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
7 snips
Nov 16, 2025 • 22min
Day 320: The Truth (2025)
Delve into the Eighth Commandment and explore the profound importance of living in truth. Fr. Mike discusses the obligation to adhere to truth once known and how it shapes our actions. He highlights the role of God and Jesus as the ultimate sources of truth while reflecting on the virtues of truthfulness and justice. The concept of martyrdom as the highest witness to faith is also unpacked, emphasizing the call for Christians to testify through both words and deeds. This thought-provoking journey encourages listeners to live authentically.
9 snips
Nov 15, 2025 • 15min
Day 319: Summary of the Seventh Commandment (2025)
Father Mike Schmitz dives into the essence of the seventh commandment, emphasizing the dignity of private property and the Church's responsibility in social justice. He challenges listeners to recognize Jesus in the poor and confront their moral choices. The discussion highlights the value of human labor, connecting work to creation and redemption. With poignant parables like Lazarus, he illustrates God's call for compassion towards those in need and encourages an active response to economic injustices.
8 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 22min
Day 318: Love for the Poor (2025)
Fr. Mike explores the Church's deep-rooted love for the poor, emphasizing they are the true treasures of the Church. He discusses how caring for the poor is a matter of justice rather than just charity. The podcast delves into Scriptural motives, the significance of both corporal and spiritual works of mercy, and the necessity of recognizing Christ in the poor. Fr. Mike highlights the importance of prioritizing almsgiving over material adornments, all while reflecting on historical teachings from the Old Testament and notable saints.
8 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 15min
Day 317: International Justice and Solidarity (2025)
Fr. Mike delves into the critical topics of international justice and solidarity. He highlights the moral responsibilities of wealthy nations to support poorer ones, discussing how current systems often hinder development. Direct aid has its limits, underscoring the need for institutional reform. Fr. Mike also emphasizes that spiritual growth and self-awareness are vital for true development. The conversation further explores the roles of clergy and laity in fostering social change, reminding listeners of their shared commitment to the vulnerable.
20 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 19min
Day 316: Labor and Social Justice (2025)
Labor is a gift tied deeply to human dignity, according to Fr. Mike. He discusses how work should serve people rather than just profits. The moral implications of just wages and the significance of employment access are explored. Fr. Mike emphasizes negotiation and respect in economic relations, highlighting the role of businesses and the state in fostering a just society. Importantly, he reflects on the redemptive nature of work, encouraging listeners to connect their labor with Christ.
7 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 21min
Day 315: The Church’s Social Doctrine (2025)
Explore the Church's views on stewardship of creation, emphasizing kindness to animals as part of our responsibility. Fr. Mike highlights the balance between affection for pets and prioritizing human needs. The discussion delves into the Church’s social doctrine, critiquing economic systems like unregulated capitalism and totalitarian communism. He advocates for fair market regulations that uphold human dignity and the common good, framing a moral perspective on today’s economic challenges.
8 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 22min
Day 314: Goods of Others (2025)
Explore the importance of respecting others' possessions and the virtues of temperance, justice, and solidarity. Delve into the moral implications of theft, including when taking is justified. Learn about the responsibilities of justice in economic contexts, and how harmful practices like fraud and price gouging violate the dignity of others. Fr. Mike highlights the significance of reparative justice and the link between personal virtue and societal fairness, offering real-life examples and encouraging a deeper commitment to ethical living.
8 snips
Nov 9, 2025 • 21min
Day 313: Ownership of Goods (2025)
The discussion delves into the seventh commandment, revealing the intriguing paradox of universal destination versus private ownership of goods. Fr. Mike emphasizes the necessity of balancing personal property rights with a stewardship mindset aimed at benefiting others. He challenges listeners to view their possessions as tools for charity rather than mere ownership. Biblical practices of charity illustrate these principles, urging moderation and a focus on helping those in need. The episode invites deep reflection on whether we see ourselves as owners or stewards of our resources.
10 snips
Nov 8, 2025 • 20min
Day 312: Polygamy, Incest, and Free Union (2025)
Explore the profound discussions around polygamy and its contradictions to true marital unity. Delve into the dark implications of incest and its impact on family dynamics. Fr. Mike draws connections between incest and the sexual abuse of minors, emphasizing the lasting damage. The concept of ‘free union’ is examined, critiquing its lack of commitment. He discusses the failures of trial marriages in maintaining fidelity. Ultimately, there’s a heartfelt message of hope for victims and the guilty, highlighting the possibility of healing and change.
9 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 23min
Day 311: Adultery and Divorce (2025)
This discussion dives deep into the moral implications of adultery, emphasizing how it tarnishes marital promises and affects families. Lust is explored as a desire that diminishes genuine love. The conversation on divorce covers its societal impact and the need for pastoral care and healing. Fr. Mike highlights God's mercy and the importance of repentance in the face of marital struggles. Listeners are reminded of the hope found in reconciliation and love, even amidst life’s challenges.
