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
11 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 16min
Day 24: Unity of Faith (2025)
Explore the vital unity of faith within Christianity and its deeper meanings beyond mere formulas. Discover how the Church preserves these truths through apostolic succession and historical teachings. Delve into the significance of community and the role of the Holy Spirit in fostering personal renewal. Reflect on the enduring message of salvation that transcends cultural boundaries, while appreciating the Church’s responsibility as a guardian of faith across the ages.
13 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 16min
Day 23: We Believe (2025)
Fr. Mike emphasizes that faith is not a solitary journey but a communal one, passed down through generations. He discusses the Church's role in nurturing believers and fostering a sense of community. Despite life's challenges, faith offers a glimpse of eternal life, allowing individuals to taste heaven on Earth. Drawing insights from C.S. Lewis, he advocates for a life led by faith over sight, highlighting how shared experiences and sacraments strengthen belief. Together, believers navigate doubts and spiritual growth as a collective.
15 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 17min
Day 22: Wrestling with Faith (2025)
Fr. Mike discusses the motives of credibility for belief in God, highlighting the signs that affirm His existence. He differentiates between doubting and struggling with faith, emphasizing that wrestling with it is a common human experience. The importance of free will in belief is explored, asserting that faith is a personal choice supported by reason and divine truth. Additionally, the integral role of faith in salvation is examined, encouraging nurturing through scripture and prayer.
7 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 14min
Day 21: Believing God (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the essence of faith, highlighting it as a divine grace that coexists with human freedom and reason. He explains that true faith means not just believing in God, but believing everything He says. The discussion emphasizes the deep connection between personal commitment to God and the acceptance of divine truth. Listeners are encouraged to recognize faith as a gift that requires a heartfelt response, and to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance on their spiritual journeys.
11 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 15min
Day 20: Stepping in Faith (2025)
Explore the journey of faith as we uncover how God's revelations call us to respond. Dive into the examples of Mary and Abraham, who embody true obedience and trust. Discover that faith is not just belief, but a deeper commitment requiring intellect and will. We learn that faith unfolds step by step, often without the full picture. This insightful discussion encourages a more profound relationship with God, shining a light on how to take that next step in faith.
18 snips
Jan 19, 2025 • 11min
Day 19: Summary of Sacred Scripture (2025)
Delve into the profound significance of sacred scripture as a unified testimony to Christ. Discover its divine inspiration and the importance of accurate interpretation. Explore the inerrant nature of the Bible and the vital role it plays in Christian living. Gain insights on the unity between the Old and New Testaments and the need to venerate all 73 books. Fr. Mike emphasizes the nourishing power of both scripture and the Eucharist in shaping our faith.
Jan 19, 2025 • 11min
Day 19: Summary of Sacred Scripture (2026)
Fr. Mike revisits eight key takeaways from recent readings, emphasizing that all scriptures form a unified text centered on Christ. He highlights the divine inspiration that guides human authors, affirming that Scripture contains saving truths without error. The importance of veneration for both Scripture and the Eucharist is explored, showcasing their nourishing role in Christian life. Fr. Mike also reflects on the purpose of Revelation, urging listeners to engage with Scripture and discover God's voice in their lives.
13 snips
Jan 18, 2025 • 16min
Day 18: The Unity of the Testaments (2025)
Discover the fascinating connection between the Old and New Testaments that unveils God's grand revelation. Delve into typology to see how the Old Testament beautifully prefigures the New. Learn about common myths around the Bible's accessibility and the Catholic Church's role in scripture dissemination. Explore why regular scripture study is essential for deepening your understanding of Jesus Christ and enhancing your faith journey. The significance of the Bible in Catholic theology is emphasized, showcasing its enduring relevance.
12 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 19min
Day 17: The Canon of Scripture (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the rich history of the canon of Scripture, emphasizing the vital role of all 73 books. He discusses the significance of both the Old and New Testaments, framing the Old Testament as foundational and the New as the ultimate revelation of God through Jesus. The transition from oral tradition to written Gospels highlights their importance in Christianity. You'll learn about the church's essential role in the canonization process, shedding light on how these texts inspire spiritual truth.
10 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 14min
Day 16: Senses of Scripture (2025)
Fr. Mike dives deep into the layers of Scripture, exploring its literal and spiritual senses. He discusses the allegorical, moral, and anagogical interpretations, offering scriptural examples to enhance understanding. The importance of communal engagement with the Word is highlighted, emphasizing mutual support among learners. Additionally, he touches on the authority of the Church in establishing the New Testament, showcasing the vital role it played in determining the biblical canon.
