningful prayer!

Fr. Mike Schmitz shares his heartfelt reactions to poignant scenes from a popular series about Christ. He reflects on Mary Magdalene's emotional return and the themes of sin and redemption. The dialogue about Peter walking on water dives into trust and inclusion. He examines the feeding of the 5000, emphasizing care for the crowd. Fr. Mike also discusses Jesus' personal call to Matthew and the deeper meaning behind healing at Bethesda. His insights explore faith, suffering, and the joy of new beginnings.

Fr. Mike explores the intriguing concept of detachment, highlighting how it appears across various traditions, including Buddhism. He distinguishes Christian detachment from mere indifference, emphasizing that it involves a proper ordering of our hearts. This form of detachment encourages generosity and fosters authentic relationships. Fr. Mike underscores the importance of recognizing all gifts as entrusted by God, enabling us to serve others and remain open to His call. He encourages listeners to delve into The Imitation of Christ for deeper understanding.

Fr. Mike tackles the recent surge in violence and its roots in societal breakdown. He reflects on the powerful statement that silence leads to violence, urging a cultural shift towards open dialogue. Mental health's tie to violent behavior is explored, highlighting how our worldviews dictate choices. The discussion contrasts subjective versus objective truths, stressing the importance of truth in fostering unity. Finally, the need for grace and respectful dialogue is emphasized as essential for healing and understanding in a fractured world.

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.