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
18 snips
Jul 12, 2025 • 15min
Day 193: Communion Forever in Heaven (2025)
The podcast explores the Eucharist's role as a foretaste of heavenly glory, emphasizing its significance in Catholicism. Fr. Mike highlights how Holy Communion serves as a spiritual nourishment and a pledge of eternal life. Listeners are encouraged to prepare their hearts for unity with God, reflecting on personal experiences with the sacrament. The transformative power of the Eucharist is underscored, inviting believers to embrace divine love and the joy it brings.
14 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 18min
Day 192: Unity in the Eucharist (2025)
Holy Communion serves as a profound unifier among believers, yet it starkly reveals disunity within the Church. The discussion tackles a tough question: why can non-Catholics who believe in the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist not partake? The theological significance of the Eucharist is explored, emphasizing its role in fostering authentic unity and strengthening the Christian community. The podcast also addresses the complexities of intercommunion, highlighting the need for full communion to fully embrace this sacrament.
12 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 18min
Day 191: The Eucharist Changes Us (2025)
Discover how receiving Holy Communion transforms the soul, just as food nourishes the body. Explore the significance of an open heart in embracing change and the healing powers of the Eucharist. Learn how this sacrament fosters intimacy with Christ and deepens one’s spiritual journey. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of readiness in receiving divine graces, likening Holy Communion to a cleansing shower that requires shedding our barriers. Unpack the profound connection between Eucharist and spiritual renewal.
11 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 20min
Day 190: Receiving Holy Communion (2025)
The importance of preparing for Holy Communion is a key focus, emphasizing reverence and self-examination. Listeners are reminded of the seriousness of approaching the sacrament with a clean heart, highlighting the necessity of confession for those with grave sins. The celebration of reaching day 190 in this spiritual journey showcases the commitment of the community, fostering growth in faith and understanding. Through these reflections, the transformative power of the Eucharist is beautifully illustrated.
16 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 18min
Day 189: Worship of the Eucharist (2025)
Discover the profound significance of the Eucharist in Catholic worship. Delve into the mystery of Christ's real presence and the vital role of silent adoration. Explore the dual nature of the Mass as both a sacrifice and a celebration, enriched by insights from saints. Reflect on the deep-rooted beliefs surrounding Eucharistic worship and the controversies that accompany them. Be inspired by a touching story of a devoted farmer and learn how visiting the Eucharist connects believers with Jesus in a powerful and meaningful way.
10 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 19min
Day 188: Christ’s Presence in the Eucharist (2025)
Delve into the profound mystery of Christ’s true presence in the Eucharist. Discover the amazing process of transubstantiation, where bread and wine transform into the Body and Blood of Christ. Fr. Mike sheds light on the historical significance of this transformation and the vital role of the priesthood. It's a compelling exploration of faith that emphasizes the depth of this sacred celebration.
10 snips
Jul 6, 2025 • 18min
Day 187: The Church’s Sacrificial Unity (2025)
Delve into the profound sacrificial unity within the Church as both visible and invisible members unite through the Eucharist. Discover how the roles of the Pope and bishops shape this sacred celebration. Hear insights from saints like St. Ignatius of Antioch about the necessity of apostolic succession for the Eucharist. Explore the historical significance and spiritual benefits that bind all believers, living and deceased, in this divine family.
10 snips
Jul 5, 2025 • 18min
Day 186: The Sacrificial Memorial (2025)
The podcast dives into the profound meaning of the Eucharist as a sacrificial memorial. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the Mass allows us to participate in Christ's single, unifying sacrifice. He describes the Eucharist as both noun and verb, illustrating its dynamic role in worship. The discussion connects individual beliefs with communal celebration, highlighting the deep relationship between sacrifice and faith.
8 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 14min
Day 185: Thanksgiving, Memorial, Presence (2025)
Explore the transformative nature of the Eucharist as a sacrificial memorial of thanksgiving to God. Delve into the biblical stories of Cain, Abel, Moses, and Pharaoh, emphasizing the freedom to worship. Discover how true worship involves offering to God what He desires, rather than personal preferences. Uncover the profound significance of participating in the Mass as a divine invitation that fosters communal connection, highlighting the role of each individual in enriching the worship experience.
8 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 17min
Day 184: The Movement of the Mass (2025)
The celebration of the Mass unfolds with profound meaning, highlighting Christ as the head and the community as the body. Fr. Mike underscores the altar's centrality, noting that true worship is rooted in sacrifice. He explores God's love, inviting reflection on its inclusive yet exclusive nature. Additionally, the dynamic roles of both clergy and laity during the Eucharist emphasize active participation. Listeners are encouraged to consider their personal connection to the sacramental life of the Church.
