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

Day 116: The Church Is Holy (2024)

Fr. Mike examines the next characteristic of the Church, the Church is holy, and he emphasizes two important ideas. The first is that the Church is unfailingly holy only because of God?s gracious gift to us. The second is that each and every one of the activities of the Church are for two purposes: the sanctification of men in Christ and the glorification of God. We conclude with a reminder from St. Therese on the importance of charity, that love of God is the ?vocation which includes all others.? Today?s readings from the Catechism are paragraphs 823-829. 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.

2024-04-25
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Day 115: Wounds to Unity (2024)

Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the wounds to the unity of Christ?s one, holy, Catholic, and apostolic Church. The Catechism emphasizes that people on both sides of this division are to blame for this broken unity. God did not intend for the disunity of Chrstians that we see today, but rather, intended for the unity of all Christians. Fr. Mike, therefore, concludes with asking us to pray and hope for the miracle of the unity, once again, of all Christians. Today?s readings from the Catechism are paragraphs 817-822. 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.

2024-04-24
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Day 114: The Church Is One (2024)

In this new paragraph?"The Church is One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic??the Catechism explains how and why the Church is ?One?. Fr. Mike highlights the many manifestations of the good that Jesus works through the Church, and he also urges us to cling to the ?visible bonds of unity? that Christ offers us. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 811-816. 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.

2024-04-23
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Day 113: The Temple of the Holy Spirit (2024)

?What the soul is to the human body, the Holy Spirit is to the Body of Christ, which is the Church.? The Catechism uncovers how the Holy Spirit truly builds up the whole Church in the name of Jesus. Fr. Mike dives into the incredibly diverse gifts that the Holy Spirit gives up for the building up of the Kingdom?the charisms. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 797-810. 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.

2024-04-22
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Day 112: The Church Is the Bride (2024)

Christ is the head of the Church. The Catechism describes Jesus? relationship to his Church as ?a personal relationship?expressed by the image of bridegroom and bride.? Fr. Mike points out how important this is by reminding us that, underneath all of the doctrine and the dogma, God is madly in love with you. If we always remember this love, everything else will fall into place. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 792-796. 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.

2024-04-21
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Day 111: The Church as the Body of Christ (2024)

?The Church is communion with Jesus.? The Catechism shows us what it means for the Church to be considered the ?body of Christ?. Fr. Mike explains how being part of the Church makes us ?united in him, in his body??more intimately connected with Jesus than even the Apostles were. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 787-791. 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.

2024-04-20
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Day 110: The People of God (2024)

God draws people to himself and makes them his own. The Catechism shows us what makes God?s people different from everyone else, and what it is that unites them. Fr. Mike hones in on what exactly it is that the People of God do, and exhorts us to start doing that right here, today. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 781-786. 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.

2024-04-19
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Day 109: Mystery of Union With God (2024)

Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780. 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.

2024-04-18
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Day 108: Revealed by the Holy Spirit (2024)

Jesus Christ established the Church, but the Holy Spirit continually sanctifies the Church with wisdom, guidance, and charismatic gifts. The Church?s mission is to proclaim and establish the beginning of God?s Kingdom on earth, and we participate in this mission through charity, humility, and self-denial. Fr. Mike helps us understand the seemingly paradoxical idea that the Church is visible and spiritual, both human and Divine. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 767-771. 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.

2024-04-17
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Day 107: Origin of the Church (2024)

The origin of the Church is just one of the ways we can come to know the depth of God?s love for us. From the very beginning, the Church, as a gathering of the people of God, has been a plan born of the Father?s heart. Fr. Mike explains that Jesus Christ instituted the Church, that salvation comes to us through the Holy Spirit in the Church, and that this was God?s plan from the very beginning of time. The Church is not man-made; the Church is God-made, and it is a great gift to us. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 758-766. 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.

2024-04-16
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Day 106: Symbols of the Church (2024)

There are many different symbols of the Church that can help us to understand it. We learn some of these symbols today, including a sheepfold, a cultivated field, the building of God, the spotless lamb, the bride of Christ, and our mother. Fr. Mike reminds us that, like us, the Church on earth needs constant reform. Jesus loves the Church and gave himself up for her. If we have any hostility or indifference toward the Church, we must check our hearts and pray to love what God loves. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 753-757 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.

