The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Sr. Miriam James Heidland, a member of the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity, shares her journey of faith and insights on deepening prayer. She discusses the transformative power of prayer, urging listeners to overcome misconceptions and recognize their rightful relationship with God. The conversation highlights the importance of honesty in prayer and relationships, as well as embracing love and mercy. Listeners are encouraged to engage in contemplative prayer, deepening their connection with God and fostering authenticity in their spiritual lives.

Where should we find consolation? It's essential to remember that our ultimate goal and true source of happiness is God. With this in mind, Fr. Mike emphasizes the need to detach ourselves from worldly possessions and strive to be channels of God's grace. By doing so, when we receive blessings, we can in turn become a blessing to others. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2544-2557. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Explore the depths of envy and jealousy, often labeled as the diabolical sins. Discover the transformative power of humility and goodwill in overcoming these destructive desires. Delve into the emotional distinctions between jealousy as a natural reaction and envy as a harmful force. Reflect on how societal norms around instant gratification have shaped our desires for consumption. Lastly, find insight on aligning one's desires with the Spirit to attain true fulfillment.

Explore the ongoing battle for purity in today's world and how divine grace can lead to freedom from temptation. Discover the significance of purity of heart and modesty in safeguarding dignity and relationships. Dive into St. Augustine's struggles to grasp the challenges of chastity, while emphasizing the importance of both internal discipline and external influences. Finally, shift your perspective on purity and modesty to foster respect and love, enhancing interpersonal connections.

The discussion kicks off with the ninth commandment, revealing the dangers of covetousness. Fr. Mike dives into the conflict between flesh and spirit, emphasizing the need for purity of heart. He highlights how obedience to God reshapes our vision of others, aligning it with divine perspectives. The exploration of desires and their roots uncovers the links between brokenness and different forms of lust. With personal stories, Fr. Mike illustrates the journey towards temperance and the power of faith.

Explore the captivating connection between truth, beauty, and sacred art. Discover how beautiful art reflects the essence of God and inspires faith. Delve into the role of music and visual arts in conveying deep spiritual truths. Learn about the responsibility of church leaders to curate art that elevates worship. Throughout this journey, find encouragement to live in truth and bear witness to Christ through all expressions of creativity.

Charity dictates who we reveal the truth to. We learn today that the “right to the communication of truth is not unconditional.” Fr. Mike explains that this means we ought to examine what facts we reveal to others prudently. Fr. Mike highlights the role of mass media in disseminating the truth and the importance of guarding ourselves against gossip. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2488-2499. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

What does it mean to live out the truth? This theme carries over as we continue our evaluation of the eighth commandment. We learn the Catechism’s teachings on ways we violate truth, degrees of gravity based on circumstances, and the duty of reparation. Fr. Mike discusses each offense and offers resonating examples to reflect on. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2475-2487. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

We begin our dive into the eighth commandment: “You shall not bear false witness.” The Catechism defines truth, identifies the importance of truth, and reflects on martyrdom. Fr. Mike unpacks all of this information and reminds us that our duty as Christians is to live in the truth and bear witness to the truth in what we say and how we act. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2464-2474. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

We have reached the In Brief section, or nugget day, on the seventh commandment. Father Mike reiterates that the right to private property comes from our dignity as humans, and the Church has a duty to weigh in on economic or social matters where that dignity is threatened. He challenges us to ask ourselves, do we see Jesus in “the distressing disguise of the poor” and just walk by him, or do we respond to him? Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2450-2463. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.