Sunday Homilies with Fr. Mike Schmitz

Explore the transformative journey of Lent as a time for personal growth and spiritual development. The desert serves as a powerful metaphor for releasing comforts and distractions. Reflect on temptation and faith through the lens of Jesus' experience. Emphasize resilience in the face of challenges, highlighting the emotional struggles of learning. Dive into the inspiring journey of a man's shift from materialism to faith, encouraging listeners to engage with their own beliefs as they navigate this season.

Silence reveals our true selves and trains our hearts for spiritual growth. The importance of facing trials and embracing challenges is discussed as a pathway to self-awareness. Lent is portrayed as a transformative season, akin to undergoing rigorous training, emphasizing prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Intentional silence is encouraged as a powerful tool for deeper communion with God, urging listeners to tune out distractions and engage in meaningful self-reflection.

Delve into the transformative power of love as taught by Jesus. The discussion challenges listeners to embrace mercy, even toward those who may not deserve it. Explore the tension between justice and mercy in scripture and personal experiences. Discover how responding to wrongdoing with compassion can lead to healing. Ultimately, the message encourages practicing unconditional love and kindness, extending grace even to enemies.

This homily invites listeners to reflect on the contrast between faith in God and the need for societal validation. It explores the relationship between faith, hope, and fear, urging trust in Jesus amid uncertainties. The transformative evidence of the resurrection is highlighted through Sir Lionel Luku's journey from skepticism to faith. The discussion emphasizes the credibility of the resurrection narratives and challenges listeners to consider how their actions reflect their faith and obedience to Jesus' teachings.

This discussion emphasizes the importance of being available and willing to embrace uncertainty. It creatively links faith to life's challenges, even drawing parallels with popular culture. Listeners are encouraged to overcome fear by taking small steps toward their divine calling. The narrative explores discernment in vocation, using metaphors of doors and action. An unexpected encounter at Home Depot highlights how recognizing God's purpose can unfold through everyday experiences. Overall, it's a call to engage with faith actively.

Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on purpose and destiny as seen through the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. Explore the idea that greatness may not only lie in achievements but in personal growth and character development. Discover how understanding one's divine calling requires fulfilling God-given purposes and serving others. The inspiring journey of humble mentors showcases the impact of dedication and prayer. Finally, learn how everyday choices and actions play a crucial role in discovering your vocation amidst life's uncertainties.

Explore the inspiring notion of living on purpose versus off purpose. Delve into Nehemiah's story, underscoring the perils of distractions and the importance of intentionality. Hear a cautionary tale about straying from one’s true calling and the hidden dangers of shadow missions. Learn how daily reflection and prayer can guide you back to your divine purpose. Embrace the adventure of your spiritual journey and the greatness you are meant to achieve!

Explore the transformative miracle at the wedding at Cana and its implications for personal faith. Discover how to set purposeful goals as a new semester begins, and redefine greatness as an internal pursuit rather than a competition. Learn about overcoming Quitter's Day with perseverance and commitment, and reflect on the importance of understanding your purpose. Find inspiration in the life of Isaiah, and realize that our gifts are meant to serve others, leading to fulfillment through purposeful living.

Explore the transformative power of baptism, where Christ makes the unclean clean. Discover the joy of being claimed by God's unconditional love, which defines our worth beyond achievements. Reflect on the significance of Jesus' baptism as a call to righteousness, illustrated with a personal story about ice cream. Dive into the beauty of divine acceptance, even in our flaws, and embrace your identity as a beloved child of God, ready to approach life's challenges with newfound confidence.

This discussion delves into the transformative power of optimism, linking it to personal stories and the Nativity. It highlights how an optimistic mindset can drive societal change and encourages risk-taking for future generations. The importance of blending hope with reality shines through as the speakers share inspiring tales of the magi and Admiral Jim Stockdale. They explore the difference between simple optimism and deeper faith-based assurance, emphasizing trust in God's plans during uncertain times.