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    <fireside:genDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 20:03:21 -0500</fireside:genDate>
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    <title>The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) - Episodes Tagged with “Grace”</title>
    <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/tags/grace</link>
    <pubDate>Sun, 14 Dec 2025 03:15:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <description>In Ascension’s The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides you through the entire Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 episodes, providing explanation, insight, and encouragement along the way.
Unlike any other Catechism podcast, The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) podcast follows a reading plan inspired by Ascension’s Foundations of Faith approach,  a color-coded approach that reveals the structure of the Catechism, making it easier to read and understand. With this podcast, you’ll finally understand what it means to be Catholic and how the beliefs of the Catholic Faith come together. 
Listen and…
Read the ENTIRE Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 days
Understand the essentials of the Catholic Faith and why they matter
Understand how Church teaching is rooted in Sacred Scripture
Absorb over 2,000 years of Sacred Tradition
Encounter God’s plan of sheer goodness for your life
Each 15-20 minute episode includes:
A guided prayer to help you enter into each episode
A reading from the Catechism of the Catholic Church 
An explanation from Fr. Mike Schmitz about the reading
The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
</description>
    <language>en-us</language>
    <itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type>
    <itunes:subtitle>A day-by-day walk through the transformative beliefs and teachings of the Catholic Church. </itunes:subtitle>
    <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
    <itunes:summary>In Ascension’s The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides you through the entire Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 episodes, providing explanation, insight, and encouragement along the way.
Unlike any other Catechism podcast, The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) podcast follows a reading plan inspired by Ascension’s Foundations of Faith approach,  a color-coded approach that reveals the structure of the Catechism, making it easier to read and understand. With this podcast, you’ll finally understand what it means to be Catholic and how the beliefs of the Catholic Faith come together. 
Listen and…
Read the ENTIRE Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 days
Understand the essentials of the Catholic Faith and why they matter
Understand how Church teaching is rooted in Sacred Scripture
Absorb over 2,000 years of Sacred Tradition
Encounter God’s plan of sheer goodness for your life
Each 15-20 minute episode includes:
A guided prayer to help you enter into each episode
A reading from the Catechism of the Catholic Church 
An explanation from Fr. Mike Schmitz about the reading
The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
</itunes:summary>
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    <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
    <itunes:keywords>catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:owner>
      <itunes:name>Ascension</itunes:name>
      <itunes:email>podcasts@ascensionpress.com</itunes:email>
    </itunes:owner>
<itunes:category text="Religion &amp; Spirituality">
  <itunes:category text="Christianity"/>
</itunes:category>
<itunes:category text="Religion &amp; Spirituality">
  <itunes:category text="Spirituality"/>
</itunes:category>
<item>
  <title>Day 348: The Battle of Prayer (2025)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-348-2025</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">d82d8efb-4539-40b5-9737-cc87344918e8</guid>
  <pubDate>Sun, 14 Dec 2025 03:15:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/d82d8efb-4539-40b5-9737-cc87344918e8.mp3" length="25334138" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Prayer is "grace and grit," as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike's favorites in the Catechism, we hear that "we pray as we live because we live as we pray." This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit's grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>25:41</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Prayer is "grace and grit," as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike's favorites in the Catechism, we hear that "we pray as we live because we live as we pray." This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit's grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. 
