

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

Mar 18, 2024 • 21min
Day 78: Signs of the Kingdom (2024)
Explore how Jesus' miracles affirmed his identity as the promised Messiah and reflect on the importance of these signs in establishing the presence of the kingdom of God. Discover the significance of Christ's miracles and authority in showcasing compassion and freeing people from sin. Unpack Peter's unique authority within the structure of the kingdom through Jesus' act of handing over the keys. Dive into the exploration of miracles in strengthening faith and addressing the spiritual battle between light and darkness.

Mar 17, 2024 • 18min
Day 77: The Kingdom of God (2024)
Fr. Mike discusses the Kingdom of God and who belongs, emphasizing the importance of welcoming all. He challenges listeners to give everything to enter the kingdom, not just words but deeds. The episode explores Jesus' mission and the inclusive nature of the kingdom, calling for active faith and commitment.

Mar 16, 2024 • 20min
Day 76: Jesus’ Baptism and Temptation (2024)
Explore Jesus' Baptism as a manifestation of his mission and acceptance of suffering. Discover how his temptations echo Adam's but reveal his faithful obedience to the Father. Learn how our obedience participates in his victory over the Devil.

Mar 15, 2024 • 24min
Day 75: Jesus’ Infancy and Hidden Life (2024)
Fr. Mike delves into the mysteries of Jesus' infancy, focusing on his circumcision, Epiphany, and hidden life. He emphasizes Jesus' obedience to both his heavenly and earthly parents, encouraging listeners to imitate this obedience. The podcast explores the symbolism behind key events in Jesus' infancy, highlighting themes of salvation and opposition to darkness.

Mar 14, 2024 • 18min
Day 74: The Christmas Mystery (2024)
Exploring the deep mystery of Christ's coming in Advent and Christmas, emphasizing the need for Christ to be formed in us. Discussing the humility of Jesus' birth and the importance of becoming children in relation to God. Reflecting on the significance of Christ being the center of our lives and the continuous journey of preparing for His presence.

Mar 13, 2024 • 22min
Day 73: Christ’s Life Is Mystery (2024)
Exploring the enigmatic facets of Christ's life, focusing on the various mysteries surrounding His existence. Emphasizing Christ as a revelation of the Father, a model for believers, and an instrument of redemption. Diving into the profound roles of Mary and Joseph in His upbringing. Signifying his divine mystery, revealing the fullness of deity dwelling in him.

Mar 12, 2024 • 14min
Day 72: Mary’s Motherhood (2024)
Exploring the theological basis for Mary's perpetual virginity and its connection to the incarnation of Jesus. Emphasizing Mary's crucial role as a virgin and mother in God's divine plan. Delving into the profound significance of Mary's virginal motherhood and her portrayal of ideal faith and obedience. Highlighting Mary's role in God's saving plan as the mother of Christ through the Holy Spirit. Discussing the deep connection between Mary and the Church as vessels of the Holy Spirit.

Mar 11, 2024 • 16min
Day 71: Mary’s Virginity (2024)
The podcast explores the theological significance of Mary as the mother of God, her virginal conception of Jesus, and her perpetual virginity. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of our Faith in understanding our Blessed Mother correctly. The episode delves into the belief in Mary's perpetual virginity and clarifies the misconception about Jesus' siblings being close relatives, not biological siblings.

Mar 10, 2024 • 13min
Day 70: The Immaculate Conception (2024)
Exploring the Immaculate Conception of Mary and why she was preserved from original sin, contrasting with Adam and Eve's fall. Fr. Mike surprises with his answer to why God didn't preserve everyone. The significance of Mary's role in redemption and her obedience compared to Eve. Delving into why the Immaculate Conception was necessary for Mary as the new Eve. Embracing God's call and grace in fulfilling unique vocations, drawing parallels with Mary's mission.

Mar 9, 2024 • 18min
Day 69: Born of the Virgin Mary (2024)
Explore Mary's pivotal role in salvation history, from being the Mother of God to cooperating in the redemption of the world. Understand the interconnectedness between beliefs about Mary and Christ, emphasizing her predestination and free choice to say 'yes' to God. Delve into the parallels between Mary and Eve in redemption, highlighting her immaculate conception and critical role in bringing freedom. Discover how doctrines about Mary ultimately direct attention to Jesus and her vital role in the salvation narrative.


