The Creed
Welcome to Part 1, Section 2 of the Catechism in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz! We'll continue examining our "Profession of Faith," or What We Believe, and in this second section, Fr. Mike will discuss what we believe about The Creed. To find the Reading Plan from Ascension, visit https://hallow.com/ciyplan
118 sesiones
1Day 26: Communion of BelieversToday we further realize the sense of the word “credo,” meaning “I believe.” Fr. Mike tells us that these Creeds help us to share the essential elements of Catholicism, encouraging communion between believers. Today’s readings are CCC #185-192.CCC #185-192
2Day 27: The Gift of the CreedThe Catechism we are reading follows the structure of the Apostles’ Creed with frequent references to the Nicene Creed. Together, these Creeds aid us in articulating the beliefs we share within the Catholic Church. Today’s readings are CCC #193-197.CCC #193-197
3Day 28: The Nature of GodIn this episode, we discuss the nature of God beginning with God the Father. Our reading explains how the Creed begins with God the Father because he is the first Divine Person of the most Holy Trinity. God is one. Today’s readings are CCC #198-204.CCC #198-204
4Day 29: Knowing the Name of GodWhen God said to Moses, “I am who I am,” this was a revelation of a name as well as a refusal of a name. This Divine Name expresses the steadfast, faithful, unchanging love of God for his people. Today’s readings are CCC #205-211.CCC #205-211
5Day 30: God Is Who IsToday's Catechism readings begin to unpack the eternal nature of God. Fr. Mike teaches us that because God made us in his image and likeness, then we too are called to embody truth and love. Today’s readings are CCC #212-221.CCC #212-221
6Day 31: The Meaning of FaithThe Catechism wraps up our “I Believe in God” paragraphs with an In Brief and “The Implications of Faith in One God”—or, what God’s being means for us and our lives. Today’s readings are CCC #222-231.CCC #222-231*
7Day 32: The Most Holy TrinityChristians are baptized “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” not the “names” of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Catechism explains this distinction. Today’s readings are CCC #232-237.CCC #232-237
8Day 33: God as FatherJesus. Fr. Mike entreats us to examine our relationships with our earthly fathers and how they might be impacting our vision of God as Father. Today’s readings are CCC #238-242.CCC #238-242
9Day 34: Unity in the Holy SpiritThe Catechism introduces us to the Holy Spirit. It also gives us some background and context regarding the way we describe the Holy Spirit in the Roman Catholic Church compared to the Eastern Orthodox Church. Today’s readings are CCC #243-248.CCC #243-248
10Day 35: Formation of Trinitarian DogmaFr. Mike explores the formation of the Church’s dogma on the nature of the Trinity. Fr. Mike reminds us that the Trinity is a mystery that none of us can fully comprehend. Today’s readings are CCC #249-252.CCC #249-252
11Day 36: The Nature of the TrinityTogether, with Fr. Mike, we continue our exploration of the Church’s teachings on the nature of the Holy Trinity. Fr. Mike discusses the relation between each person of the Holy Trinity. Today’s readings are CCC #253-256.CCC #253-256
12Day 37: The Divine EconomyFr. Mike continues to unpack the Church’s teachings on the Trinity. Fr. Mike concludes this episode with a reflection on the impactful words from Blessed Elizabeth “make our hearts his heaven.” Today’s readings are CCC #257-260.CCC #257-260
13Day 38: Summary of the TrinityWe have arrived at the “nugget day” or In Brief section for the paragraphs examining the nature of the Father in the Trinity. Today’s readings are CCC #261-267.CCC #261-267*
14Day 39: God is the Father AlmightyTogether, with Fr. Mike, we explore the nature of God as Almighty. Fr. Mike discusses three important points to keep in mind about the reality of God’s power. Today’s readings are CCC #268-278.CCC #268-278*
15Day 40: God Is the CreatorFr. Mike explores God’s role as “Creator” and the vital importance of understanding God as the Creator of all things: heaven and earth, seen and unseen. Together, we examine the questions of our origins. Today’s readings are CCC #279-284.CCC #279-284
16Day 41: Origins and EndsTogether with Fr. Mike, we examine some of the different explanations for God’s existence outside of the Catholic understanding, such as Pantheism, Dualism, Manichaeism, and Deism. Fr. Mike explains that while some understanding of man’s origin can be perceived through human reason and the natural world, we also need Revelation, as it answers many questions about creation we could never possibly hope to answer with reason alone. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 285-289.CCC #285-289
17Day 42: The Work of CreationWhy did God create? The Catechism today gives us a glimpse into the reason for our existence as we learn about God’s marvelous work of creation. Today we read CCC #290-298.CCC #290-298