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Prayer is &quot;grace and grit,&quot; as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike&#39;s favorites in the Catechism, we hear that &quot;we pray as we live because we live as we pray.&quot; This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit&#39;s grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Prayer is &quot;grace and grit,&quot; as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike&#39;s favorites in the Catechism, we hear that &quot;we pray as we live because we live as we pray.&quot; This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit&#39;s grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 145: Introduction to the Liturgy (2025)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-145-2025</link>
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  <pubDate>Sun, 25 May 2025 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/0dfe7994-74ba-4241-b600-dea6faca9818.mp3" length="17412490" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:41</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Liturgy, Sacraments, Community, Worship, Grace, jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 143: Amen (2025)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-143-2025</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">5805ea52-ad1b-4287-9350-c2bfe817d22e</guid>
  <pubDate>Fri, 23 May 2025 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/5805ea52-ad1b-4287-9350-c2bfe817d22e.mp3" length="15496169" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:08</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>judgment, amen, death, belief, grace, jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 122: Christ’s Faithful (2025)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-122-2025</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">6a31097b-d46e-4d5b-8600-08ef8aad227e</guid>
  <pubDate>Fri, 02 May 2025 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/6a31097b-d46e-4d5b-8600-08ef8aad227e.mp3" length="19686185" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>20:30</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>hierarchy, laity, consecrated life, mission, bishops, priest, college of bishops, ecclesial ministry, sacraments, grace, jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 109: Mystery of Union With God (2025)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-109-2025</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">20988ccb-48e2-44dc-9f00-b34cc4fc705a</guid>
  <pubDate>Sat, 19 Apr 2025 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/20988ccb-48e2-44dc-9f00-b34cc4fc705a.mp3" length="17793064" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:09</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>mystery, union, holiness, mary, bridegroom, bride, unity, sacrament, grace, jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 14: The Eternal Word of God (2025)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-14-2025</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">2182529d-0ac8-49cd-ab2e-0ec777dbec09</guid>
  <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jan 2025 03:15:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/2182529d-0ac8-49cd-ab2e-0ec777dbec09.mp3" length="16463192" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:08</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Catechism, catechism in a year, tradition, scripture, father mike schmitz, fr mike schmitz, ascension, word of god, bible, sacredness of scripture, revelation, grace, free will, truth, scriptures, religion, living word of god, eternal word of god,jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 7: God Reveals Himself (2025)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-7-2025</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">cf2e5acb-8ccf-4302-b4d5-a4040d6f198a</guid>
  <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jan 2025 03:15:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cf2e5acb-8ccf-4302-b4d5-a4040d6f198a.mp3" length="16293817" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:30</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Revelation, knowing god, understanding god, grace, loving god, creation, god’s plan for man, redemption, truth, love of god, fullness of truth, unity, creation of man, promise of salvation, seeking truth, meaning of life,jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 348: The Battle of Prayer (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day348-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">fe86dcbb-195d-4205-a826-1294cc821e3d</guid>
  <pubDate>Fri, 13 Dec 2024 03:15:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/fe86dcbb-195d-4205-a826-1294cc821e3d.mp3" length="25334138" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Prayer is "grace and grit," as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike's favorites in the Catechism, we hear that "we pray as we live because we live as we pray." This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit's grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>25:41</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Prayer is "grace and grit," as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike's favorites in the Catechism, we hear that "we pray as we live because we live as we pray." This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit's grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. 
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Battle, Prayer, Failure, Grit, Grace, Humility, Love jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Prayer is &quot;grace and grit,&quot; as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike&#39;s favorites in the Catechism, we hear that &quot;we pray as we live because we live as we pray.&quot; This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit&#39;s grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Prayer is &quot;grace and grit,&quot; as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike&#39;s favorites in the Catechism, we hear that &quot;we pray as we live because we live as we pray.&quot; This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit&#39;s grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 266: The Gift of Grace (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day266-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">a590d4dc-b2f4-47bd-9c97-74fa531d383d</guid>
  <pubDate>Sun, 22 Sep 2024 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/a590d4dc-b2f4-47bd-9c97-74fa531d383d.mp3" length="17031378" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>In this summary of the Catechism’s teaching on holiness, justification, and merit, we briefly consider the work of God’s grace and mercy. His grace moves us from sin and toward him, making us his sons and daughters and bringing us into the very life of the Trinity. This gift of grace invites us to respond to his promptings and invitations freely. Finally, God offers “all the graces needed to attain eternal life.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2017-2029. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:10</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>In this summary of the Catechism’s teaching on holiness, justification, and merit, we briefly consider the work of God’s grace and mercy. His grace moves us from sin and toward him, making us his sons and daughters and bringing us into the very life of the Trinity. This gift of grace invites us to respond to his promptings and invitations freely. Finally, God offers “all the graces needed to attain eternal life.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2017-2029. 
