The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision. 🙏 Pray with us for free on the Ascension App! https://link.ascension-app.com/Conclave Romans 12:4-5: “For as in one body we have many members, and all the members do not have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.” O God, we pray in union with the whole Church for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Cardinals. Holy Spirit, we ask you to guide the Cardinals through the conclave and grant them wisdom, courage, hope, and charity. We pray that the Cardinals may listen attentively to you, and ask you to grant them the faith to discern your holy will. Heavenly Father, we beseech you, protect and guide your Church during this conclave. Grant us, in your great love, a Pope who guides your Church to grow in faithfulness towards you. May he be a shepherd of profound faith and hope, leading your Church ever closer to you. We pray, in Jesus’ name, together with the intercession of Mary and all the Saints. “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created, and you shall renew the face of the earth.”Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2025

Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision. 🙏 Pray with us right here on YouTube, or for free on the Ascension App! https://link.ascension-app.com/Conclave Jeremiah 3:15: “And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding” O God, we pray in union with the whole Church for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Cardinals. Holy Spirit, we ask you to guide the Cardinals through the conclave and grant them wisdom, courage, hope, and charity. We pray that the Cardinals may listen attentively to you, and ask you to grant them the faith to discern your holy will. Heavenly Father, we beseech you, protect and guide your Church during this conclave. Grant us, in your great love, a Pope who guides your Church to grow in faithfulness towards you. May he be a shepherd of profound faith and hope, leading your Church ever closer to you. We pray, in Jesus’ name, together with the intercession of Mary and all the Saints. “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created, and you shall renew the face of the earth.”Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision. Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." O God, we pray in union with the whole Church for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Cardinals. Holy Spirit, we ask you to guide the Cardinals through the conclave and grant them wisdom, courage, hope, and charity. We pray that the Cardinals may listen attentively to you, and ask you to grant them the faith to discern your holy will. Heavenly Father, we beseech you, protect and guide your Church during this conclave. Grant us, in your great love, a Pope who guides your Church to grow in faithfulness towards you. May he be a shepherd of profound faith and hope, leading your Church ever closer to you. We pray, in Jesus’ name, together with the intercession of Mary and all the Saints. “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created, and you shall renew the face of the earth.”Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2025

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Transcribed - Published: 4 May 2025

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Transcribed - Published: 3 May 2025

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Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

It looked good. The acting was great. The plot was interesting. But what was at the heart of the hit movie Conclave? And what can we learn ahead of this real-life conclave? Fr. Mike Schmitz gives us his take on the movie and dissects the problematic assumptions behind Conclave—and encourages us in our own faith journeys. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at https://www.AscensionPress.com/FrMike... May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT] May 22 - Nashville, TN Join Fr. Mike live for an unforgettable event as he unpacks the parables of Jesus. This is your chance to experience his powerful message in person! 🙏 Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision. 🙏 Pray with us right here on YouTube, or for free on the Ascension App! https://link.ascension-app.com/Conclave Matthew 16:15-18: “He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Simon Peter replied, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’ And Jesus answered him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jona! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.” O God, we pray in union with the whole Church for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Cardinals. Holy Spirit, we ask you to guide the Cardinals through the conclave and grant them wisdom, courage, hope, and charity. We pray that the Cardinals may listen attentively to you, and ask you to grant them the faith to discern your holy will. Heavenly Father, we beseech you, protect and guide your Church during this conclave. Grant us, in your great love, a Pope who guides your Church to grow in faithfulness towards you. May he be a shepherd of profound faith and hope, leading your Church ever closer to you. We pray, in Jesus’ name, together with the intercession of Mary and all the Saints. “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created, and you shall renew the face of the earth.”Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision. John 16:13: "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own but will only repeat what he has heard. He will receive what is from me and announce it to you." O God, we pray in union with the whole Church for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Cardinals. Holy Spirit, we ask you to guide the Cardinals through the conclave and grant them wisdom, courage, hope, and charity. We pray that the Cardinals may listen attentively to you, and ask you to grant them the faith to discern your holy will. Heavenly Father, we beseech you, protect and guide your Church during this conclave. Grant us, in your great love, a Pope who guides your Church to grow in faithfulness towards you. May he be a shepherd of profound faith and hope, leading your Church ever closer to you. We pray, in Jesus’ name, together with the intercession of Mary and all the Saints. “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created, and you shall renew the face of the earth.”Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2025

Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision. John 17:21: "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world, but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of it. Sanctify them by your truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. For their sake I sanctify myself, that they too may be sanctified by the truth." O God, we pray in union with the whole Church for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Cardinals. Holy Spirit, we ask you to guide the Cardinals through the conclave and grant them wisdom, courage, hope, and charity. We pray that the Cardinals may listen attentively to you, and ask you to grant them the faith to discern your holy will. Heavenly Father, we beseech you, protect and guide your Church during this conclave. Grant us, in your great love, a Pope who guides your Church to grow in faithfulness towards you. May he be a shepherd of profound faith and hope, leading your Church ever closer to you. We pray, in Jesus’ name, together with the intercession of Mary and all the Saints. “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created, and you shall renew the face of the earth.”Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2025

In the wake of Pope Francis’s passing, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares a powerful reflection on loss, legacy, and the enduring mission of the Church. He reminds us that while every soul is uniquely irreplaceable, the roles we hold can be entrusted to others because our identity is rooted not in what we do, but in who we are. May this truth bring you great hope as we look ahead to the future of the Church, and reflect on our own lives. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at https://www.AscensionPress.com/FrMike...! May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT] May 22 - Nashville, TN Join Fr. Mike live for an unforgettable event as he unpacks the parables of Jesus. This is your chance to experience his powerful message in person! 🙏 Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 26 April 2025

Do you struggle to get much out of prayer? Do you feel like God’s not speaking to you? Today, Fr. Mike Schmitz invites us to deepen our prayer life by asking two essential questions: “What am I looking for?” and “What am I listening for?” Drawing from the rich tradition of Ignatian spirituality, he guides us in using our imagination and five senses to cultivate a more intimate and personal encounter with God.​ Whether you're new to prayer or seeking a more profound connection, this practical approach can transform your spiritual practice.​ Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour! May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT] May 22 - Nashville, TN Join Fr. Mike live for an unforgettable event as he unpacks the parables of Jesus. This is your chance to experience his powerful message in person! 🙏 Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2025

As we journey through Holy Week, let's pause before rushing to Easter. This sacred time invites us to reflect deeply on Jesus' message to His disciples and to us: "Stay with me." Today, Fr. Mike Schmitz emphasizes the power of simply being present with Jesus. He reminds us that during this solemn week, Jesus isn't asking for our perfection or strength — He desires our presence. By staying with Him, we open ourselves to the transformative grace of Holy Week. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour! May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT] May 22 - Nashville, TN Join Fr. Mike live for an unforgettable event as he unpacks the parables of Jesus. This is your chance to experience his powerful message in person! 🙏 Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2025

Do miracles occur more frequently in the Bible or in today's world? Why do some of my prayers for miracles seem unanswered? Today, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the mystery of miracles, explaining how they are recognized and validated in the Catholic Church, and exploring why God sometimes grants miracles and other times does not. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour! May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT] May 22 - Nashville, TN Join Fr. Mike live for an unforgettable event as he unpacks the parables of Jesus. This is your chance to experience his powerful message in person! Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2025

Attending Sunday Mass is essential in the Catholic faith, and intentionally missing Mass is a mortal sin, which requires confession before you can receive communion again. However, did you know that if you have a serious and legitimate reason for being unable to attend Mass, you can request a dispensation from your priest? Today, Fr. Mike explains that while missing Mass and requesting a dispensation should not become a regular occurrence, it is possible under certain valid circumstances. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour! May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT] May 22 - Nashville, TN Join Fr. Mike live for an unforgettable event as he unpacks the parables of Jesus. This is your chance to experience his powerful message in person! Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2025

Are you a child of the light or a child of darkness? Today, Fr. Mike reminds us that, though we are all born with original sin, God offers us the transformative gift of baptism, bringing us into His Kingdom of light. Let us not delay in surrendering our lives to Christ through the sacrament of baptism. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour! May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT] May 22 - Nashville, TN Join Fr. Mike live for an unforgettable event as he unpacks the parables of Jesus. This is your chance to experience his powerful message in person! Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2025

When you think of holiness, what comes to mind? Is it a saint who has never stumbled? Does the idea of holiness feel out of reach when you're grappling with your own brokenness or the weight of your sins? Today, Fr. Mike reminds us that the journey to holiness isn’t always a straight path. There are both good days and bad. Yet, despite our flaws and failures, God’s grace and mercy remain abundant, offering hope and renewal. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour! May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT] May 22 - Nashville, TN Join Fr. Mike live for an unforgettable event as he unpacks the parables of Jesus. This is your chance to experience his powerful message in person! Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2025

Do you struggle with taking the Lord’s name in vain or with cussing? Are you trying to avoid cussing entirely, but are still saying something crude? Today, Fr. Mike shares the distinction between the words we use regarding foul language. Because our words reveal our hearts, our words matter greatly. Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2025

