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
5 snips
May 13, 2025 • 13min
Day 133: Devotion to Mary (2025)
Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary is highlighted as essential in deepening one's faith. Understanding Mary's role enriches love for Christ and doesn't detract from devotion to God; instead, it fosters it. The discussion clarifies the distinction between worship and honor, likening it to relationships. An exploration of Mary’s connection with the Church further emphasizes her importance in Christian worship, setting the stage for deeper themes like forgiveness and resurrection.
6 snips
May 12, 2025 • 17min
Day 132: Mary Mother of the Church (2025)
Listen as the discussion unfolds around Mary's profound role as the Mother of the Church. Discover how she embodies intercession and faithfulness in the divine plan of redemption. The podcast highlights her unique identity and ongoing mission, showcasing her as a model of charity. Explore her titles like Advocate and Mediatrix, solidifying her crucial position in the spiritual life of believers. It's a thoughtful journey into deepening faith and understanding of Mary's influence in Christianity.
7 snips
May 11, 2025 • 16min
Day 131: The Communion of the Church (2025)
Discover the three states of the Church: the Triumphant, Suffering, and Militant. Learn how the communion of saints connects believers with those in heaven, emphasizing love and charity across different realms. Explore the vital intercessory role of saints in our spiritual journeys and the importance of praying for souls in purgatory. This engaging discussion highlights the sense of family within the faith, inviting everyone to reflect on their connection with the divine and one another.
4 snips
May 10, 2025 • 16min
Day 130: The Communion of Saints (2025)
Dive into the profound concept of the communion of saints, where every act of charity enriches the whole community. Discover how unity among believers is fostered through shared faith and sacraments. Fr. Mike highlights that our actions, good or bad, affect the entire body of Christ. This connection reminds us that we belong to one another, emphasizing the importance of community in the Catholic faith.
5 snips
May 9, 2025 • 13min
Day 129: Many Vocations (2025)
Explore the diverse callings within the Church, from bishops to laypeople, emphasizing unity in Christ's mission. Dive into the significant roles everyone plays and the importance of consecrated life. Reflect on the vital connection of the Church's mission and the communion of saints. Discover the profound meaning of baptism as a commitment to God, culminating in a collective call for prayer and reconsecration. It's a journey of understanding our shared faith and purpose!
10 snips
May 8, 2025 • 17min
Day 128: Unique Calls to Holiness (2025)
Explore the diverse paths to holiness as individuals respond to God’s call. Discover the unique roles of religious life, secular institutes, and apostolic societies in the Church. Dive into the significance of vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, and the power of living a consecrated life. Learn how these commitments shape evangelization and showcase Christ's presence in the world. Today's journey highlights the beauty of pursuing holiness and the essential contributions of religious communities.
7 snips
May 7, 2025 • 22min
Day 127: Consecrated Life (2025)
Dive into the beauty of consecrated life, where individuals like hermits and consecrated virgins commit to prayer and service. Explore how these unique vocations, alongside marriage, contribute to personal and communal holiness. Father Mike delves into the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience—revealing their significance in fostering intimacy with Christ. Discover how diverse paths to holiness enrich the Church and highlight the spiritual truths behind these profound commitments.
5 snips
May 6, 2025 • 20min
Day 126: Prophetic and Kingly Offices (2025)
Discover the powerful roles of laypeople in Christ's prophetic and kingly offices. Engage in evangelization through actions and words, as Fr. Mike emphasizes leadership rooted in service. Explore how laypeople can influence the Church's governance and the importance of collaboration with clergy. Dive into the responsibilities Christians have in society, advocating for a unified Christian conscience. This discussion encourages active participation and moral integrity in daily life, empowering individuals to be true witnesses of faith.
5 snips
May 5, 2025 • 20min
Day 125: Vocation of the Laity (2025)
Discover the powerful role of the laity in the Church as they navigate the world and bring the Gospel to places often overlooked. Laypeople are called to transform everyday moments into acts that glorify God, engaging in everything from politics to economics. Learn how their unique vocation enables them to not only participate in the Church but to embody it in every aspect of life. Embrace the idea that every action can be a spiritual offering, contributing to the advancement of God's kingdom.
6 snips
May 4, 2025 • 22min
Day 124: Teaching, Sanctifying, and Governing (2025)
Explore the essential roles of bishops and the Pope in the Church, focusing on their teaching, sanctifying, and governing duties. Discover the intriguing concept of infallibility, shedding light on how it pertains to faith and morals. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of approaching Church teachings with an open heart. Dive into the connection between these offices and the service exemplified by Jesus, highlighting the profound responsibilities bishops hold in guiding their communities.
