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
Feb 23, 2025 • 19min
Day 54: The Fall of Man (2025)
Explore the profound implications of sin and the nature of evil. Fr. Mike discusses sin not as a flaw or mistake, but as a deliberate choice against God's will. Delve into the origins and impacts of sin, and the redemptive grace that Jesus offers. Discover the contrast between God's goodness and the reality of original sin, highlighting humanity's need for salvation. It's a thought-provoking journey into faith and morality.
9 snips
Feb 22, 2025 • 16min
Day 53: Man in Paradise (2025)
Discover the profound concept of humanity's original harmony with God and the loss of that bond through sin. Explore how Christ offers transformative grace, renewing our relationship with the divine. Uncover the idea of turning labor into an act of worship, enhancing its spiritual significance. This enlightening discussion invites you on a journey to reclaim the beauty of work and leisure as intended in the original design.
8 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 15min
Day 52: Male and Female (2025)
Dive into the divine design of male and female, exploring the beauty of human identity through faith. Discover how men and women are crafted for each other, sharing equal dignity while embodying distinct roles. Fr. Mike highlights the importance of complementarity and partnership in God’s creation. This insightful discussion calls for a deeper appreciation of our identities as reflections of divine love.
12 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 17min
Day 51: Unity of Soul and Body (2025)
Explore the profound unity of soul and body, emphasizing their inseparability that reveals our true nature. Discover how historical misunderstandings have led to confusion about identity and purpose. Delve into the embodiment of Christ as central to our salvation and the human experience of suffering. Learn about the significance of sacraments and the importance of understanding our unique creation by God for a deeper connection with the divine. Uncover the transformative power of recognizing our integrated existence.
8 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 16min
Day 50: The Dignity of Man (2025)
Explore the profound dignity of human beings as reflections of God's image. Discover the unique relationship between humanity and the Creator, highlighting our spiritual and material duality. The discussion fosters a deeper understanding of unity in diversity, confronting issues like racism and sexism. Embrace the concept of human solidarity and the call for stewardship in creation. This enlightening reflection invites listeners to celebrate our shared essence while navigating personal struggles in recognizing one's identity.
10 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 20min
Day 49: We Are Created For Worship (2025)
Explore the deep connection between all creatures and their purpose of glorifying God, centered around the creation story. Discover the significance of the Sabbath, where rest enhances our communion with the divine. Delve into the transformative 'eighth day' representing new creation through Christ's resurrection. The vital role of angels unfolds, showcasing their dedication to God and inviting humanity to mirror that devotion, emphasizing how worship is essential in our relationship with the Creator.
8 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 19min
Day 48: Creation in Order (2025)
Discover how all of creation reflects God's richness and order, revealing the interdependence of every creature. Father Mike emphasizes humanity’s unique role as caretakers of the world, urging responsible stewardship over creation. The discussion explores the inherent goodness in all beings, showcasing the divine wisdom present in nature. It's a call to respect the environment while recognizing our reflection of God’s image. Dive into the profound relationship between the Creator and the created!
8 snips
Feb 16, 2025 • 18min
Day 47: The Angels (2025)
Discover the fascinating role of angels in God's creation and their historical significance in salvation. Explore how these celestial beings serve as messengers and protectors in the Christian faith. Dive into their involvement in liturgical practices and the connection they foster between humanity and the divine. Reflect on the intercessory powers of angels as they support us in our daily lives, reminding us of their ever-present care and the profound impact they have on our journey of faith.
5 snips
Feb 15, 2025 • 18min
Day 46: Heaven and Earth (2025)
Discover the fascinating interplay between the spiritual and material worlds, touching on the profound nature of creation. Delve into the invisible presence of God and angels, highlighting their role as pure spirits designed to glorify Him. Learn about the unique relationship between the human body and soul, emphasizing the resurrection. Fr. Mike Schmitz unpacks misconceptions about the afterlife and the purpose of angels as divine messengers, making complex theological themes accessible and engaging.
14 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 14min
Day 45: Summary of Creation (2025)
Dive into the profound intentions behind creation, highlighting how God brings forth love from nothing. Explore the delicate balance of good and evil in our lives, and how faith calls us to trust in God's goodness, even amidst suffering. Discover the roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in crafting the universe, all while grappling with the mystery of evil. A reflective journey that urges us to understand our purpose and the divine providence guiding us.