Should you give things up for Lent, or take new things on? Is it better to pray more, or to give more of your time away? How does almsgiving fit into all of this? This Lent, Fr. Mike wants to refocus your efforts by trying a new idea: do something with zero benefit to yourself. This is how to do that and why it works. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour! May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH May 22 - Nashville, TN Join Fr. Mike live for an unforgettable event as he unpacks the parables of Jesus. This is your chance to experience his powerful message in person! Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2025

If you're Catholic, you're probably aware that not every wedding is the same in the eyes of the Church. You may have heard of situations—or been in ones yourself—where you're not sure if it's okay for you, as a practicing Catholic, to attend such a wedding. How do you know when it's okay and when it's not okay? Fr. Mike not only gives us a couple of guiding principles but also breaks down most of the situations you might find yourself in and tells us what Jesus and his Church asks of us.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 27 February 2025

“My God, my God why have you abandoned me?” Psalm 22:1 Are you praying everyday but still suffering? Are you doing all the right things but your heart is still broken? Fr. Mike shares with us today that God doesn’t promise all our desires, but promises that He will be with us though them all, that He loves us and the He hears every one of our prayers and gives us what we need. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour! March 1 - North Charleston, SC May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH May 22 - Nashville, TN Join Fr. Mike live for an unforgettable event as he unpacks the parables of Jesus. This is your chance to experience his powerful message in person! 🙏 Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 20 February 2025

Are you afraid to approach God? Jesus says, "When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them... But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you." Matthew 6:5-6 Fr. Mike reminds us that God sees us, notices us and cares for us. Don't be afraid to approach the throne of grace. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour!Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2025

Loyalty is a powerful virtue—but can it become dangerous? Loyalty is seen as a sought-after virtue, even being the foundation of relationships. However, can loyalty be disordered? Can being loyal to the wrong things cost you your soul? Fr. Mike reveals to us that loyalty, when placed in the wrong order, is dangerous and can even lead to idolatry. What does your loyalty hierarchy look like?Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2025

Spoiler: Fr. Mike thinks the music is great. But other than that... there are some major problems here.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2025

"Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven." Matthew 12:31 What is the sin "against the Spirit"? What is the sin that God can't forgive? Fr. Mike reveals to us that this sin is... any sin. Today, he explains how that's possible and how we can lean on God's goodness and mercy for salvation.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 23 January 2025

What does true humility really look like? Some may believe that a humble person must diminish themselves, becoming small or insignificant. But is that truly the essence of humility? Fr. Mike Schmitz offers a deeper perspective on what it means to be truly humble. He explains that humility actually requires both confidence and honesty. When we speak the truth and live authentically in that truth, we embody the heart of true humility.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2025

Stoicism has its roots in Ancient Greece and Rome (300 BC) but it's seen a resurgence on social media in recent years. Stoic virtues like prudence, fortitude, and self-control can be very attractive, and Christians might wonder, "is Stoicism compatible with my faith?" The answer is: yes and no. Fr. Mike breaks down the good and true aspects of Stoicism—and he also uncovers where it falls short, and only Christianity can bridge the gap.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 9 January 2025

If you've tried and tried but you keep falling down and you're tired of starting over... this video is for you. Fr. Mike lays out a plan to start again and keep going, no matter the struggle, and shares the secret that makes it possible.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 2 January 2025

Just because it's "the most wonderful time of the year" doesn't mean that everything is working out for you. But if tough times have actually given way to full-blown discouragement for you this Christmas, Fr. Mike has a word for you: "Emmanuel". On behalf of Fr. Mike and everyone here at Ascension, Merry Christmas to you and all of your loved ones. God bless you this Jubilee Year 2025!Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 26 December 2024

"Does God take us when he feels like our time here is over?" Fr. Mike tackles this question and examines the motivations behind it to show us why God made us and why our value doesn't lie in what we do in this life.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 19 December 2024

The apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary that came to be known as Our Lady of Guadalupe was a miracle. The Castilian roses that came from Tepeyac Hill in winter were a miracle. The divinely illustrated vision of Our Lady on St. Juan Diego's tilma was a miracle—as is the fact that the tilma composed of organic fibers has refused to degrade for 500 years and is still available to see to this day. But none of those were the greatest miracle that Our Lady brought to the Americas that fateful century. Fr. Mike points out the incredible miracle that many people gloss over—but the one that makes an eternal difference.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 12 December 2024

