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
7 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 18min
Day 113: The Temple of the Holy Spirit (2025)
Discover how the Holy Spirit serves as the soul of the Church, uniting believers in Christ. Explore the concept of charisms and how they contribute to the growth of the Christian community. Fr. Mike highlights the importance of discerning and using spiritual gifts for collective enhancement. The discussion emphasizes the Church as the Temple of the Holy Spirit, inviting listeners to recognize their unique roles within this divine framework.
7 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 16min
Day 112: The Church Is the Bride (2025)
Discover the beautiful metaphor of the Church as Christ's beloved bride, emphasizing divine love and commitment. Fr. Mike highlights how this relationship fosters unity among believers and inspires a deeper understanding of their identity. Reflecting on biblical examples, the discussion reveals the significance of covenantal fidelity and mutual support within the faith community. Ultimately, it reminds us that at the heart of doctrine is God's profound love for each person, ensuring everything falls into place when we embrace that truth.
7 snips
Apr 21, 2025 • 17min
Day 111: The Church as the Body of Christ (2025)
Explore the profound concept of the Church as the Body of Christ, highlighting deep communion with Jesus. Discover how believers unite in diversity, forming a vibrant tapestry of faith. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of baptism and the Eucharist in connecting members of the Church. Learn about the responsibility of individual actions within this community of believers. It's a journey into spiritual unity that transcends backgrounds, showcasing the bond between Christ and His followers.
7 snips
Apr 20, 2025 • 19min
Day 110: The People of God (2025)
Explore how God draws people to himself and creates a unique community. Discover what distinguishes the People of God and the mission they are called to fulfill. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of baptism in fostering belonging and community among believers. He encourages listeners to embrace their identity and live out their mission in the world today.
Apr 19, 2025 • 17min
Day 109: Mystery of Union With God (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the profound connection between love for the Church and the heart of Jesus. He emphasizes that loving what Jesus loves means embracing the Church as His bride. The discussion highlights the Church’s role as a mystical body and sacrament of salvation, showcasing how sacraments are vital instruments of grace. Using St. Paul’s teachings, the importance of communion with God and unity among people is underscored, reinforcing the Church’s mission in the Catholic faith.
7 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 19min
Day 108: Revealed by the Holy Spirit (2025)
The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the Church, sanctifying it with wisdom and gifts. Fr. Mike delves into the paradox of the Church as both human and divine. The discussion highlights the Church's mission to bring about God's Kingdom through charity and humility. Empowerment from the Holy Spirit equips believers to navigate faith challenges. By embracing its dual nature, the Church continues its transformative journey, reminding everyone of their vital role in this divine community.
5 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 20min
Day 107: Origin of the Church (2025)
Explore the profound origins of the Church and its significance as a divine creation, established by Christ. Delve into the pivotal role of the twelve apostles and Peter’s leadership in developing a community grounded in God's love. Discover how the Church embodies the culmination of God’s covenant with humanity and the sacramental connection through Christ's sacrifice. The discussion highlights the theological importance of the Church in God's plan, reminding listeners of the beauty of a faith built on love and sacrificial grace.
8 snips
Apr 16, 2025 • 17min
Day 106: Symbols of the Church (2025)
Explore the rich tapestry of Church symbols, like the sheepfold and cultivated field, that evoke deep emotional responses. Discover how these metaphors illustrate the Church's divine and human dimensions. The discussion dives into the tension between the Church's teachings and believers' imperfections, highlighting the journey of accepting divine guidance. It also emphasizes the Church’s identity as the bride of Christ, reminding us of the need for love and reform amidst its human flaws.
9 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 17min
Day 105: Christ’s Church and its Mission (2025)
Discover the essential identity and mission of the Church as a vital community guided by Christ and the Holy Spirit. The discussion highlights the Church's four marks: holy, Catholic, one, and apostolic. Explore the significance of the term 'church' and its dual role as a divine assembly and local community. Fr. Mike dives into the relationship between the Church and its imperfect members, encouraging everyone to embrace their sacred calling. Together, they shed light on how the Church draws life from the body of Christ.
7 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 17min
Day 104: The Holy Spirit and the Church (2025)
Discover how the Holy Spirit energizes the Church's mission in fascinating ways. Fr. Mike highlights four key functions of the Holy Spirit that inspire believers and guide the community. The connection between the Holy Spirit, the Church, and Christ’s mission is illuminated, emphasizing the ongoing work of reconciliation and healing. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their spiritual journey while celebrating the milestone of reaching day 104.
