The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

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.

Many people struggle with the fear of approaching God and wonder if their prayers are heard. The discussion emphasizes that sincere prayer shouldn't be for show, but rather a personal connection with the divine. Drawing from Jesus' teachings, it highlights the significance of purity of heart and private devotion. Furthermore, listeners are reminded of God's unwavering love, especially during lonely times, encouraging them to embrace faith and overcome their fears in seeking a relationship with Him.

Loyalty is a powerful virtue, but it can become a double-edged sword. The discussion highlights the importance of loyalty in relationships while cautioning against its potential pitfalls. Fr. Mike emphasizes the necessity of placing faith above all else, inviting listeners to reevaluate their priorities. Misplaced allegiance can lead to dangers like idolatry, urging everyone to consider what truly deserves their loyalty. Ultimately, it’s a call to align personal values with a deeper commitment to faith.

The discussion dives into the captivating music of 'Wicked,' highlighting its impressive performances. However, it raises alarms about the oversimplification of morality in the story. There's a critical look at character interpretations, questioning the moral complexities of figures like the Wizard and the Wicked Witch. The speaker urges listeners to reflect on the implications of reimagining classic narratives, exploring the nuanced themes of good and evil in storytelling.

Dive into the profound nature of the unforgivable sin, exploring the concept as a refusal to accept God's forgiveness rather than a specific action. Fr. Mike discusses how personal choice plays a key role in spiritual redemption. Discover the profound connection between free will, sin, and divine mercy, highlighting that the real unforgivable sin is turning away from God's grace. This enlightening discussion invites listeners to seek healing through confession and embrace the transformative power of God's mercy.

Explore the true essence of humility as Fr. Mike Schmitz challenges traditional views. Discover how authentic self-awareness blends humility with confidence. It's not about diminishing oneself but embracing truth and recognizing one's strengths and limitations. Understanding this interplay not only fosters personal growth but also enhances self-worth, providing a refreshing take on living an authentic life.