Sunday Homilies with Fr. Mike Schmitz

Explore the deep message of 'memento mori' and its call to reflect on mortality. Discover how a poignant memory related to St. Francis of Assisi inspires a reevaluation of life's priorities. The podcast highlights the futility of material wealth, urging listeners to focus on spiritual richness. It discusses finding peace in the tension between earthly concerns and divine commitments. Personal vices and the journey toward spiritual renewal are also examined, emphasizing patience, generosity, and the power of truth in fostering growth.

Dive into the challenges of prayer, where it's acknowledged as a true battle that many face. Discover the importance of spiritual independence and learn four practical steps to enhance your prayer life. The discussion reveals personal struggles, making it relatable for anyone seeking a deeper connection with God. Explore how to effectively approach prayer with renewed vigor and consistency.

Discover the delicate balance between active service and contemplative presence through the story of Martha and Mary. Hear how performing tasks out of love for Jesus transforms even the most mundane duties into meaningful acts. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and scriptural insights that highlight the power of love as a motivator for service, reminding us that every action, no matter how small, carries great significance when driven by faith.

Dive into a reflection on the importance of action over mere knowledge, emphasizing that knowing what to do is futile without actual effort. The parable of the Good Samaritan shines a light on selfless love and neighborly kindness. Personal stories underscore the struggle between knowing the right recovery actions and the challenges of following through. Explore common barriers that hinder us from acting and find motivation to confront those avoided tasks, transforming insight into meaningful change.

This discussion highlights the remarkable courage of those who signed the Declaration of Independence, risking everything for liberty. The speaker draws parallels between their sacrifices and the commitment required of Christians following Jesus. A personal high school memory ties into these themes, encouraging a deeper look at the signers' legacies. The transformative power of knowing Christ is explored, emphasizing spiritual wealth over earthly gains. Ultimately, listeners are invited to reflect on their own faith journeys and the sacrifices they must consider.

Dive into the significance of the Church as a cornerstone of faith, where Jesus establishes His Kingdom on earth. Explore the theological implications of Simon Peter's declaration of Jesus as the Messiah and how it shapes Church authority. Discover the historical ties of Zebulun and Naphtali to Jesus' ministry and the calling of the apostles. The pivotal role of Peter as the 'rock' of the Church is also examined, emphasizing the Pope’s mission as a servant leader guided by divine revelation.

The discussion centers on the profound significance of the Eucharist as the greatest gift from Jesus, emphasizing His command to 'Do this in memory of Me.' It highlights how even devout believers can overlook this gift without the Church's guidance. The relationship between Scripture and Church is explored, showcasing how doctrines, even those not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, find their roots in biblical teachings. Additionally, the podcast addresses complex theological concepts like the Trinity and purgatory, underscoring the Church's role in interpreting these beliefs.

Exploring the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, the discussion emphasizes the Church's crucial role in interpreting Scripture and guiding faith. Personal stories illustrate the significance of the Eucharist as the true body and blood of Christ, supported by historical accounts from early Christians. Extraordinary cases of the Eucharist transforming into flesh and blood offer a compelling glimpse into the miraculous, strengthening faith among believers. This deep interconnection between Christians and the Eucharist underscores its vital role in shaping identity and worship.

The discussion begins with the Catholic Church's divine foundation by Jesus, setting it apart from man-made religions. The essential relationship between the Church and scripture is explored, emphasizing the need for Church guidance to avoid misinterpretations. Listeners are reminded of the Church's messy history, reflecting both its sacred mission and human flaws. Despite past shortcomings, the Church remains a vital institution for spiritual connection and community, underlining its authority in interpreting divine revelation.

Discussing the profound link between Scripture and the Church, the conversation dives into how the Church defines the biblical canon. It highlights the consensus around the New Testament and the complexities surrounding the Old Testament books, particularly those excluded by Martin Luther. Historical debates shed light on the authority of scripture, while underscoring the Church's role as the ultimate foundation of truth. The reflections on Jesus' teachings during the Solemnity of the Ascension provide a spiritual backdrop to these critical discussions.