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

Discover the profound connection between the Old Covenant priesthood and its fulfillment in Christ. Explore how the Levitical priests were a forerunner to the singular priesthood of Jesus. Unpack the significance of Holy Orders and the roles of bishops, priests, and deacons in today's Church. Learn about the deep implications of Christ’s eternal priesthood and the universal calling for all believers to engage in this sacred mission. This insightful journey highlights a transformative understanding of service and vocation within the Christian community.

Dive into the profound significance of Holy Orders and Matrimony as sacraments that support community growth. Explore the unique role of Holy Orders in the Church’s mission and its three degrees. Learn about the historical roles of bishops, priests, and deacons, and how each vocation calls us to a life of service. Fr. Mike emphasizes that every calling is a gift, encouraging listeners to approach their vocations with gratitude and an open heart.

Discover the profound significance of the Anointing of the Sick, a sacrament that offers hope and courage during times of illness. It not only promotes healing of body and soul but also prepares us spiritually for death. The discussion highlights three important practices of the Church that aid in embracing mortality. Reflect on how these teachings guide us through life's challenges and the journey towards the afterlife.

Exploring the transformative effects of sacraments like anointing of the sick, bringing strength, courage, peace, and forgiveness. This sacrament completes the earthly pilgrimage, uniting with Reconciliation and Eucharist. Delving into the spiritual benefits and significance, addressing death, suffering, and finding strength in times of serious illness or old age.

Exploring the power of trusting in God through the Anointing of the Sick and discussing the sacrament's importance for those in danger of death. Fr. Mike explains that the sacrament is not just for the terminally ill but for any faithful suffering from a grave illness, allowing us to enjoy its graces multiple times in a lifetime.

Exploring the miraculous healing acts of Jesus, anointing of the sick in the Church, redemptive suffering, and the role of suffering in spiritual growth. The podcast discusses Christ's teachings on healing, compassion, and the sacrament of anointing of the sick.

Sickness and suffering bring us face-to-face with our fragility and limitations. While they might cause some to lose hope and become bitter, we can also endure them in such a way as to grow in maturity and trust in God. Jesus not only heals the sick in the Gospels but also plunges into suffering’s depths. In this redemptive work, we know Jesus as the physician of soul and body. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1499-1505. 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.

In today’s nugget day, Fr. Mike reviews the major themes of the sacrament of Reconciliation. Fr. Mike emphasizes the six spiritual effects of this sacrament and reminds us of the great gift of Confession because, as the Catechism states, “to the eyes of faith, no evil is graver than sin.” We conclude today’s article with humble gratitude for God’s unfathomable mercy. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1485-1498. 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.

Exploring the purpose of indulgences, the Communion of Saints, and liturgical aspects of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Insights on mystical unity, Church's Treasury, and significance of acquiring indulgences. Discussion on confession process, communal celebrations, and role of diocesan bishop in absolution.

Exploring the transformative effects of confession in restoring individuals to God's grace, understanding the concept of indulgences, and discussing the eternal and temporal consequences of sin. Fr. Mike highlights the importance of confession in achieving reconciliation with God and the church.