The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Calling all Moms and Dads! You might feel discouraged or frustrated as you parent and seek to keep your kids close to Christ. Today, Fr. Mike wants to share a word of encouragement with you! "Moms (and Dads), you're doing a great job!" You don't need to be perfect to get your kids to heaven. You must keep showing up and loving, and let God do the rest! Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 25 July 2024

Maybe you've heard the phrase before, "the middleman is a lie." Or maybe you've found yourself wondering why we have an institutional church as Catholics when the Scriptures state clearly that there is only one mediator between God and man, namely Jesus Christ. Today, Fr. Mike tackles this question and offers some guidance for those who may be tempted to get frustrated with the human and sometimes sinful element of the Catholic Church in its hierarchy and its members. Hint: It's another one of those "both/and" Catholic situations. Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2024

The Bible is the Word of God. It is a foundation of our faith. And it tells the story of the human race—a story that you're a part of. But... what exactly is that story? What's the narrative? If you only had 10 minutes to share it... what would you say? Ascension and Fr. Mike Schmitz—creators of the Bible in a Year podcast—teamed up to produce a beautiful, clear, shareable summary of the story of salvation: The Bible in 10 Minutes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jm3b4Q98Vx8. If you've never had the whole narrative summarized for you (or if you could use a refresher), this video will change your perspective on humanity's relationship with God.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2024

If you have a family member, friend, or loved one who is far from God, you're not alone. You're in good company—not the least of which is God the Father himself, who works so hard to unite us with himself. If someone you love has stopped going to Church, or isn't practicing the faith anymore, or hasn't yet said "yes" to Jesus to begin with, what is the best way to love them? Today, Fr. Mike has 4 simple things you can do to keep loving them on their faith journey, through all of the ups and downs. They're not easy to do, but they're always right.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 4 July 2024

Does a passing blue jay remind you of a deceased loved one? Does a specific number or color call their loss to your memory? Could they be speaking to you through these signs? Today, Fr. Mike opens up about navigating the loss of his own mother and finding hope and peace in the midst of that grief. The bottom line is, your loved ones can't cause these "signs" to happen—only God can work in nature in that way. But these unexpected occurrences can be a reminder to pray for your loved ones and to recall the gift of their lives. Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 27 June 2024

We've got a "Marriage Pop-Quiz" for you! Would you ditch your spouse to catch a flight? Imagine you're traveling with your spouse. They go to the bathroom while you wait for your flight to board. But they don't come back. And you're going to miss your flight. Should you board it and ditch your spouse? What would you do in this situation? According to Fr. Mike, there is only one correct answer to this question. And the answer might surprise you. Today, Fr. Mike shares a funny story about an older married couple's problem when traveling together and his shock and surprise at the variety of responses he received when asking other married couples what they would do in this situation.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2024

Momma always said, "Son, you don't like something? Well, offer it up!" Today, Fr. Mike explores the traditional understanding of offering up your pain, embracing your suffering, and making sacrifices in the spiritual life. Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2024

The sacraments that Christ gave his church are powerful. They are life changing. But... they are not magic. Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection makes salvation possible for all of us. But there is one key ingredient that only you can supply. Fr. Mike encourages you to give that key ingredient to God today.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 6 June 2024

If you're truly open-minded, you can find some truth in most religions. You can find plenty of goodness and beauty as well. But where is the whole truth of God—the "fullness of truth"? Fr. Mike makes the case for Catholic Christianity, and why you should settle for nothing less.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2024

When considering the people of the Old Testament before Jesus's coming, we might ask ourselves: "Are those without the knowledge of Jesus destined for eternal damnation?" And what about those who have never had an opportunity in our day and age to hear the name of Jesus and accept faith? "Where do they go when they die?" Today, Fr. Mike explores these tough questions, drawing on the sacred scriptures and the church's teachings on salvation. Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2024

Pope John Paul II said that what modern man needs—and is missing—is an "adequate anthropology", or, a full understanding of what it looks like to be human. Over the course of his pontificate, he gave it his best shot using the entirety of scripture, 2,000 years of church teaching, and the latest scientific understandings of the human person. Today, we call it the Theology of the Body. And it will change the way you look at yourself and your purpose in life. Fr. Mike Schmitz gives us an introduction to the Theology of the Body and invites us to his 4-part series diving deeper into these incredible mysteries. Sign up for the whole series for FREE here: https://www.ascensionpress.com/tobtalk/Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2024

Have you been confirmed? Have you received the Sacrament of Confirmation yet? Does this mean you're a "grown-up" Catholic now—that you've graduated? Not quite. There's so much more to it than that. Today, Fr. Mike breaks down the 5 effects that flow from receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2024