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Freedom, Grace, Salvation, Heaven, Conversion, Love, Perfection jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>In this summary of the Catechism’s teaching on holiness, justification, and merit, we briefly consider the work of God’s grace and mercy. His grace moves us from sin and toward him, making us his sons and daughters and bringing us into the very life of the Trinity. This gift of grace invites us to respond to his promptings and invitations freely. Finally, God offers “all the graces needed to attain eternal life.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2017-2029. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>In this summary of the Catechism’s teaching on holiness, justification, and merit, we briefly consider the work of God’s grace and mercy. His grace moves us from sin and toward him, making us his sons and daughters and bringing us into the very life of the Trinity. This gift of grace invites us to respond to his promptings and invitations freely. Finally, God offers “all the graces needed to attain eternal life.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2017-2029. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 264: Man’s Merit (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day264-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">8ddf12a0-36f9-4141-8ab7-9ffe88a5ad5b</guid>
  <pubDate>Fri, 20 Sep 2024 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/8ddf12a0-36f9-4141-8ab7-9ffe88a5ad5b.mp3" length="14592530" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Knowing that our good actions begin and end in Christ, we recognize that man’s merit is due to God. Fr. Mike explains that charity in Christ is the source of all our merits. In this way, merit is pure grace, and we should look to the saints for examples of how to live this truth out. St. Thérèse of Lisieux puts it best when she prays to God: “In the evening of this life, I shall appear before you with empty hands.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2006-2011.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>15:12</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Knowing that our good actions begin and end in Christ, we recognize that man’s merit is due to God. Fr. Mike explains that charity in Christ is the source of all our merits. In this way, merit is pure grace, and we should look to the saints for examples of how to live this truth out. St. Thérèse of Lisieux puts it best when she prays to God: “In the evening of this life, I shall appear before you with empty hands.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2006-2011.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>merit, grace, christ, saint therese, good deeds, charity, saints jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Knowing that our good actions begin and end in Christ, we recognize that man’s merit is due to God. Fr. Mike explains that charity in Christ is the source of all our merits. In this way, merit is pure grace, and we should look to the saints for examples of how to live this truth out. St. Thérèse of Lisieux puts it best when she prays to God: “In the evening of this life, I shall appear before you with empty hands.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2006-2011.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Knowing that our good actions begin and end in Christ, we recognize that man’s merit is due to God. Fr. Mike explains that charity in Christ is the source of all our merits. In this way, merit is pure grace, and we should look to the saints for examples of how to live this truth out. St. Thérèse of Lisieux puts it best when she prays to God: “In the evening of this life, I shall appear before you with empty hands.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2006-2011.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 263: Responding to Grace (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day263-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">de8341e9-e29e-47b0-84d9-d26429b1f358</guid>
  <pubDate>Thu, 19 Sep 2024 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/de8341e9-e29e-47b0-84d9-d26429b1f358.mp3" length="16866848" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>God’s free initiative demands man’s free response. We continue our discussion of grace today by examining how grace and our free will interact in our lives. Fr. Mike also explains the purpose of sacramental graces and how the expression of these graces looks different across the Body of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2002-2005. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:34</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>God’s free initiative demands man’s free response. We continue our discussion of grace today by examining how grace and our free will interact in our lives. Fr. Mike also explains the purpose of sacramental graces and how the expression of these graces looks different across the Body of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2002-2005. 
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>grace, supernatural grace, free will, responding to gods will, justification, salvation, sacramental graces,  jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>God’s free initiative demands man’s free response. We continue our discussion of grace today by examining how grace and our free will interact in our lives. Fr. Mike also explains the purpose of sacramental graces and how the expression of these graces looks different across the Body of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2002-2005. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>God’s free initiative demands man’s free response. We continue our discussion of grace today by examining how grace and our free will interact in our lives. Fr. Mike also explains the purpose of sacramental graces and how the expression of these graces looks different across the Body of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2002-2005. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 262: Habitual and Actual Grace (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day262-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">015e97f4-d439-481e-b989-89755a7fb8fd</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 18 Sep 2024 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/015e97f4-d439-481e-b989-89755a7fb8fd.mp3" length="18850517" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Without God’s help, we can do nothing. The Catechism delves into grace today, explaining how grace works and helps us achieve our supernatural vocation to eternal life. Fr. Mike unpacks the difference between habitual and actual grace and reminds us that God is always the initiator of all our spiritual efforts. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1996-2001. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>19:38</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Without God’s help, we can do nothing. The Catechism delves into grace today, explaining how grace works and helps us achieve our supernatural vocation to eternal life. Fr. Mike unpacks the difference between habitual and actual grace and reminds us that God is always the initiator of all our spiritual efforts. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1996-2001. 