2024-04-15
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Day 105: Christ?s Church and its Mission (2024)

The Church has no other light than Christ's, and the Holy Spirit is the source of all its holiness. We believe that the Church is "holy," "catholic," "one," and "apostolic." Fr. Mike explains that Jesus has promised to guide the Church in the truth. Members of the Church are called and uniquely belong to the Lord. We also learn that the word 'church' has three inseparable meanings: the liturgical assembly, the local community, and the universal community of believers. The Church draws her life from the body of Christ and so becomes Christ's body. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 748-752. 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.

2024-04-14
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Day 104: The Holy Spirit and the Church (2024)

As we conclude this article on the Holy Spirit, the Catechism teaches us today about the relationship between the Holy Spirit and the Church. Fr. Mike breaks down the four main ways the Holy Spirit is active in the mission of Christ and how the life of the Church completes that mission. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 737-747. 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.

2024-04-13
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Day 103: The Power of Pentecost (2024)

Pentecost marks the beginning of the age of the Church, the time in which the Kingdom is inherited but not fully consummated. Today, we dive into the meaning and significance of Pentecost for our lives. Fr. Mike explains how the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost fulfills Christ?s Passover. On that glorious day, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit fully revealed themselves in the Trinity. We also learn how the Holy Spirit heals our wounded nature and empowers us to love as God loves through the various gifts of the Spirit. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 731-736. 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.

2024-04-12
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Day 102: The Holy Spirit?s Mission

The working of the Holy Spirit in and through Mary and the Son is a pivotal part of God's plan of salvation. The Catechism today reveals to us how the Holy Spirit prepared Mary to fulfill the Father's plan and manifest the Son to humanity. We also learn how the Holy Spirit and the Son work together in a joint mission. Finally, Fr. Mike highlights how Mary's humility is essential to her role as the "masterwork of the mission of the Son and the Spirit in the fullness of time." Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 721-730. 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.

2024-04-11
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Day 101: Expecting the Messiah (2024)

Fr. Mike continues to explore the joint mission of the Word and Spirit in the Old and New Testaments. Together, we unpack how the Holy Spirit has been moving the prophets, particularly the prophet Isaiah. We learn how the characteristics of the Messiah are revealed, above all, in the ?Servant Songs.? We also examine the Holy Spirit?s role in John the Baptist recognizing Christ as Messiah, even from within the womb. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 711-720. 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.

2024-04-10
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Day 100: God?s Word and Spirit (2024)

Together with Fr. Mike, we unpack the joint mission of God?s Word and the Spirit in the Old and New Testaments. Fr. Mike emphasizes the Spirit?s role in creation, the theophanies, and the Law. We conclude today?s reflection with an examination of the prefiguration of the Church in the exile of the people of God in the Old Testament. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 702-710. 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.

2024-04-09
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Day 99: Symbols of the Holy Spirit (2024)

Fr. Mike explores the different symbols the faithful use when discussing the Holy Spirit, such as fire, water, and anointing. We examine how these symbols help us more fully apprehend the person of the Holy Spirit. Fr. Mike unpacks the meaning of each symbol, as well as each symbol's connection to the Old Testament. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 694-701. 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.

2024-04-08
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Day 98: The Son and the Spirit (2024)

Fr. Mike continues to examine the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit?s mission. We explore the joint mission of the Son and the Holy Spirit. When the Son and the Spirit act, they act together. Fr. Mike emphasizes that though the Son and the Spirit are two distinct persons, they are inseparable. We also examine the proper name of the Holy Spirit and the different titles we use for the Holy Spirit. Today?s readings from the Catechism are paragraphs 689-693. 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.

2024-04-07
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Day 97: Introduction to the Holy Spirit (2024)

Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin our examination of the Third Person of the Holy Trinity, the Holy Spirit, and how God reveals himself as the Holy Spirit in our lives. Fr. Mike emphasizes the words of St. Irenaeus that, ?in order to be touched by Christ, we must first be touched by the Holy Spirit.? We also explore eight ways the Catechism lays out for us to be able to understand the Holy Spirit. Today?s readings are Catechism Paragraphs 683-688. 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.

2024-04-06
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Day 96: The Church?s Ultimate Trial (2024)

The Catechism concludes the section on The Son with an examination of the final trial and judgment that will happen before Christ?s Second Coming. This final trial will involve the "supreme religious deception" of the Antichrist, a deception that has already been present at various times in human history. Fr. Mike emphasizes that apostasy is a dramatic turning away from what we hold to be true. He reminds us that no other person can usher in the Messianic Age other than Christ. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 675-682. 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.