Grief is natural, and sadness at the death of a loved one is to be expected. But what about people who feel anger in their bereavement? Especially anger at God? Fr. Mike shares a difficult truth for those who wish their loved ones were still with them instead of with Jesus in heaven. Join Fr. Mike in Newark, NJ on December 9, 2024 for an evening of Advent reflection and a question and answer session. Get tickets at https://www.njpac.org/event/father-mike/.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 5 December 2024

In this 3-part series filmed backstage at the 2024 Good News Conference, Fr. Mike sits down with 3 special guests to discuss prayer, the sacraments, and how to prepare to meet Jesus "face to face" this coming Advent. Fr. Mike and Sr. Miriam examine our needs for healing from sin, trauma, and a broken past, and uncover the luminous power of God's loving gaze on our hearts, minds, and souls. Want to go deeper this Advent? Join Fr. Mike Schmitz in a journey through the daily readings as he confronts our doubts and reveals God's love with Ascension-app-exclusive daily video reflections and scripture passages: https://link.ascension-app.com/caouRw13GNb Too often, we live life by "default". We forget that we are on a journey to an eternal destination of joy that we were made for. We are burdened by fears and questions: what if I am not worthy? What if I am not enough? Live Advent differently this year. Prepare to meet God, face to face. Only available on the Ascension App.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 28 November 2024

Did you know that superstitions are a sin? In this video, Fr. Mike dives into the topic of Friday the 13th and other common superstitions, shedding light on how they can reveal something about our hearts. Often rooted in fear, superstitions are a sin against the First Commandment, showing our desire to control or predict the future. Fr. Mike also discusses how Catholics can sometimes fall into superstition through their approach to saints, prayers, and sacramentals—such as treating the scapular like a good luck charm. He emphasizes that our trust should be placed in God and his goodness above all else.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 21 November 2024

Should we wear our best to Mass? Fr. Mike explores the balance between 'coming as you are' and 'putting on your best for the Lord.' He explains that while the state of our hearts ultimately matters most, it's not the only thing that matters. Dressing respectfully for Mass can be a way to honor God, but it should never cover up a lack of sincerity or distract from the true purpose of the Mass. The question to consider is: does my outward appearance reflect the love and reverence in my heart?Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 14 November 2024

Some people brush off intrusive thoughts. But others are haunted by them. If you're having serious issues with intrusive thoughts, first understand that this is normal and part of the human experience. That being said, if you need to combat them, you have options. Today, Fr. Mike gives you some solid advice and steps to take towards greater freedom from unwanted and unwelcome thoughts.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 7 November 2024

Did you know there’s a simple approach to discerning your vocation? Fr. Mike shares the most common mistake he sees people make when determining God's call. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on one vocation at a time, reminding us that jumping between options can lead to confusion. Instead, Fr. Mike encourages us to simplify the process and let God guide us toward the vocation we’re meant for. When we focus and trust, God’s will becomes clear. Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 31 October 2024

Do you pray the rosary? If you do, you might find it difficult at times, or experience dryness in prayer. It's important to persevere in this devotion—but how? Fr. Mike has dealt with the same difficulties in prayer, and these are his top tips for keeping up with the holy rosary.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2024

"In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words." Matthew 6:7 (New American Bible, Revised Edition) Does Jesus warn us against repetitive prayers? Does praying the rosary contradict the way Jesus asked us to pray? Why is the rosary even designed that way? Whether you pray the rosary everyday or have never prayed it before, Fr. Mike has some insights from Jesus and his Church regarding repetition in prayer that will change the way you look at prayers like the rosary.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 17 October 2024

"In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words." Matthew 6:7 (New American Bible, Revised Edition) Does Jesus warn us against repetitive prayers? Does praying the rosary contradict the way Jesus asked us to pray? Why is the rosary even designed that way? Whether you pray the rosary everyday or have never prayed it before, Fr. Mike has some insights from Jesus and his Church regarding repetition in prayer that will change the way you look at prayers like the rosary.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 17 October 2024

Fr. Mike had the pleasure of interviewing David Henrie about his reversion to Catholicism, his life as a Hollywood celebrity, and how to find your identity in Christ no matter your state in life. They also discussed his recent work as director on “Monster Summer”, which follows a group of kids who team up with a retired police detective (played by Mel Gibson) and embark on an adventure to save their island after a mysterious evil force disrupts their summer. Learn more about the film at https://www.monstersummermovie.com/Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 10 October 2024

Jesus gave us the prayer we often call "the Our Father". But where do the other prayers of the Holy Rosary come from, like the Hail Mary? The Glory Be? Who selected the mysteries that we meditate on for each decade? ...who even decided to pray a rosary in "decades"? Fr. Mike breaks down the historical origins of the rosary as well as the logic that the saints who went before us used to organize the rosary as we know it today.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 3 October 2024

