Exploring the importance of Confirmation, receiving God's gifts, and having a genuine desire for the sacrament. Emphasizing the need to use these gifts and the significance of readiness for Confirmation.

Discussing the importance of who should receive Confirmation and who can act as the minister of the sacrament. Highlighting the significance of completing Christian initiation through Confirmation and selecting a sponsor to help grow in the Faith. Exploring how the minister of Confirmation ties us to the apostolic succession.

Exploring the celebration and effects of Confirmation, emphasizing the empowerment to spread and defend the Faith. Encouraging responsibility to boldly share the Gospel message with the world.

Fr. Mike discusses the differences between Eastern and Western traditions in Confirmation. He also explores the symbolism of oil and anointing in the sacrament, highlighting the spiritual significance and historical development of these practices.

We begin our examination of the sacrament of Confirmation. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the reception of Confirmation is necessary for the completion and strengthening of baptismal grace. He also highlights the vital importance of the reception of Confirmation because it gives us the power to be a witness to God’s grace on earth, just as the Apostles received that same power at Pentecost. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1285-1289. 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 podcast delves into the essence of Baptism as a grace and gift from God, devoid of human merit. It serves as a concise guide for explaining Baptism, emphasizing its transformative power, forgiveness of sins, and incorporation into the Church and priesthood of Christ.

Discover how Baptism unites believers as part of the 'People of God of the New Covenant' according to the Catechism. Learn about the responsibilities that come with this unity and the foundation it provides for communion among all Christians. Explore the significance of Baptism in fostering a communal connection and the privileges associated with this sacrament.

Baptism has profound effects upon the baptized: “purification from sins and new birth in the Holy Spirit.” The Catechism shows us that the graces of Baptism are so deep that—for the newly baptized—“nothing remains that would impede their entry into the Kingdom of God.” Fr. Mike relates to us the hard teaching that we are born mere beloved creatures of God—but through Baptism, we become adopted sons and daughters of God. Today’s readings are paragraphs 1262-1266. 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.

Exploring the importance of Baptism in the Christian faith, discussing the necessity for eternal life. Addressing 'what about' questions regarding Baptism, especially for those who never hear the Gospel. Delving into the fate of those who die without the opportunity for Baptism. Emphasizing the intertwining of faith and Baptism for spiritual growth and salvation.

The podcast delves into the purpose of Baptism for both adults and infants, emphasizing that it is for everyone. It explains that every unbaptized person is eligible for Baptism, as God wills it for all. The episode covers Catechism paragraphs 1246-1252 and explores the inclusive nature of God's grace through infant baptism in the early Church.