18Day 43: Creation Is GoodHow does God create? We read today about the reality that God creates an ordered and good world. Moreover, he is continually present in his creation, upholding and sustaining it. Today’s readings are CCC #299-308.CCC #299-308
19Day 44: The Scandal of EvilIf God is a good Father and creates a good world, why does evil exist? The Catechism addresses this profound and often painful question. Today’s readings are CCC #309-314.CCC #309-314
20Day 45: Summary of CreationIn this “In Brief” section of the Catechism, we review that only God has the power to create, that is, to call into existence something from nothing. Today’s readings are CCC #315-324.CCC #315-324*
21Day 46: Heaven and EarthGod created heaven and earth — all that we see and all that we don’t see. We learn that the earth is filled with men and many things we can see and that we cannot see, including the presence of God and angels. Today’s readings are CCC #325-330.CCC #325-330
22Day 47: The AngelsThe angels belong to Christ as they were made through him and for him, and he has made them messengers of his saving plan. We learn that angels have been present throughout the history of salvation. Today’s readings are CCC #331-336.CCC #331-336
23Day 48: Creation in OrderGod gave us the world for our use, but not for our abuse. Man, made in the image and likeness of God, is the summit of the Creator’s work, and we are charged with caring for the natural world and all its creatures. Today’s readings are CCC #337-343.CCC #337-343
24Day 49: We Are Created For WorshipThere is a solidarity among all of God’s creatures because all are oriented to give glory to God. We learn that God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh day, sanctifying it and blessing it. Fr. Mike tells us that all creatures were made with a view to the Sabbath, created for the worship and adoration of God. We are all called to the sacred task of worshiping God and nothing else should take precedence over it. We end with an “In Brief” review of all we have learned in recent sessions about the physical world, the spiritual world, angels, and creation. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 344-354.CCC #344-354*
25Day 50: The Dignity of ManThe Catechism teaches us about man’s God-given dignity and unique place in creation. Fr. Mike explains the unity that exists between all persons, and how this necessitates a “law of human solidarity and charity.” Today's readings are CCC #355-361.CCC #355-361
26Day 51: Unity of Soul and BodyThe soul and the body “are not two natures united, but rather their union forms a single nature.” The Catechism introduces us to this profound mystery and begins to unpack our nature as a body and as a soul. Today's readings are CCC #362-368.CCC #362-368
27Day 52: Male and FemaleThe Catechism teaches about God’s plan and design for men and women—male and female—and their equality, complementarity, dignity, and destiny. Today's readings are CCC #369-373.CCC #369-373
28Day 53: Man in ParadiseIn the beginning, humans were in friendship with God and in harmony with creation. The Catechism unfolds this harmony and introduces us to the “original justice” that our first parents lost in sin. Today's readings are CCC #374-384.CCC #374-384*
29Day 54: The Fall of ManThe Catechism introduces us to the Fall, beginning with the reality of sin and the mystery of evil. Today's readings are CCC #385-390.CCC #385-390
30Day 55: The Fall of the AngelsFr. Mike explores the fall of the angels, and how their fall leads to our own “fall into death out of envy.” Together, we examine what caused some of the angels to fall. Today’s readings are CCC #391-395.CCC #391-395
31Day 56: Man’s First SinFr. Mike unpacks the importance of us understanding that freedom is not the power to “do what we want,” but rather, the power to “do what I ought.” Today’s readings are CCC #396-401.CCC #396-401
32Day 57: Consequences of Adam’s SinFr. Mike examines the consequences of the sin of our first parents, Adam and Eve. He discusses that even though they committed a personal sin, it affected all of human nature. Today’s readings are CCC #402-406.CCC #402-406
33Day 58: Man’s Spiritual BattleFr. Mike explores the hard battle which each and every one of us must face, the battle with sin. Together, we examine the mystery of us being both free and under the power of the Devil. Today’s readings are CCC #407-412.CCC #407-412
34Day 59: Summary of The FallWe have arrived at the “nugget day” or the In Brief for the sections on The Father and Original Sin. Fr. Mike reiterates the important idea that every human person is good, but every human person is also broken. Today’s readings are CCC #413-421.CCC #413-421*
35Day 60: God Sends His Only SonFr. Mike emphasizes that God did not have to do anything for us after the Fall, yet he sent us his only Son, and through his Son, we have received grace upon grace. Today’s readings are CCC #422-429.CCC #422-429