Is there any hope for unity in the United States of America? Fr. Mike gives a resounding "yes". But not over politics or policies—but the principles that our country was founded on. What's the difference between politics/policies and principles? Fr. Mike has a take that might make you think.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2024

A question to anyone who is thinking about rejecting Jesus (or has accepted him for that matter): have you even met him? Do you know who you are rejecting? You might think the answer is yes. The answer might even be yes. But Fr. Mike has something that every single one of us needs to consider before deciding whether or not to stick by Jesus and his Church.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2024

Have you ever had dark, disturbing dreams? If you did, did you feel guilty when you woke up? Did you have some vague sense of shame that such dreams came from your mind? If you’ve ever experienced this, you might have even wondered whether or not such dreams could be considered “sinful.” Fr. Mike is here today to give you the short answer—no, dreams themselves cannot be considered sinful—and the long answer… what are you doing during your waking hours that could be feeding these dark dreams?Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 19 April 2024

Does good prayer feel out of reach for you? Do distractions plague you unceasingly? Are you wondering if you're supposed to be getting more out of prayer time? Fr. Mike proposes a simple 4-part roadmap to better, more fulfilling prayer time. It's not difficult—it just takes practice.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2024

Who is orchestrating your life? If it's God—and not you—what will you say to him? Fr. Mike suggests trying "yes." Whether life circumstances bring the best out of you or the worst out of you, you need Jesus more than you think you do. And that is a very good thing. Here's why.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 4 April 2024

Do you have FOMO? Are you always worried about what you might miss out on? Today, Fr. Mike explores why this fear of missing out could be a gift in the spiritual life using the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ as he unravels how the disciples' FOMO led them to overlook a pivotal moment in history. The call is to BE fully present. Don't miss out on God moments. Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2024

Everyone bears burdens and faces unseen challenges. Leading a life filled with love is often the simplest path to personal growth. In this discussion, Fr. Mike delves into extending grace to strangers. A small gesture of kindness, such as offering a smile or lending a helping hand, can cultivate a community of grace and love. He reminds us that everyone navigates life's complexities differently. Fr. Mike emphasizes that acts of kindness and compassion pave the way for increased empathy and understanding, even towards those we have yet to encounter.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 21 March 2024

Fr. Mike Schmitz delves deeply into the profound significance of the leper's words to Jesus: 'If you will it, you can make me clean.' This verse from Matthew's Gospel embodies the very essence of faith. Fr. Mike explains how this statement captures the heart of faith in two ways: the trust inherent in believing that Christ can purify us and the trust involved in believing in him even if he chooses not to. Fr. Mike says this is the faith you are made for. It is the kind of faith that can change the world.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 14 March 2024

Do you know the true story of America's first canonized saint? "Cabrini," a movie from Angel Studios, tells the incredible true story of Mother Cabrini, the first American citizen to become a saint. It is a historical biopic showcasing her selfless service to the Italian immigrant population in the United States. Mother Cabrini's unwavering dedication to the dignity and respect of those in need reminds us to always look out for the ones still seeking a place at the table. Today, Fr. Mike shares his honest review of the film, "Cabrini." The movie is in theaters this weekend. He encourages you to allow the story of this remarkable saint to touch your heart and inspire you to make a difference in the world. Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 7 March 2024

"But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.'” - 1 Samuel 16:7 What does God see when he looks into our hearts? Does he see a humble, contrite and broken heart, that he will not spurn? Today Fr. Mike Schmitz shares a word of encouragement from the book of 1 Samuel for how to shape our hearts so that the Lord can be present to them and abide in them. Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 29 February 2024

St. Francis De Sales, often referred to as the "Saint-maker," liked to say, "Be who you are, and be that well." Each of us is called to pursue a life of holiness, a journey that unfolds uniquely for every individual. But comparing ourselves to others and judging ourselves harshly can be tempting. Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the harmful effects of comparison and invites us instead to focus on embracing our true identity and "paint our own sunrise."Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 22 February 2024

"Vanity of vanities! All is vanity!" Okay maybe not everything, but probably more than you thought. Vanity isn't just looking the mirror too much (although it could be). Vanity isn't just too much plastic surgery (although it could be). Vanity is "the inordinate preoccupation with what other people think." Fr. Mike suggests we look at our lives a little more closely with this new definition—and to look at Jesus for the solution.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 15 February 2024

When you clean and organize a room, you have to ask one very important question first: what is this room for? Once you can answer that, everything begins falling into place. In order to direct and order your own life, you must ask that same question. What is your life for? What is the primary purpose of the one life you've been given? Fr. Mike proposes that, when you can answer that question, everything in your life will begin falling into place for you. And he might even take a crack at answering that question for you.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 8 February 2024

We were all born sick. The sickness is Sin. It's not a tendency to sin that we brought upon ourselves... it's something we "caught" from our parents, that was passed down to us by our forefathers. This is Original Sin. ...but wait, how is that even fair?! Today, Fr. Mike reminds you that you are good and you were made good. But we are born with a wound that only our creator can heal.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 1 February 2024

