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

Discover the essence of a Catholic wedding, focusing on its valid, worthy, and fruitful nature. Explore the beautiful connection between virginity and marriage as a higher divine purpose. Delve into the sacramental significance of matrimony, emphasizing mutual consent and the joy of celibacy. Fr. Mike highlights how celibate individuals can lead fulfilling lives while underscoring prayer and the Holy Spirit's role in sustaining couples' love and commitment.

Discover how the meaning of marriage transforms from the Old to the New Covenant. The sacrament of marriage is unveiled as a reflection of Christ’s love for the Church. Explore the journey from polygamy and divorce to the sanctity of Christian marriage. Learn how true love thrives on sacrifice and self-giving amidst life’s challenges. Fr. Mike emphasizes the grace-filled nature of this union and the divine support available to couples, revealing the powerful connection between love and commitment.

In this engaging discussion, Fr. Mike, a knowledgeable priest and theologian, dives into the sacred sacrament of holy Matrimony. He reveals how marriage is both a divine vocation and a partnership aimed at the good of the spouses and family. Fr. Mike explores God’s design for marriage, emphasizing its purpose amidst life's challenges. He also discusses the transformative grace that helps couples navigate sin and discord, highlighting the essential roles of love and commitment in the journey of married life.

Fr. Mike, a devoted priest, shares insightful reflections on the sacrament of Holy Orders. He emphasizes the vital role of bishops, priests, and deacons as mediators between God and the community. Fr. Mike encourages listeners to embrace their own callings, whether in holy orders or matrimony, while celebrating the shared priesthood of all believers. He also calls for prayers for those discerning their vocations and highlights the significance of God's grace in both sacred paths. Revelations and reflections abound!

Fr. Mike, a dedicated priest known for his focus on the significance of ordination, dives into the sacrament of Holy Orders. He explains how ordination leaves an indelible spiritual mark, making a man a priest for life. The conversation emphasizes that Holy Orders is fundamentally a sacrament of service, shaping priests to better serve the Church. Fr. Mike also highlights the transformative power of this sacrament and the necessity of love and personal conversion in fulfilling a priest's vocation.

Dive deep into the sacrament of Holy Orders, exploring who can receive this sacred ordination. Discover the theological reasons behind the Church's teaching that only baptized men can be ordained, and unpack the distinct roles of spiritual fathers and mothers. The conversation contrasts celibacy norms in the Latin Church with the acceptance of married clergy in Eastern traditions. Engage with discussions on the contributions of men and women in both family and church life, highlighting the importance of service and community over authority.

Discover the profound role of deacons in the Catholic Church and their responsibilities as servants within the ecclesiastical hierarchy. Explore the intricate rite of ordination and the sacramental nature of the diaconate. Delve into the importance of apostolic succession and the connection between prayer and service in this vital ministry. Each element of the ordination process is unpacked, revealing the significant impact deacons have on the Church's mission.

Exploring the pivotal role of priests in the Church, this discussion highlights their partnership with bishops as co-workers in faith. It emphasizes how a priest's life should reflect Christ's teachings, focusing on their mission to sanctify, teach, and govern. The podcast also delves into the significance of community among priests, stressing the importance of support and prayer, especially during challenging times. A heartfelt blessing for priests wraps up this enlightening journey into the responsibilities and dignity that come with the priesthood.

There are three degrees within the sacrament of Holy Orders: the episcopacy (bishops), the presbyterate (priests), and the diaconate (deacons). The Catechism begins unpacking ordination with the bishops. Fr. Mike speaks on the special role that bishops play in the life of the Church. Today’s readings are from Catechism paragraphs 1554-1561. 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 fascinating distinctions between the ministerial and common priesthood in the Church. Discover how ministerial priests act in persona Christi, serving as Christ's representatives. The conversation highlights the sacramental role of holy orders and the deep responsibilities facing priests. Uncover the balance of strength and humility necessary in their ministry, as well as the importance of community support. The discussion challenges negative stereotypes of masculinity, presenting Jesus as the ultimate model of strength through service.