The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Ascension
In The Bible in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz walks you through the entire Bible in 365 episodes, providing commentary, reflection, and prayer along the way.
Unlike any other Bible podcast, Ascension’s Bible in a Year podcast follows a reading plan inspired by The Great Adventure Bible Timeline, a ground-breaking approach to understanding salvation history developed by renowned Catholic Bible scholar Jeff Cavins. For each period in the timeline, Jeff will join Fr. Mike for a special episode that will help you understand the context of each reading.
With this podcast, you won’t just read the Bible in a year … you’ll finally understand how all the pieces of the Bible fit together to tell an amazing story that continues in your life today!
Listen and…
Read the ENTIRE Bible
Feel more confident about your understanding of Scripture
Experience the transformative power of God’s Word in your daily life
Start seeing the world through the lens of Scripture
Each 20-25 minute episode includes:
Two to three scripture readings
A reflection from Fr. Mike Schmitz
A guided prayer to help you hear God’s voice in his Word
The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Unlike any other Bible podcast, Ascension’s Bible in a Year podcast follows a reading plan inspired by The Great Adventure Bible Timeline, a ground-breaking approach to understanding salvation history developed by renowned Catholic Bible scholar Jeff Cavins. For each period in the timeline, Jeff will join Fr. Mike for a special episode that will help you understand the context of each reading.
With this podcast, you won’t just read the Bible in a year … you’ll finally understand how all the pieces of the Bible fit together to tell an amazing story that continues in your life today!
Listen and…
Read the ENTIRE Bible
Feel more confident about your understanding of Scripture
Experience the transformative power of God’s Word in your daily life
Start seeing the world through the lens of Scripture
Each 20-25 minute episode includes:
Two to three scripture readings
A reflection from Fr. Mike Schmitz
A guided prayer to help you hear God’s voice in his Word
The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Episodes
Mentioned books
14 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 25min
Day 332: Barnabas and Paul On Mission (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the early Christian struggle to include Gentiles, highlighting Peter's transformative vision. He emphasizes Barnabas's role as the 'Son of Encouragement' and his pivotal partnership with Paul. The podcast also dives into the challenges faced by the Church in Corinth, addressing divisions and worldly wisdom. Fr. Mike reflects on the significance of each believer’s gifts and underscores unity within the faith community. Lastly, he connects Paul's teachings on enduring hardship as a testament to true leadership in Christ.
12 snips
Nov 27, 2025 • 22min
Day 331: Peter Preaches to the Gentiles (2025)
Discover how Peter's vision leads him to spread the gospel to Gentiles for the first time, shattering old boundaries. Witness the powerful moment when Cornelius and his household receive the Holy Spirit and embrace baptism. Dive into Paul's urgent call for unity among the factions in the Corinthian church, reminding us that allegiance to Christ, not human leaders, is crucial. Explore the contrast between worldly wisdom and the divine power found in the message of the cross.
10 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 21min
Day 330: Saul's Conversion (2025)
Explore the miraculous conversion of Saul and its profound implications for the Church. Discover how Jesus works through his followers, particularly in moments of healing and guidance. Delve into St. Paul's final thoughts on unity and mission as he addresses Gentile inclusion in his letter to the Romans. The importance of relationships in the faith community is emphasized, reminding us that the Gospel thrives through family and friendship. Fr. Mike concludes with a reflection on participating in Christ's suffering and encourages prayer for loved ones.
16 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 21min
Day 329: The Ethiopian Eunuch (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the gripping encounter between Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch, emphasizing the necessity of guidance for understanding Scripture. He discusses how persecution can fuel evangelization, connecting it back to the growth of the early Church. The importance of the Magisterium is highlighted as a safeguard against misinterpretation of God's Word. Additionally, Fr. Mike invokes Paul's teachings on love as the fulfillment of the law, encouraging listeners to practice charity over rigid rules, fostering a dynamic faith.
12 snips
Nov 24, 2025 • 25min
Day 328: Stephen Is Martyred (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into Stephen's powerful martyrdom, emphasizing the dangers of hardened hearts to God's word. He explores themes from Romans, discussing the call to present our bodies as living sacrifices and the importance of love in Christian life. The connection between Christians and Israel is highlighted, showcasing God's irrevocable gifts. Reflecting on Proverbs, he humorously notes the paradox of blessings perceived as curses. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to embody true Christian virtues and live counterculturally.
20 snips
Nov 23, 2025 • 23min
Day 327: Origin of the Diaconate (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the deep cultural divisions in the early Church, highlighting the struggles between Hellenist and Hebrew Christians. He delves into the origin of the diaconate, detailing the selection of seven men and the laying on of hands. Paul's sorrow for fellow Israelites who reject Christ is poignantly discussed, shedding light on his profound frustrations and teachings on mercy and salvation. The importance of confessing one's faith and the necessity of Scripture in building belief is underscored, reminding listeners of the power of preaching.
16 snips
Nov 22, 2025 • 25min
Day 326: Life in the Spirit (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into the powerful ministry of the apostles, discussing their healings and boldness in the face of authority. He contrasts the hypocrisy of Ananias and Sapphira with Barnabas's genuine generosity. The themes of Baptism and living by the Spirit are emphasized, showcasing our freedom from sin. Fr. Mike also reflects on the assurance that nothing can separate us from God's love, highlighting the transformative power of suffering for Christ. A compelling journey of faith and divine connection unfolds!
20 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 25min
Day 325: Boldness in Faith (2025)
Fr. Mike dives into the boldness of Peter and John as they stand firm before the council, defending Jesus despite threats. He explores Paul's teachings on grace, emphasizing that it empowers rather than excuses sin. The struggle between good and evil within us is highlighted, along with encouragement to seek boldness in prayer. The importance of community generosity and the transformative power of baptism are also discussed. Fr. Mike reflects on our internal conflicts, urging listeners to embrace new life in the Spirit.
26 snips
Nov 20, 2025 • 24min
Day 324: The Name of Jesus (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the transformative story of Peter healing a lame man, emphasizing that miracles serve to proclaim Jesus' name. He discusses how suffering can lead to endurance and hope, highlighting God's plan in our trials. The significance of faith, as shown through Abraham, is unpacked, illustrating that true righteousness comes from belief, not deeds. Fr. Mike calls on believers to actively use their God-given gifts to glorify Christ, insisting that every miracle points to His lordship and saving grace.
27 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 24min
Day 323: Pentecost (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the dramatic arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, igniting the apostles with power to speak in tongues. He highlights Peter's sermon, which leads to 3,000 conversions, and reflects on the early Church's communal life centered around teaching, fellowship, and prayer. The discussion delves into Romans, emphasizing humanity's need for redemption and justification by faith. Throughout, Fr. Mike calls for active evangelism and encourages staying rooted in apostolic teachings and the significance of the Eucharist.