36Day 61: The Name of JesusTogether with Fr. Mike, we examine the name above every other name: Jesus Christ. We explore the importance of this name and our reverence for it. Today’s readings are CCC #430-435.CCC #430-435
37Day 62: The ChristWhy is Jesus named “The Christ”? Today we discover the meaning behind this powerful title. We also learn about the three-fold ministry of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. Today’s readings are CCC #436-440.CCC #436-440
38Day 63: The Only Son of GodAs we continue to learn about the name of Jesus and the titles given to him, we encounter in today’s readings the unique title that belongs to Jesus as the only “Son of God.” Today’s readings are CCC #441-445.CCC #441-445
39Day 64: The LordAs we wrap up our discussion of Jesus’ titles, we learn about the last title attributed to Jesus: The Lord. Fr. Mike explains that this title expresses the respect and honor we owe Jesus as God himself. Today’s readings are CCC #446-455.CCC #446-455*
40Day 65: Why the Word Became FleshIn this section of the Catechism, we learn that the Word became flesh to reconcile us with God, to manifest God’s love for us, to model holiness, and to make us partakers of the divine nature. Today’s readings are CCC #456-463.CCC #456-463
41Day 66: True God and True ManIn this reading, we explore the truth that Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man; he is one person with two natures, both Divine and human. Today’s readings are CCC #464-469.CCC #464-469
42Day 67: Jesus Is Fully HumanIn this session, Father 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. Today’s readings are CCC #470-474.CCC #470-474
43Day 68: Humanity of ChristIn this reading, we learn more about Jesus Christ’s nature as fully God and fully human. 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 CCC #475-483.CCC #475-483*
44Day 69: Born of the Virgin MaryIn this episode Father 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. Today’s readings are CCC #484-489.CCC #484-489
45Day 70: The Immaculate ConceptionThe Catechism introduces us to Mary’s Immaculate Conception and explains why God preserved her “immune from all stain of original sin.” Today's readings are CCC #490-494CCC #490-494
46Day 71: Mary’s VirginityThe Catechism tackles a few important issues regarding Mary, the mother of God—her motherhood, her virginal conception of Jesus, and her perpetual virginity. Today's readings are CCC #495-501.CCC #495-501
47Day 72: Mary’s MotherhoodFor those with any lingering doubts or questions, the Catechism offers five reasons for Mary’s perpetual virginity. Today's readings are CCC #502-511.CCC #502-511*
48Day 73: Christ’s Life Is MysteryMany of the things we’d like to know about Jesus’ life we don’t know. The Catechism explains the three characteristics common to each of Christ’s mysteries: revelation, redemption, and recapitulation. Today's readings are CCC #512-521.CCC #512-521
49Day 74: The Christmas MysteryDiving 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. Today's readings are CCC #522-526.CCC #522-526
50Day 75: Jesus’ Infancy and Hidden LifeFr. Mike explores the mystery of Jesus’ infancy and hidden life. We first take a look at Jesus’ Baptism, circumcision, and the Epiphany. Today’s readings are CCC #527-534.CCC #527-534
51Day 76: Jesus’ Baptism and TemptationTogether, with Fr. Mike, we examine the mysteries of Jesus' Baptism and temptation in the wilderness. We also explore Christ’s acceptance of his mission as God’s suffering servant. Today’s readings are CCC #535-540.CCC #535-540
52Day 77: The Kingdom of GodFr. 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. Today’s readings are CCC #541-546.CCC #541-546
53Day 78: Signs of the KingdomFr. 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. Today’s readings are CCC #547-553.CCC #547-553
54Day 79: Jesus’ Transfiguration and Messianic EntranceTogether, with Fr. Mike, we explore both the mystery of Christ’s Transfiguration and the mystery of his messianic entrance into Jerusalem. Today’s readings are CCC #554-560.CCC #554-560
55Day 80: Summary of the Mysteries of Christ’s LifeWe have arrived at another nugget day, or In Brief day, for the paragraphs on the mysteries of Christ’s life. We recount the significance of Christ’s obedience to the Father and our own obedience to God’s will. Today’s readings from the #561-570.CCC #561-570*
56Day 81: Christ’s Paschal MysteryFr. 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. Today’s readings are CCC #571-576.CCC #571-576
57Day 82: Jesus and the LawOur Catechism readings today reveal that Jesus is the Author of the Law who provides the definitive interpretation of the Law. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 577-582. CCC #577-582
58Day 83: Jesus and the Temple 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 CCC #583-586.
