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

9 snips
Dec 2, 2023 • 14min
Day 336: Jesus Hears Our Prayer
This podcast explores the beauty of the "Jesus Prayer" and how Mary can intercede for us. It emphasizes the importance of prayer over talking about prayer. Topics include Jesus' response to prayer, the power of the Jesus Prayer, and the significance of Mary's example in prayer.

Dec 1, 2023 • 19min
Day 335: Jesus Teaches Us to Pray
Jesus teaches us to pray through his own prayer to the Father. Our prayer should involve reconciliation, loving enemies, praying in secret, and prayerful forgiveness. The importance of conversion, faith, and watchfulness in prayer is emphasized. The delicate balance between humility and confidence when approaching God is discussed. Three parables teach us about prayer. Praying in the name of Jesus and abiding with him are highlighted.

Nov 30, 2023 • 20min
Day 334: How Jesus Prayed
Learn about how Jesus prayed, including his learning process, frequency, and places of prayer. Jesus brought his needs to the Father, including his last words and final "loud cry." Through his example, we can pray to the Father and ask for anything, knowing that He hears and answers our prayers. Discover the significance of Jesus' prayer in his ministry and as a model for our own prayer lives.

5 snips
Nov 29, 2023 • 13min
Day 333: The Psalms
The podcast explores the significance and power of the Psalms as essential prayers that nourish and express our faith. It discusses their role in deepening our relationship with God, reminding us of His love and presence even in dark moments. The Psalms are seen as transformative and timeless, allowing for personal expression, longing for God, and trust in His guidance.

Nov 28, 2023 • 19min
Day 332: Prayer Converts Our Heart
Exploring the significance of prayer and its connection to worship, the podcast discusses the role of Elijah as a model of prayer, the transformative power of prayer in shaping beliefs and actions, and the importance of attentively listening to God's word in living out one's mission.

Nov 27, 2023 • 19min
Day 331: The Foundations of Prayer
Explore the examples of Moses and David in teaching us about the power and importance of prayer. Learn about the significance of engaging in conversation and relationship with God. Discuss the crucial role of humility in prayer and the power of honesty and intimacy with God.

5 snips
Nov 26, 2023 • 21min
Day 330: The Revelation of Prayer
Explore the significance of prayer as a vital relationship with God. The universal call to prayer and the essential search for God. Prayer as a test of faith, using Abraham's journey as an example. The battle of prayer and the importance of perseverance.

5 snips
Nov 25, 2023 • 21min
Day 329: The Gift of Prayer
The podcast explores the importance of prayer in the Christian life, emphasizing the need for humility and surrender to God. It discusses the definition and foundation of prayer, highlighting the role of love and attentiveness. The significance of praying from the heart and avoiding empty words is also emphasized, along with the importance of surrender and obedience in deepening our connection with God.

21 snips
Nov 24, 2023 • 57min
Day 328: How We Pray (Part 4 Intro w/ Sr. Miriam James Heidland)
Guest: Sr. Miriam James Heidland, Catholic sister sharing insights on prayer and its benefits. The speakers discuss the power and beauty of prayer, the importance of the heart in Catholic prayer, overcoming obstacles to prayer, the power of naming and bringing our experiences to God, the pillar of prayer and the heroic love of Christ, and Jesus' teachings on relationships and the Father's love.

Nov 23, 2023 • 15min
Day 327: Poverty of Heart
Explore the concept of poverty of heart and the desire to see God. Reflect on the goal of possessing God and the importance of detachment from riches. Discover how to be a vessel for God's blessings and the significance of sharing those blessings with others.