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
Aug 2, 2024 • 14min
Day 215: Deacons and the Diaconate (2024)
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.
Aug 1, 2024 • 19min
Day 214: Priests and the Presbyterate (2024)
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.
Jul 31, 2024 • 17min
Day 213: Bishops and the Episcopacy (2024)
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.
Jul 30, 2024 • 20min
Day 212: In Persona Christi (2024)
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.
Jul 29, 2024 • 17min
Day 211: The One Priesthood of Christ (2024)
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.
Jul 28, 2024 • 17min
Day 210: The Sacrament of Holy Orders (2024)
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.
Jul 27, 2024 • 13min
Day 209: Summary of the Anointing of the Sick (2024)
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.
Jul 26, 2024 • 17min
Day 208: Completing the Earthly Pilgrimage (2024)
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.
Jul 25, 2024 • 11min
Day 207: Celebrating the Anointing of the Sick (2024)
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.
Jul 24, 2024 • 19min
Day 206: Healing the Sick (2024)
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.