2024-04-05
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Day 95: Christ?s Reign on Earth (2024)

Together, with Fr. Mike, we explore Christ?s reign on earth. We examine the reality of Christ?s reign as both ?already? and ?not yet.? For, even though Christ reigns on earth, we are still waiting for the fulfillment of his kingdom. Because, while the Church is Christ?s kingdom on earth, it is endowed with a ?sanctity that is real but imperfect.? Fr. Mike also reiterates that Jesus Christ is truly the fulfillment of every promise made to Israel in the Old Testament. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 668-674. 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.

2024-04-04
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Day 94: Christ?s Ascension into Heaven (2024)

The Catechism unpacks the line from the Creed, ?He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.? Fr. Mike highlights the reality that we do not have direct access to the Father without his Son, Jesus. Christ?s ascension into heaven means, ?the irreversible entry of his humanity into divine glory,? uniting our humanity with God?s divinity in a remarkable way?which finds its earthly culmination in the Holy Mass. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 659-667. 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.

2024-04-03
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Day 93: The Meaning of the Resurrection (2024)

The Catechism wraps up its discussion surrounding Article 5 of the Creed (?He descended into hell; on the third day he rose again from the dead?) and asks the question, ?What does Jesus? resurrection mean for me?? Fr. Mike points out that Christ?s resurrection proves?definitively?that he is the only begotten Son of God. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 651-658. 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.

2024-04-02
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Day 92: The Man of Heaven (2024)

The Catechism demonstrates how Christ?s resurrection is ?essentially different? from other cases of resurrection in the Bible and shows us how his rising from the dead is a ?work of the Holy Trinity.? Fr. Mike emphasizes that Jesus was not merely ?resuscitated? from the dead, as Jairus? daughter or Lazarus, but he rose from the dead glorified, ?filled with the power of the Holy Spirit.? Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 645-650. 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.

2024-04-01
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Day 91: Christ Rose from the Dead (2024)

The Catechism tackles Jesus? bodily resurrection from the dead which is the ?the crowning truth of our faith in Christ". Fr. Mike makes sure we understand that Christ's resurrection cannot be interpreted as a legend or a metaphor, but as a true, historical fact. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 638-644. 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.

2024-03-31
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Day 90: Christ Descended into Hell (2024)

Have you ever said the words from the Creed at Mass, ?he descended into hell? and wondered, ?Really? Jesus did? Why?? The Catechism shares the secrets of this line from the Creed and shows us how Jesus? descent into hell ?brings the Gospel message of salvation to complete fulfillment.? Fr. Mike makes it clear to us that Jesus did not come to save only the righteous who happened to be alive during his time here on earth, but he came to save all those righteous men and women who came before him and would come after him. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 631-637. 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.

2024-03-30
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Day 89: Jesus Christ Was Buried (2024)

When he was crucified, Jesus experienced a real human death, the separation of his soul from his body. Because of his divinity, though, Jesus? body did not see corruption, and his body and soul were reunited in the Resurrection. The risen Christ is the meeting point of death and life. We learn that as Christians, in Baptism, we die to sin, are buried with Christ, and then in him, we rise to new life. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraph 624-630. 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.

2024-03-29
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Day 88: Christ?s Definitive Sacrifice (2024)

Christ?s death is the unique and definitive sacrifice. It is both the Paschal Sacrifice that accomplishes redemption and the sacrifice of the New Covenant that restores man?s communion with God. Fr. Mike tell us that Jesus Christ is the one mediator, and yet invites us to participate in his sacrifice when he calls on us to take up our crosses and follow him. When we accept our sufferings out of love, we are united to Christ. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 613-623. 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.

2024-03-28
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Day 87: Christ?s Life as Offering (2024)

Jesus Christ?s entire life was an offering to God the Father, and he freely embraced God?s will and his plan for salvation. We learn that the Eucharist memorializes Jesus? free offering of himself. In the garden, the night before his Passion and death, Jesus suffered real agony as he contemplated his death, yet he accepted his death as redemptive. Fr. Mike invites us to participate in this redemption by attending Mass and receiving the Eucharist. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 606-612. 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.

2024-03-27
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Day 86: God?s Plan of Salvation (2024)

How can we have free will if the Scriptures foretell God?s plan of salvation? This is a great mystery and something we might struggle to understand. Fr. Mike explains what it means to say God?s plan of predestination includes God?s permissive will, each person?s free will, and human beings? response to the Father?s grace. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 599-605. 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.

