The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

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.

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.