Did you know Christians have a radical view of the body? While society often swings between two extremes—either dismissing the body as insignificant or idolizing it—Christianity offers a balanced and profound understanding of the unity between body and soul. Fr. Mike, drawing on St. John Paul II's teachings on the 'cult of the body,' explains that while we are called to care for and love our bodies, they are not our ultimate purpose. He says we can get caught up in focusing on health, beauty, and physical perfection. Our bodies are good, destined for redemption, but they should not be the center of our lives. Understanding this teaching can help us honor our bodies as God intended. Want more content like this? Fr. Mike Schmitz introduces 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: 26 September 2024

You’ve definitely either said—or met someone who’s said—“I go to Mass, but I just don’t get anything out of it.” Fr. Mike gets you. He’s said it too. But what he’s learned and cannot stop telling everyone is that Mass is not about you or getting anything out of it. The heart of religion is worship, and the heart of worship is sacrifice. Mass is not about what you can get, but what you can give to God that is due to him as Lord of the Universe.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 19 September 2024

You’ve definitely either said—or met someone who’s said—“I go to Mass, but I just don’t get anything out of it.” Fr. Mike gets you. He’s said it too. But what he’s learned and cannot stop telling everyone is that Mass is not about you or getting anything out of it. The heart of religion is worship, and the heart of worship is sacrifice. Mass is not about what you can get, but what you can give to God that is due to him as Lord of the Universe.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 19 September 2024

Fr. Mike offers insights on how to combat despair. If you feel like you've tried everything, see no way out, or think nothing matters, Fr. Mike reminds you of the true meaning of hope. He explains that we can always rely on God's presence. Choosing hope means choosing to act with courage, even if that victory is as simple as getting out of bed. Finally, he reminds us that one of the best ways to fight despair is to bring that hopelessness to God in Confession. You are loved, you are valued, and you are absolutely irreplaceable. Our team at Ascension is thinking of you and praying for you. If you're going through a difficult time or struggling with your mental health, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Talk to someone you trust or seek support from a professional. You can also call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 (available 24/7).Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 12 September 2024

How can you discern if the voice you're hearing is genuinely God's? How can you be sure it isn't just your own thoughts or even something deceptive? Fr. Mike offers insight into recognizing God's guidance by asking key questions: Does the voice contradict Scripture or the teachings of the Church? Who does the voice sound like, and what are the characteristics of God's voice? He explains that divine guidance is often confirmed by its fruitfulness—bringing lasting peace, joy, and alignment with God's will. Fr. Mike encourages us to trust God step by step. He says it does not take blind leaps to see how even the most minor acts of faith can produce meaningful fruit over time.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 5 September 2024

Have you ever faced a major loss, whether it's a relationship, your status, or even your health? In this video, we explore the 4 typical responses people have when dealing with significant loss. Fr. Mike introduces the "4 Rs: Restore, Replace, Redesign, Relinquish." He explains that while there is no right or wrong approach, understanding these responses can help you determine which one suits your situation best. Familiarizing yourself with the "4 Rs" will guide you through the process of dealing with loss and finding healing.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 29 August 2024

When we encounter excellence, what prompts us to critique rather than admire? Fr. Mike suggests that this tendency often stems from jealousy and insecurity. He says humans are made to admire all that is praiseworthy. When we witness remarkable talent in athletics, academics, or the arts, we should take the opportunity to commend the hard work and discipline that leads to greatness. God made us to appreciate excellence and work to cultivate it in our own lives.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 22 August 2024

Do you feel the call to engage more deeply in the spiritual battle raging around you? Do you want to deepen your prayer life? This might be precisely what you need. St. Michael’s Lent is a 45-day journey of prayer and reflection inspired by St. Francis of Assisi that runs from August 15 through September 29. Men participating in this transformative practice experience a deepened faith in Jesus and serious growth in virtue. Today, Fr. Mike explains the essence of St. Michael’s Lent, emphasizing how it helps men prepare for future challenges, experience personal growth, and impact their communities. He debunks the myth that these practices are extreme or unreasonable and highlights their role in balancing personal development and service to others. Whether you join St. Michael’s Lent or support those who do through prayer, Fr. Mike encourages everyone to consider how these practices can enrich their lives. Fr. Mike Schmitz invites men to embark on this spiritual journey. Discover more about Exodus 90, which shares similar principles, at https://www.Exodus90.com.Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Transcribed - Published: 15 August 2024