CCC #583-586
59Day 84: The Claim of SaviorJesus' claim that he is the one true God and the world's savior was the stumbling block for many Jews. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #587-594. CCC #587-594
60Day 85: Our Sin Killed ChristIn 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. Today’s reading are CCC #595-598.CCC #595-598
61Day 86: God’s Plan of SalvationWe learn that Jesus suffered a violent death in accordance with the definite plan of God. There is no human being for whom Christ did not suffer. Today’s reading is CCC #599-605.CCC #599-605
62Day 87: Christ’s Life as OfferingWe learn that the Eucharist memorializes Jesus’ free offering of himself. The night before his Passion and death, Jesus suffered real agony as he contemplated his death, yet he accepted his death as redemptive. Today’s reading is CCC #606-612.CCC #606-612
63Day 88: Christ’s Definitive SacrificeIn this reading, we learn that Christ’s death is the unique and definitive sacrifice. It is both the Paschal Sacrifice and the sacrifice of the New Covenant. Today’s reading is CCC #613-623.CCC #613-623*
64Day 89: Jesus Christ Was BuriedIn this reading, we learn that when he was crucified, Jesus experienced a real human death. But Jesus’ body did not see corruption, and his body and soul were reunited in the Resurrection. Today’s reading is CCC #624-630.CCC #624-630*
65Day 90: Christ Descended into HellHave 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. Today's readings are CCC #631-637.CCC #631-637*
66Day 91: Christ Rose from the DeadThe Catechism tackles “the crowning truth of our faith in Christ,” “the central truth by the first Christian community,” Jesus’ bodily resurrection from the dead. Today's readings are CCC #638-644.CCC #638-644
67Day 92: The Man of HeavenThe 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.” Today's readings are CCC #645-650.CCC #645-650
68Day 93: The Meaning of the ResurrectionThe 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? Today’s readings are CCC #651-658.CCC #651-658
69Day 94: Christ's Ascension into HeavenThe 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 CCC #659-667.CCC #659-667
70Day 95: Christ's Reign on EarthTogether, 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 from the Catechism are paragraphs CCC #668-674.CCC #668-674
71Day 96: The Church’s Ultimate TrialThe 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 CCC #675-682.CCC #675-682
72Day 97: Introduction to the Holy SpiritTogether, 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 CCC #683-688.CCC #683-688
73Day 98: The Son and the SpiritFr. 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 CCC #689-693.CCC #689-693
74Day 99: Symbols of the Holy SpiritFr. 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 CCC #694-701. CCC #694-701
75Day 100: God’s Word and SpiritTogether 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 CCC #702-710. CCC #702-710
76Day 101: Expecting the MessiahFr. 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 CCC #711-720.CCC #711-720
77Day 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 CCC #721-730.CCC #721-730
78Day 103: The Power of PentecostPentecost 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 CCC #731-736. CCC #731-736
79Day 104: The Holy Spirit and the ChurchAs 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 CCC #737-747.CCC #737-747
80Day 105: Christ’s Church and its MissionThe 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 CCC #748-752.CCC #748-752
81Day 106: Symbols of the ChurchThere 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 CCC #753-757CCC #753-757
82Day 107: Origin of the ChurchThe 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 CCC #758-766.CCC #758-766
83Day 108: Revealed by the Holy SpiritJesus 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 CCC #767-771.CCC #767-771
84Day 109: Mystery of Union With GodDo 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 CCC #772-780.CCC #772-780
85Day 110: The People of GodGod 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 CCC #781-786.CCC #781-786
86Day 111: The Church as the Body of Christ“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 CCC #787-791.CCC #787-791
87Day 112: The Church Is the BrideChrist 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 CCC #792-796.CCC #792-796
88Day 113: The Temple of the Holy Spirit“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 CCC #797-810.CCC #797-810
89Day 114: The Church Is OneIn 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 CCC #811-816.CCC #811-816
90Day 115: Wounds to UnityTogether, 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 CCC #817-822.CCC #817-822
