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

Discover the powerful roles of laypeople in Christ's prophetic and kingly offices. Engage in evangelization through actions and words, as Fr. Mike emphasizes leadership rooted in service. Explore how laypeople can influence the Church's governance and the importance of collaboration with clergy. Dive into the responsibilities Christians have in society, advocating for a unified Christian conscience. This discussion encourages active participation and moral integrity in daily life, empowering individuals to be true witnesses of faith.

Discover the powerful role of the laity in the Church as they navigate the world and bring the Gospel to places often overlooked. Laypeople are called to transform everyday moments into acts that glorify God, engaging in everything from politics to economics. Learn how their unique vocation enables them to not only participate in the Church but to embody it in every aspect of life. Embrace the idea that every action can be a spiritual offering, contributing to the advancement of God's kingdom.

Explore the essential roles of bishops and the Pope in the Church, focusing on their teaching, sanctifying, and governing duties. Discover the intriguing concept of infallibility, shedding light on how it pertains to faith and morals. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of approaching Church teachings with an open heart. Dive into the connection between these offices and the service exemplified by Jesus, highlighting the profound responsibilities bishops hold in guiding their communities.

Discover the pivotal role of the Pope as the Vicar of Christ and leader of the Catholic Church. Delve into the historical moment when Jesus named Simon Peter as the Church's rock, highlighting the transformation of Peter into a crucial leader. The podcast also emphasizes the importance of bishops and their unity under the Pope's guidance, while exploring how communal prayer supports the health of the Church. Learn about the enduring nature of divine purpose through Peter's strengths and weaknesses.

Explore the vital roles within the Church: hierarchy, laity, and consecrated life, all equal in dignity but unique in function. Discover how every believer shares in Christ’s threefold office of priest, prophet, and king. Unpack the important balance of service and collaboration in ecclesial ministry, emphasizing the diverse yet united nature of the Christian mission. Finally, reflect on the sacramental ministry's significance, revealing that all baptized individuals contribute to spreading the Gospel.

For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. 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.

The fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her "apostolic" nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles' successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. 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.

The discussion highlights the Church’s powerful missionary mandate to spread the Gospel. Fr. Mike emphasizes that true salvation is found only through Jesus Christ. Listeners are encouraged to engage in respectful dialogue with non-believers while embodying humility. The urgency of evangelization is underscored through the inspiring example of Saint Francis Xavier. Love and self-sacrifice play crucial roles in mission work, reminding Christians to patiently bear witness to Christ's teachings.

Fr. Mike explores the Church's relationship with non-Christian religions, emphasizing that while goodness exists in all faiths, the fullness of truth is found within the Catholic Church. He discusses universal salvation and the importance of recognizing truth in various beliefs, asserting that sincere seekers of God can find salvation even without direct knowledge of Christ. The podcast highlights the Church's mission to evangelize and encourages listeners to actively share the Good News while fostering unity and dignity among all people.

Discover the meaning of 'catholic' as universal, highlighting the Church's role as the embodiment of Christ's presence. Explore how the Catholic Church serves all humanity and fosters unity across diverse cultures. Delve into the importance of local communities in relation to the broader apostolic tradition. Understand the concept of communion among Christians and the significance of unity under the Pope's leadership. This insightful discussion emphasizes the Church's mission to guide believers toward salvation.