2024-03-26
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Day 85: The Trial of Christ (2024)

In this reading, we learn that all sinners are the authors of Christ?s Passion. We do not blame the Jews for the Crucifixion of Jesus as we know that it is our own sins that caused his Passion and death. Fr. Mike tells us that the Jews are not collectively responsible for Jesus? death, and they should not be spoken of as rejected or cursed. We?re reminded that when we choose sin and deny Christ by our deeds, we crucify him anew in our hearts. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 595-598. 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.

2024-03-25
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Day 84: The Claim of Savior (2024)

Jesus' claim that he is the one true God and the world's savior was the stumbling block for many Jews. Fr. Mike explains why Jesus' invitation to the Jewish people to have faith in him was a challenging task. We learn that hardness of heart and unbelief led the Pharisees to a tragic misunderstanding of Jesus. We are also at risk of such error, and recognizing our hardness of heart can help us to grow in faith. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 587-594. 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.

2024-03-24
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Day 83: Jesus and the Temple (2024)

Given that the Temple was at the heart of Jewish life and worship, Jesus? relationship with the Temple speaks volumes. Fr. Mike highlights Jesus? reverence for the Temple and unpacks the remarkable implications of Jesus? prophecy about the destruction of the Temple. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 583-586. 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.

2024-03-23
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Day 82: Jesus and the Law (2024)

What is Jesus? relationship with the Old Testament Law? Our Catechism readings today reveal that Jesus is the Author of the Law who provides the definitive interpretation of the Law. We learn that Jesus did not come to abolish the Law but rather to fulfill the Law in its totality. Fr. Mike also clarifies the difference between Temple Laws, Kingdom Laws, and Moral Laws in Scripture. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 577-582. 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.

2024-03-22
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Day 81: Christ?s Paschal Mystery (2024)

Fr. Mike begins his examination of the Paschal Mystery of Christ?s passion, death, and ultimate Resurrection. He emphasizes that all of Scripture points to this Paschal Mystery, and that through our faith, we can try to examine the circumstances of Jesus? life to fully understand our own redemption. We also explore Jesus? relationship with Israel and our own relationship with our Jewish forefathers. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 571-576. 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.

2024-03-21
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Day 80: Summary of the Mysteries of Christ?s Life (2024)

We have arrived at another nugget day, or In Brief day, for the paragraphs on the mysteries of Christ?s life. On today?s ?mystery nugget? day, Fr. Mike recounts the significance of Christ?s obedience to the Father and our own obedience to God?s will. He also emphasizes the importance of reflecting on the mysteries of Christ?s life by reading and meditating on the Gospels and praying the Rosary. Today?s readings from the Catechism are paragraphs 561-570. 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.

2024-03-20
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Day 79: Jesus? Transfiguration and Messianic Acts (2024)

Together, with Fr. Mike, we explore both the mystery of Christ?s Transfiguration and the mystery of his messianic entrance into Jerusalem. We examine how the Transfiguration reveals that Christ?s death was a voluntary act, and that he is truly the ?splendor of the Father.? Fr. Mike emphasizes the incredible parallel between Christ?s baptism and Transfiguration. That, on the threshold of his public life, we witness Christ?s baptism, and on the threshold of the Passion, we witness the Transfiguration. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 554-560. 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.

2024-03-19
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Day 78: Signs of the Kingdom (2024)

Fr. Mike unpacks the signs of the kingdom of God that Christ performed while on Earth. These signs of the kingdom are a way for us to see that Jesus is not just ?another prophet? but is, in fact, the Son of God. Fr. Mike reminds us that these miracles and signs can strengthen the faith, but they can also be opportunities for ?offense.? We also examine the authority that Christ entrusts to St. Peter, and his unique role within the college of apostles, just like the unique role the Holy Father has within the Church today. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 547-553. 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.

2024-03-18
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Day 77: The Kingdom of God (2024)

Fr. Mike explores Jesus? mission of establishing the kingdom of God on earth, and who belongs in the kingdom of Heaven: all people. We see how Jesus identifies himself with the poor, lowly, and those who the world says are not important. If we do not welcome them, we cannot enter the kingdom. Fr. Mike challenges us to examine the fact that in order to gain entry into the kingdom, ?one must give everything. Words are not enough; deeds are required.? Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 541-546. 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.