91Day 116: The Church Is HolyFr. 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 CCC #823-829.CCC #823-829
92Day 117: The Church Is CatholicWe continue our examination of the four marks of the Church with today’s mark: catholic. Fr. Mike explains that “catholic” means that the Church is universal in two senses. The first is that Christ is fully present in her, and so receives the fullness of the means of salvation. Second, it goes out to all peoples; everyone belongs. Today’s readings from the Catechism are paragraphs CCC #830-838.CCC #830-838
93Day 118: The Church and Non-ChristiansFr. Mike examines the relationship between the Church and non-Christian religions. He discusses that while there is some degree of goodness and truth in every religion, the fullness of truth exists in the Catholic Church. Fr. Mike concludes with a reflection on the statement from the early Church Fathers that “outside the Church there is no salvation.” Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #839-848.CCC #839-848
94Day 119: The Church’s Missionary MandateTogether, with Fr. Mike, we explore the many aspects of the Church’s missionary mandate. Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of engaging and living out Christ’s great commission. We conclude today with a reflection on the fact that it is the love of Christ that urges us on in our mission of patience in bearing witness to the Gospel. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #849-856.CCC #849-856
95Day 120: The Apostolic ChurchThe fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her "apostolic" nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. CCC #857-862
96Day 121: The Apostolate For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. CCC #863-870
97Day 122: Christ’s Faithful There are three primary roles among Christ’s faithful: the hierarchy, the laity, and consecrated life. Fr. Mike explains the difference between these three roles. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.CCC #871-879
98Day 123: The PopeWho is the Pope? Today, we focus on the role of the Pope in the Catholic Church as the Vicar of Christ and pastor of the entire Church. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 880-887. CCC #880-887
99Day 124: The Three OfficesThere are three offices that belong to the episcopal college: the teaching office, the sanctifying office, and the governing office. Fr. Mike gives us an overview these offices. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 888-896.CCC #888-896
100Day 125: Vocation of the LaityThe term "laity" refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ's priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #897-903.CCC #897-903
101Day 126: Prophetic and Kingly Offices In addition to Christ's priestly office, lay people are called to participate in Christ's prophetic and kingly offices. They take part in Christ's prophetic office by evangelizing and proclaiming Christ by word and with the testimony of their lives. Fr. Mike explains that the laity participate in Christ's kingly office in their hearts. They do this when they rule themselves and conquer sin, acting as virtuous leaders in the Church and society. Fr. Mike also reminds us that lay people should strive to be guided by Christian conscience in all their actions in the Church and human society. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #904-913.CCC #904-913
102Day 127: Consecrated LifeThere are many ways that God calls people to lives of holiness. Just as he calls lay people to holiness, he also calls individuals to consecrated life, including hermits, consecrated virgins, widows, and religious. In a very intentional, specific, and lifelong way, those in consecrated life commit themselves to the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Father Mike helps us see how all the different kinds of consecrated life are a great gift to the Church and the world. Despite the many ways the Lord calls his children to holiness, the goal of each human life remains the same – intimacy with Christ. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #914-924.CCC #914-924
103Day 128: Unique Calls to HolinessThe Lord calls everyone to live a life of surrender, and we have been looking at the various ways God calls people to grow in holiness. Religious life includes the public profession of vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience; members of secular institutes dedicate themselves to living in the world and helping to sanctify it. We also learn that those in societies of apostolic life devote themselves to a particular apostolic purpose without religious vows. These calls to holiness are gifts to the Church and the world. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #925-933. CCC #925-933