Don't let anyone trick you into thinking life isn't hard. Experience tells us all that life is truly difficult at times. But even still... haven't you ever just wished it was easier? Today, Fr. Mike proposes an alternative to just wishing things were easier. When life gets difficult, there is only one way forward (hint: it's not just grinning and bearing it).Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 25 January 2024

What if there were no God? What does that idea look like if you follow it to its logical conclusion? It ain't pretty. Today, Fr. Mike shows us that meaning, dignity, and purpose come from the one who created everything. And the good news is that he made you on purpose, for a reason. And you matter.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 18 January 2024

God commands his beloved people all throughout scripture: "Remember." And this command continues to resound for us today. Remember the good that God has done for you. Remember the times he has delivered you. Remember when you thought you had nothing left but he gave you strength. Today, Fr. Mike beseeches us to remember in the darkness what God has revealed in the light, and to never forget what he's done for us.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 11 January 2024

Some of your favorite Bible characters were... terrible sometimes. Abraham lied and said Sarah wasn't his wife. Jacob tricked his father into giving him the birthright instead of his brother. And there are plenty of stories that aren't even appropriate enough to make it into a YouTube description. But what is the Bible? A collection of inspiring fables? Or the real story of humanity and God? For Fr. Mike, this is good news (and it should be for you too). Our favorite saints were just like us. And we can yes to God in all of our brokenness just like they did.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 4 January 2024

The angel Gabriel came to Mary and told her all about how she’d conceive and bear God’s son Jesus, and when she asked how this could be, he elaborated. Wouldn’t that be nice? Wouldn’t it be nice to have an angel show up and tell us what God’s plan for our life is? But... that’s not how it went. The angel actually told her very little. And after Mary’s “fiat” (“Let it be done unto me according to thy word”), what happens? “The angel departed.” That’s it. See, God probably won’t tell you what his plan is for your life. Not all at once. And Fr. Mike is here today to tell you why it’s actually better that way, and how we can follow Mary’s example of trust.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 28 December 2023

Have you ever heard the song "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day"? Have you listened to the lyrics carefully? It's not exactly the blissful naiveté of "Deck the Halls". It's much more real and raw than that. Today, Fr. Mike is here to remind us that although "hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth, good-will to men," the truth is that "God is not dead, nor doth He sleep; the wrong shall fail, the right prevail, with peace on earth, good-will to men."Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 21 December 2023

This is not the first video on Ascension Presents about how to overcome an addiction to pornography, but it might be one of the simplest and most actionable. Since 2000, Covenant Eyes has been a leader in the online accountability space. They are the #1 app for helping people find freedom from pornography. Their accountability software monitors images on device screens and sends a report to a trusted friend (ally) who holds you accountable for both your online and offline choices. Today, Fr. Mike asks you to make this the next step towards freedom for you or someone you love: covenanteyes.sjv.io/rQBEmvSupport The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 14 December 2023

If it feels like God isn't answering your prayers, that can be disheartening. But it can also be devastating. Today, Fr. Mike offers the good word that your God is your loving Father who wants to give you good things. But he also offers the reminder that God is not a genie over which we have control.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 7 December 2023

Are angels real? Why did God make them? What do guardian angels do? Do I have one? Does it have a name? Can I name it? ...All these questions and more answered today by Fr. Mike Schmitz.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 30 November 2023

"I don't... think... I'm prideful...?" Great! If you examine your actions and intentions and you don't detect any obvious pride, that's a wonderful thing. But as each one of us grows deeper in relationship with Jesus, he will reveal ever more nuanced ways that pride can sneak its way into our lives, giving us opportunities to reveal those places to Jesus and letting him perfect us. Today, Fr. Mike uncovers some of those sneaky areas of our life where pride can burrow itself and cause major problems.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 23 November 2023

If you've ever planned to become so holy that you don't need God's help anymore, then this video is for you. Self-reliance is a virtue lauded by modern society in the west. But not only does Jesus warn against it, self-reliance... just... doesn't even work. Today, Fr. Mike proposes an alternative that will change your life. Spoiler: it involves relying on someone else...Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 16 November 2023

Free will is an incredible gift from God that we often underestimate. We truly get to make a choice in every decision that we come across—even the smallest decisions. But guess what we DON'T get to choose? The consequences. Today, Fr. Mike reminds us that every action has a consequence built into it. So, if you want a certain result, make a choice. If you choose sin, you get sin. If you choose God, you get God. The choice... is yours.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 9 November 2023

