The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Ascension
In Ascension’s The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides you through the entire Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 episodes, providing explanation, insight, and encouragement along the way.
Unlike any other Catechism podcast, The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) podcast follows a reading plan inspired by Ascension’s Foundations of Faith approach, a color-coded approach that reveals the structure of the Catechism, making it easier to read and understand. With this podcast, you’ll finally understand what it means to be Catholic and how the beliefs of the Catholic Faith come together.
Listen and…
Read the ENTIRE Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 days
Understand the essentials of the Catholic Faith and why they matter
Understand how Church teaching is rooted in Sacred Scripture
Absorb over 2,000 years of Sacred Tradition
Encounter God’s plan of sheer goodness for your life
Each 15-20 minute episode includes:
A guided prayer to help you enter into each episode
A reading from the Catechism of the Catholic Church
An explanation from Fr. Mike Schmitz about the reading
The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Unlike any other Catechism podcast, The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) podcast follows a reading plan inspired by Ascension’s Foundations of Faith approach, a color-coded approach that reveals the structure of the Catechism, making it easier to read and understand. With this podcast, you’ll finally understand what it means to be Catholic and how the beliefs of the Catholic Faith come together.
Listen and…
Read the ENTIRE Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 days
Understand the essentials of the Catholic Faith and why they matter
Understand how Church teaching is rooted in Sacred Scripture
Absorb over 2,000 years of Sacred Tradition
Encounter God’s plan of sheer goodness for your life
Each 15-20 minute episode includes:
A guided prayer to help you enter into each episode
A reading from the Catechism of the Catholic Church
An explanation from Fr. Mike Schmitz about the reading
The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 23min
Day 237: The Morality of the Passions (2025)
Explore the intriguing relationship between passions and morality. Learn how emotions can shape our decisions, serving as a double-edged sword between virtue and vice. Discover the importance of self-discipline and divine guidance in managing these complex feelings. Dive into the significance of love as a central passion, while also reflecting on how emotions like anger and joy influence ethical choices. Finally, differentiate between transient feelings and genuine love to better navigate the moral landscape of our lives.
8 snips
Aug 24, 2025 • 18min
Day 236: The Morality of Human Acts (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the intricate layers of morality, focusing on the three crucial sources: the object chosen, the intention behind it, and the surrounding circumstances. He discusses how these elements shape our moral decisions and emphasizes the importance of evaluating actions beyond mere intentions. The conversation highlights a troubling trend among young adults in grasping moral distinctions, urging listeners to reflect deeply on their ethical choices and the inherent nature of right and wrong.
7 snips
Aug 23, 2025 • 17min
Day 235: Human Freedom in Salvation (2025)
Human freedom plays a crucial role in salvation, balancing rights with moral responsibilities. The discussion reveals how true freedom means choosing good over mere choice, as wrong actions lead to moral blindness. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the liberating grace of Christ, which empowers them to make righteous decisions. The podcast also emphasizes the joy that comes from adhering to moral law, reinforcing that real liberty is found within the framework of faith and community support.
8 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 16min
Day 234: Freedom and Responsibility (2025)
Discover the profound link between human freedom and moral responsibility. The discussion emphasizes choosing good over evil as the essence of true freedom. Fr. Mike explores how ignorance and intention impact our accountability for actions. Biblical examples illuminate personal growth and the importance of virtues in relationships. Moreover, it highlights the contrast between earthly freedom and the perfected freedom found in divine justice.
7 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 20min
Day 233: The Beatitudes (2025)
Explore the profound significance of the Beatitudes in Jesus' teachings on happiness and dignity. Discover how these blessings offer a framework for moral living and spiritual growth, directing us toward true fulfillment in God, not material wealth. Reflect on the essence of happiness and the unexpected blessings hidden in life's challenges. The discussion emphasizes the need to prioritize spiritual values over societal pressures, guiding listeners on their quest for genuine joy and eternal life.
8 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 20min
Day 232: Man Is Made in the Image of God (2025)
Discover the deep concept of human dignity rooted in being created in God's image. Fr. Mike discusses how this dignity is preserved through virtue and charity, highlighting the moral responsibilities we have to one another. The intricacies of original sin and its impact on human identity are unveiled, emphasizing our journey through good and evil. The transformative power of Christ's love is a key theme, illustrating how divine grace supports us in our pursuit of virtue and eternal life.
8 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 19min
Day 231: Our Calling (2025)
Dive into the transformative power of grace and the significance of being children of God. Discover how Christian virtues shape our identities and conduct. Explore the journey into morality and vocation, as Fr. Mike emphasizes that the core of acceptance often lies in our moral understanding rather than dogma. Embrace the call to reflect the Gospel in everyday life and learn how the Holy Spirit guides this profound transformation.
11 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 59min
Day 230: How We Live (Part 3 Introduction with Dr. Mary Healy)
Dr. Mary Healy, a Professor of Scripture at Sacred Heart Seminary and expert in moral theology, joins the conversation to explore key insights from the Catechism on how we live. They discuss the true nature of moral teachings as gifts for fulfillment, emphasize the need for discernment between God’s gentle voice and self-accusation, and highlight the balance between individual freedom and the common good. Healy encourages embracing Catholic perspectives on social justice and love, underscoring the transformative power of surrendering to God's will.
8 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 21min
Day 229: Christian Funerals (2025)
Discover the profound significance of Christian funerals as celebrations of hope and eternal life. Fr. Mike delves into the rich liturgical elements that bring communities together to honor the deceased. Explore how the Eucharist and prayers for purification play a crucial role in these rituals. Understand death through the lens of the Paschal mystery and the promise of reunion in Christ. Each farewell is not an end but a step towards the fullness of the Kingdom.
9 snips
Aug 16, 2025 • 23min
Day 228: Blessings, Sacramentals and Popular Piety (2025)
Dive into the fascinating world of sacramentals and blessings that enrich the Catholic faith. Discover how these sacred signs connect to the sacraments and enhance spiritual growth. Explore the significance of exorcisms, both simple and solemn, in establishing a sacred purpose. Hear how popular piety complements the liturgy, rather than replaces it, illustrating the vibrant tapestry of devotion in the Church. An engaging discussion that highlights the depth and diversity of Catholic traditions awaits you.