104Day 129: Many VocationsThis "In Brief" section reviews all that we have learned in recent episodes. In the Church, “the faithful" refers to clerics and the laity with various callings in each. Fr. Mike explains how God calls every human being to unity with him. No matter our vocations, we must surrender our lives to the Lord and participate in the priesty, prophetic, and kingly offices of Christ. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #934-945.CCC #934-945
105Day 130: The Communion of SaintsThe Catechism begins Paragraph 5 and dives into the communion of saints. This communion is “in holy things (sancta)” and “among holy persons (sancti).” Fr. Mike emphasizes that “the least of our acts done in charity redounds to the profit of all.” At the same time, every sin hurts every single member of the Church. No one is an island—we belong to each other. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #946-953.CCC #946-953
106Day 131: The Communion of the ChurchThe Catechism further unpacks the communion of saints and shows us how the Church lives in communion with those members who have passed on to eternal life with Christ in heaven. If you’re listening to this podcast and you’re not Catholic—or if you still have questions about the communion of saints—Fr. Mike has a word for you. This is your family, interceding on your behalf that you might receive the fullness of Faith here on earth. Today’s readings are from Catechism paragraphs CCC #954-962.CCC #954-962
107Day 132: Mary Mother of the ChurchEarlier in the Catechism, we unpacked Mary as the Mother of Jesus. Now, we look at what it means for Mary to be the Mother of the Church. Fr. Mike makes it clear that, when he entrusts his disciples to Mary, his Mother, from the Cross, he’s entrusting us to her as well. Today’s readings are from Catechism paragraphs CCC #963-970.CCC #963-970
108Day 133: Devotion to MaryWhen we show devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, we fulfill her prophecy that “all generations will call me blessed.” The Catechism clearly shows us how such devotion does not compete with devotion to God, but in fact fosters adoration of God. Fr. Mike declares that the better we know Mary, the better we know Jesus, and the more we love Mary, the more we love Jesus. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #971-975.CCC #971-975
109Day 134: The Forgiveness of SinsThe Catechism provides an overview on how Jesus grants the Church the ability to forgive sins through both Baptism and the sacrament of Reconciliation. Fr. Mike doubles down on the revelation that there is no sin that Jesus can’t forgive—and no one is disqualified. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #976-987.CCC #976-987
110Day 135: Resurrection of the BodyFr. Mike explores the essential element of Christian Faith that we “look forward to the resurrection of the dead.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 988-996.CCC #988-996
111Day 136: Questions of ResurrectionTogether, with Fr. Mike, we unpack some of the questions surrounding the resurrection of the dead. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 997-1004.CCC #997-1004
112Day 137: Dying in Christ JesusFr. Mike examines the mystery of death and dying in Christ.Today’s readings from the Catechism are paragraphs CCC #1005-1011.CCC #1005-1011
113Day 138: Summary: Resurrection Together, with Fr. Mike, we arrive at the “nugget day” or summary for the Catechism paragraphs on the Resurrection and the Christian vision of death. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #1012-1019.CCC #1012-1019*
114Day 139: I Believe in Life EverlastingTogether, with Fr. Mike, we explore what happens to us at and after the moment of our death. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #1020-1029.CCC #1020-1029
115Day 140: Purgatory and HellThe Catechism teaches us today about the existence and the meaning of purgatory and hell. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #1030-1037.CCC #1030-1037
116Day 141: The Last Judgment We delve into the cosmic event that will take place at the end of time known as the Last Judgment. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs CCC #1038-1041.CCC #1038-1041
117Day 142: The New Heaven and the New EarthWhat will happen to humanity and the entire universe at the end of time? Today’s Catechism readings are paragraphs 1042-1050.CCC #1042-1050
118Day 143: AmenCongratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen”. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.CCC #1051-1065*