2024-03-17
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Day 76: Jesus? Baptism and Temptation (2024)

Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the mysteries of Jesus' Baptism and temptation in the wilderness. Fr. Mike unpacks how Jesus? Baptism is yet another Epiphany or manifestation of Christ as Messiah. We also explore Christ?s acceptance of his mission as God?s suffering servant. Fr. Mike emphasizes that Jesus? temptations in the desert mirror the temptations of Adam in the garden, but, unlike Adam, Jesus does not succumb to these temptations. He remains faithful to the Father. Through this obedience to the Divine Will, he conquers the Devil, and in our own obedience, we are participating in this victory. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 535-540. 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.

2024-03-16
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Day 75: Jesus? Infancy and Hidden Life (2024)

Fr. Mike explores the mystery of Jesus? infancy and hidden life. We first take a look at Jesus? Baptism, circumcision, and the Epiphany. Fr. Mike discusses that Jesus? circumcision shows us that salvation comes from the Jews. The Epiphany shows us that salvation does not stop there, it extends to all of us. Later, we examine Jesus? hidden life. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of Jesus? obedience to not just his Father in Heaven, but to his earthly father and mother as well, and how we can imitate that obedience. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 527-534. 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.

2024-03-15
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Day 74: The Christmas Mystery (2024)

Diving deeper into Jesus Christ as Mystery, the Catechism describes the deep mystery in the preparations for Christ?s coming?also known as Advent?as well as the mystery of his first coming in Christmas. Fr. Mike points to one of the last sentences of today?s readings??Only when Christ is formed in us will the mystery of Christmas be fulfilled in us??and reminds us that Jesus is the star of the story, not us. Our goal is to become children in relation to God. ?He must increase, but I must decrease.? Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 522-526. 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.

2024-03-14
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Day 73: Christ?s Life Is Mystery (2024)

Many of the things we?d like to know about Jesus? life we don?t know, but remember, as Fr. Mike has told us, a Christian mystery is not ?a case to be solved.? It?s a beauty to bathe in. The Catechism explains the three characteristics common to each of Christ?s mysteries: revelation, redemption, and recapitulation. Fr. Mike shows how we are to participate in the mysteries of Christ. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 512-521. 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.

2024-03-13
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Day 72: Mary?s Motherhood (2024)

For those with any lingering doubts or questions, the Catechism offers five reasons for Mary?s perpetual virginity. Fr. Mike digs into each reason and explains what each of them means for us as spiritual sons and daughters of our Immaculate Mother. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 502-511. 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.

2024-03-12
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Day 71: Mary?s Virginity (2024)

The Catechism tackles a few important issues regarding Mary, the mother of God?her motherhood, her virginal conception of Jesus, and her perpetual virginity. Fr. Mike reminds us that, regardless of the opinions of translators and modern theologians, our Faith steers us towards a correct understanding of our Blessed Mother. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 495-501. 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.

2024-03-11
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Day 70: The Immaculate Conception (2024)

The Catechism introduces us to Mary?s Immaculate Conception and explains why God preserved her ?immune from all stain of original sin.? Fr. Mike answers a common question asked in response to this revelation: ?Why didn?t God just preserve us all from original sin?? His answer might surprise you. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 490-494. 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.

2024-03-10
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Day 69: Born of the Virgin Mary (2024)

Fr. Mike helps us to understand Mary?s role in the history of salvation. Through her belief and obedience, Mary becomes the Mother of God, and she cooperates in the redemption of the entire world. God?s glory is manifested when he uses weak and powerless people to show forth his faithfulness. What we believe about Mary is based on what we believe about Christ, and what the Church teaches about Mary illuminates our faith in Christ. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 484-489. 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.

2024-03-09
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Day 68: The Mystery of the Incarnation (2024)

We learn more about Jesus Christ?s nature as fully God and fully human. Because he was fully human, ?like us in all things but sin,? Jesus had a human will that was perfectly aligned with the will of God the Father, a human body that can be seen and venerated, and a human heart with which he loves us. Fr. Mike sums up the teachings in recent readings by reviewing that the Incarnation is the mystery of the union of the divine and human natures in the one person of the Word. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 475-483. 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.

2024-03-08
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Day 67: The Humanity and Divinity of Christ (2024)

Fr. Mike teaches us more about the divine and human natures of the second person of the Holy Trinity, the Word that became flesh, Jesus Christ. Jesus became like us in all things but sin; as such, he has a human soul, intellect, will, and body without losing any of his divinity. Father Mike tells us that in his human nature, Jesus thought with a human mind, worked with human hands, and loved with a human heart. Christ needed to learn things, and he increased in wisdom and understanding. The full humanity and true divinity of Jesus is a great mystery of our faith. Today?s readings are Catechism paragraphs 470-474. 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.

2024-03-07
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