

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

Sep 11, 2024 • 17min
Day 255: Human Solidarity (2024)
Together, with Fr. Mike, we reach the conclusion of the article on Social Justice. Fr. Mike emphasizes that although we have a right to private property, we also have a duty to meet the needs of those around us. Every human being has a right to what they need to thrive in this life. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1939-1948.
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.

Sep 10, 2024 • 22min
Day 254: Social Justice (2024)
Explore the core principles of social justice, focusing on human dignity and equality among all people. Discover Christ's teachings that emphasize love and respect for everyone, even enemies. Hear an inspiring tale of rescuing children from sex trafficking, highlighting moral dilemmas in such critical missions. The podcast insists on the need to love and serve marginalized individuals while promoting compassion and forgiveness. It calls for a response to discrimination, advocating for a society rooted in equality and communal responsibility.

Sep 9, 2024 • 22min
Day 253: Participation in Public Life (2024)
The Catechism has shown us how the common good begins with the good of the individual. It further shows us that each individual can participate in the pursuit of the common good for all—and that this participation is not optional, but an obligation. Fr. Mike explains the nature of this obligation in quite simple terms: “see a need, fill a need.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1913-1927.
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.

Sep 8, 2024 • 18min
Day 252: The Common Good (2024)
Explore the deep connection between individual dignity and the common good. The discussion reveals how personal well-being is intertwined with community welfare. Consider the responsibilities of citizens and the role of the state in promoting societal health. Delve into three key elements essential for harmony: respect for individuals, social well-being, and just authority. This thought-provoking perspective encourages listeners to assess their actions for their impact on the community and future generations.

Sep 7, 2024 • 19min
Day 251: Authorities in Society (2024)
Authority is essential for a flourishing society, according to the insights from the Catechism. The discussion examines how legitimate authority derives from divine origins and must be respected for the common good. Fr. Mike emphasizes the moral foundation of authority, advocating for balanced governance to prevent abuses. Understanding authority isn't about mere power; it's rooted in truth and competence. Ultimately, the podcast highlights that respecting authority can foster a just and orderly society.

Sep 6, 2024 • 22min
Day 250: Conversion in Society (2024)
In this insightful discussion, the importance of inward conversion for societal change takes center stage. It emphasizes that societies comprised of people with both body and soul need spiritual growth to uphold human dignity. Fr. Mike highlights the role of social structures, like family and state, in fostering individual flourishing. The conversation also navigates the significance of prioritizing God while promoting justice and moral values. Ultimately, personal transformation is seen as crucial for cultivating a just and respectful community.

Sep 5, 2024 • 21min
Day 249: The Person in Society (2024)
Man is made for communion. God created man in his triune image, making us naturally social and communal beings. We learn that various societies weave us together: the family, the state, our professions, and recreational activities, among others. Fr. Mike explains how the Church promotes the principle of subsidiarity to protect the goodness of the various levels of society as each level pursues the common good. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1877-1885.
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.

Sep 4, 2024 • 20min
Day 248: The Spread of Sin (2024)
Dive into the complexities of sin and its cascading effects on individuals and communities. Explore how capital sins can lead to deeper vices and the daunting responsibility of enabling others' sins. Discover the distinctions between mortal and venial sins, and how habitual sinning clouds moral judgment. Reflect on historical examples, like King David, to understand the intertwined nature of justice and community in battling sin. This thought-provoking discussion urges listeners to confront their behaviors and consider their role in societal sins.

Sep 3, 2024 • 22min
Day 247: The Weight of Sin (2024)
Explore the fascinating distinctions between mortal and venial sins, revealing how each affects our relationship with God. Discover the gravity of sin through various criteria, highlighting God’s infinite mercy even in our imperfections. Delve into the importance of confession and the severe nature of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. This insightful discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their actions and seek forgiveness, reassuring them that redemption is always within reach.

Sep 2, 2024 • 25min
Day 246: Mercy and the Mystery of Sin (2024)
Explore the profound connection between mercy and sin, revealing how recognizing our failings deepens our understanding of divine love. Delve into the nature of sin, categorized in various ways that impact relationships with God and others. Reflect on gratitude and biblical parables that illuminate the conflict between essential values and fleeting desires. Examine the consequences of sin on human dignity, emphasizing the importance of aligning attachments with true love. Discover the transformative power of acknowledging sin to fully embrace God's mercy.