Do you commit the same sins over and over again? Does it feel like a bad movie that you’re stuck watching, with the same sad script playing over and over again? Rewrite it. Rewrite the script. Today, Fr. Mike gives us some novel ideas for steering hard out of the “grooves” of sin we've worn deep into the bedrock of our daily lives.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 2 November 2023

Some people pour through comic books like they're devotional works, following the lives of superheroes like some study the lives of the saints. In this redux from the archives, Fr. Mike interviews sacred artist Neilson Carlin about the crossover between comics books and sacred art, and how the desire to emulate superheroes is truly fulfilled when we follow the saints to Christ. Be sure to check out Neilson's fine artwork (pun intended) at https://www.neilsoncarlin.com/Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 26 October 2023

Today, Ascension is pulling one out of the vault, and Fr. Mike tells you why your parish priest needs you (and how you can help). The value of a new parishioner introducing him or herself to the parish and just asking the priest, “How can I help?” is priceless. When entering a new community, we may have all of these ideas about what we can do to help, but to listen and simply tell the leaders that you are available shows humility and understanding. Fr. Mike knows firsthand about all of the different types of parishioners who are on fire for the Faith, and want to do something for their parish. The ones who end up helping the most are those who in essence say, “I am your servant. Tell me what I can do for you.”Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 19 October 2023

When we read the lives of the saints it can appear like prayer comes so easily to them; almost as if they were soaking in a hot tub of grace. But then when we go to pray we are confronted with the harsh reality that "Prayer is HARD." It can feel much more like struggling to swim laps in an Olympic sized pool. Today, Fr. Mike shares some wisdom from the fourth Pillar of the Catechism of the Catholic Church: Our Life in Prayer. – "Prayer is both a gift of grace and a determined response on our part. It always presupposes effort. The great figures of prayer of the Old Covenant before Christ, as well as the Mother of God, the saints, and he himself, all teach us this: prayer is a battle. Against whom? Against ourselves and against the wiles of the tempter who does all he can to turn man away from prayer, away from union with God. We pray as we live, because we live as we pray. If we do not want to act habitually according to the Spirit of Christ, neither can we pray habitually in his name. The "spiritual battle" of the Christian's new life is inseparable from the battle of prayer." CCC 2725Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 12 October 2023

When you're first growing in prayer and developing your relationship with Jesus, it is worth the effort to fight distractions in prayer. The more you can focus on our Lord, the more fruit you can see from prayer, and the deeper a bond you can experience with Jesus. But, let's be real—distraction is inevitable. It's human. And our brains are hardwired, in some ways, to move on to "the next thing". The Saints knew this, and there is an "advanced solution" to distraction in prayer—use it in prayer. Today, Fr. Mike tells us how.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 5 October 2023

They say that perfection is the enemy of the good. But what is true goodness in a pursuit? What does excellence actually look like and consist of? Today, Fr. Mike urges us to practice two qualities that lie at the heart of excellence: promptness and preparedness.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 28 September 2023

How do you know you've had an encounter with God? Sometimes it's hard to tell, especially if you were raised in the Faith. Today, Fr. Mike shares his own conversion story, and encourages us to think of a time or a season where you decided to devote your life to God, because Jesus was there in that time, even if you didn't realize it.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 21 September 2023

Grief is a human emotion and and affects each of us at one time or another. The Catholic Church in all her wisdom offers us this beautiful prayer in the rite of Christian burial: "Indeed for your faithful, Lord, life is changed not ended, and, when this earthly dwelling turns to dust, an eternal dwelling is made ready for them in heaven.” Continuing on the theme of death and grief, today, Fr. Mike offers a word of hope and encouragement to anyone who is grieving. Our grief as Christians should look different. We are called to grieve not like the rest. Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 14 September 2023

Everyone you know and love is going to die someday. You will too, but... the thought of losing everyone else can sometimes be all the more frightening. This is a natural response to the ugly, "unnatural" reality of death, and those feelings of fear are not "wrong" to feel. But, today, Fr. Mike implores you to take heart. There is yet one person who will never leave you.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 7 September 2023

Do aliens from outer space really exist? Did God create them? Are they intelligent? What does that mean for our faith? Today, Fr. Mike's answer might not be what you're looking for, but... it's the truth.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 31 August 2023

What if no one ever told you about Jesus? Your life probably wouldn't have so many rules. You wouldn't be as guilty for any sins you commit (you wouldn't even know they were sins in the first place). You wouldn't need to evangelize. And you wouldn't know that the God of the universe—your creator—loves you with a burning passion that you can't even imagine. Today, Fr. Mike makes the case that it is better to know Christ. It is better to live in the truth. And it is better to take on the challenge of Christian discipleship.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 25 August 2023

When things don't go the way we expect, it's hard not to be frustrated and disappointed. How do we move on after unmet expectations? And how do we break the vicious cycle? Today, Fr. Mike tells us how to keep it real.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 17 August 2023