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>grace, actual grace, habitual grace, participation in god's life, sanctification, deifying grace, supernatural, jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Without God’s help, we can do nothing. The Catechism delves into grace today, explaining how grace works and helps us achieve our supernatural vocation to eternal life. Fr. Mike unpacks the difference between habitual and actual grace and reminds us that God is always the initiator of all our spiritual efforts. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1996-2001. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Without God’s help, we can do nothing. The Catechism delves into grace today, explaining how grace works and helps us achieve our supernatural vocation to eternal life. Fr. Mike unpacks the difference between habitual and actual grace and reminds us that God is always the initiator of all our spiritual efforts. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1996-2001. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 261: Justification (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day261-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">9be2e018-fd5b-4ec4-b2f5-03521e1b0d76</guid>
  <pubDate>Tue, 17 Sep 2024 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/9be2e018-fd5b-4ec4-b2f5-03521e1b0d76.mp3" length="18252956" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>What does it mean to be justified? The Catechism teaches us today about the grace of the Holy Spirit and its power to justify us. Fr. Mike explains how justification detaches us from sin and purifies our hearts. We learn that justification brings about a marvelous inward transformation that bears witness to God's great mercy. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1987-1995.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>19:00</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>What does it mean to be justified? The Catechism teaches us today about the grace of the Holy Spirit and its power to justify us. Fr. Mike explains how justification detaches us from sin and purifies our hearts. We learn that justification brings about a marvelous inward transformation that bears witness to God's great mercy. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1987-1995.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>justification, justified, grace, sin, righteousness, righteous, salvation, sanctification, sanctify, holy spirit,  jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>What does it mean to be justified? The Catechism teaches us today about the grace of the Holy Spirit and its power to justify us. Fr. Mike explains how justification detaches us from sin and purifies our hearts. We learn that justification brings about a marvelous inward transformation that bears witness to God&#39;s great mercy. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1987-1995.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>What does it mean to be justified? The Catechism teaches us today about the grace of the Holy Spirit and its power to justify us. Fr. Mike explains how justification detaches us from sin and purifies our hearts. We learn that justification brings about a marvelous inward transformation that bears witness to God&#39;s great mercy. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1987-1995.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 235: Human Freedom in Salvation (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day235-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">c9e2f715-cc30-4151-92c0-d23cff35ac6e</guid>
  <pubDate>Thu, 22 Aug 2024 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/c9e2f715-cc30-4151-92c0-d23cff35ac6e.mp3" length="16678867" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the reality of our human freedom in the economy of salvation. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the right to freedom does not imply a right to say or do anything. Rather, it is the power to choose the “right.” He also emphasizes that the moral law actually allows us to live with freedom and joy, and that when we violate the moral law, we violate our own freedom. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1739-1748.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:57</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the reality of our human freedom in the economy of salvation. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the right to freedom does not imply a right to say or do anything. Rather, it is the power to choose the “right.” He also emphasizes that the moral law actually allows us to live with freedom and joy, and that when we violate the moral law, we violate our own freedom. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1739-1748.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Morality, Human Acts, Morality of Human Acts, Freedom, Sin, Liberation, Salvation, Grace, Moral Law jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the reality of our human freedom in the economy of salvation. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the right to freedom does not imply a right to say or do anything. Rather, it is the power to choose the “right.” He also emphasizes that the moral law actually allows us to live with freedom and joy, and that when we violate the moral law, we violate our own freedom. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1739-1748.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the reality of our human freedom in the economy of salvation. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the right to freedom does not imply a right to say or do anything. Rather, it is the power to choose the “right.” He also emphasizes that the moral law actually allows us to live with freedom and joy, and that when we violate the moral law, we violate our own freedom. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1739-1748.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 194: Summary of the Sacrament of the Eucharist (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day194-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">af902084-5cb9-40ba-a604-98e7665ca1e5</guid>
  <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jul 2024 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/af902084-5cb9-40ba-a604-98e7665ca1e5.mp3" length="15384700" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>The Catechism has spent considerable time unpacking Holy Communion—the “sacrament of sacraments”—with us, and now she summarizes the most essential truths that we must internalize and move forward with. Fr. Mike takes this “nugget day” to tell us that God desires to feed us. He has given us his Son so that we might be filled with him and made whole again, in unity with him for all of eternity. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1406-1419.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>15:35</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>The Catechism has spent considerable time unpacking Holy Communion—the “sacrament of sacraments”—with us, and now she summarizes the most essential truths that we must internalize and move forward with. Fr. Mike takes this “nugget day” to tell us that God desires to feed us. He has given us his Son so that we might be filled with him and made whole again, in unity with him for all of eternity. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1406-1419.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Eucharist,holy communion,eucharistic,sacrament of sacraments,nugget day, in brief,in-brief,john 6,living bread,body of christ,blood of christ,thanksgiving,grace,consecration,new covenant,species of bread and wine,sacrifice,reparation,state of grace,communicant,mystical body,adoration,transubstantial,transubstantiation jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>The Catechism has spent considerable time unpacking Holy Communion—the “sacrament of sacraments”—with us, and now she summarizes the most essential truths that we must internalize and move forward with. Fr. Mike takes this “nugget day” to tell us that God desires to feed us. He has given us his Son so that we might be filled with him and made whole again, in unity with him for all of eternity. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1406-1419.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>The Catechism has spent considerable time unpacking Holy Communion—the “sacrament of sacraments”—with us, and now she summarizes the most essential truths that we must internalize and move forward with. Fr. Mike takes this “nugget day” to tell us that God desires to feed us. He has given us his Son so that we might be filled with him and made whole again, in unity with him for all of eternity. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1406-1419.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 145: Introduction to the Liturgy (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day145-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">9b3bd4a8-c892-4559-9ae3-d3333f555257</guid>
  <pubDate>Fri, 24 May 2024 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/9b3bd4a8-c892-4559-9ae3-d3333f555257.mp3" length="17412490" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:41</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Liturgy, Sacraments, Community, Worship, Grace jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 143: Amen (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day143-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">941778b6-d380-4075-97be-ec624d38870d</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 22 May 2024 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/941778b6-d380-4075-97be-ec624d38870d.mp3" length="15496169" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:08</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>judgment, amen, death, belief, grace,  jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 122: Christ’s Faithful (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day122-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">57625be2-0851-407b-b5d3-a4ad68a3d356</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 01 May 2024 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/57625be2-0851-407b-b5d3-a4ad68a3d356.mp3" length="19686185" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>20:30</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>hierarchy, laity, consecrated life, mission, bishops, priest, college of bishops, ecclesial ministry, sacraments, grace,  jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 109: Mystery of Union With God (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day109-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">4b8c81d1-abdc-452f-83d3-b6207eb6c8f4</guid>
  <pubDate>Thu, 18 Apr 2024 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/4b8c81d1-abdc-452f-83d3-b6207eb6c8f4.mp3" length="17793064" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:09</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>mystery, union, holiness, mary, bridegroom, bride, unity, sacrament, grace jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 14: The Eternal Word of God (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day14-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">8f08df93-4c24-43d6-9e31-791efe0c9733</guid>
  <pubDate>Sun, 14 Jan 2024 03:15:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/8f08df93-4c24-43d6-9e31-791efe0c9733.mp3" length="16463192" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:08</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Catechism, catechism in a year, tradition, scripture, father mike schmitz, fr mike schmitz, ascension, word of god, bible, sacredness of scripture, revelation, grace, free will, truth, scriptures, religion, living word of god, eternal word of godjesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 7: God Reveals Himself (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day7-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">93c8a211-2fb1-40aa-805d-79862e113dc7</guid>
  <pubDate>Sun, 07 Jan 2024 03:15:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/93c8a211-2fb1-40aa-805d-79862e113dc7.mp3" length="16293817" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:30</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Revelation, knowing god, understanding god, grace, loving god, creation, god’s plan for man, redemption, truth, love of god, fullness of truth, unity, creation of man, promise of salvation, seeking truth, meaning of life,jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 348: The Battle of Prayer</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-348-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">4bb6f257-d0bf-4a3b-a5ac-79f097faf385</guid>
  <pubDate>Thu, 14 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/4bb6f257-d0bf-4a3b-a5ac-79f097faf385.mp3" length="25334138" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Prayer is "grace and grit," as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike's favorites in the Catechism, we hear that "we pray as we live because we live as we pray." This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit's grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>25:41</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Prayer is "grace and grit," as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike's favorites in the Catechism, we hear that "we pray as we live because we live as we pray." This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit's grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. 
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Prayer is &quot;grace and grit,&quot; as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike&#39;s favorites in the Catechism, we hear that &quot;we pray as we live because we live as we pray.&quot; This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit&#39;s grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Prayer is &quot;grace and grit,&quot; as Fr. Mike phrases it. In this section, one of Fr. Mike&#39;s favorites in the Catechism, we hear that &quot;we pray as we live because we live as we pray.&quot; This living and praying is a battle in which we must confront our failures and accept the Holy Spirit&#39;s grace and aid. Prayer requires humility, trust, and perseverance on our part. In this struggle, we must battle against distraction, ourselves, dryness, and temptation. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2725-2731. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 266: The Gift of Grace</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-266-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">a94d3ecb-407f-4b6b-b775-fccac1cfd40a</guid>
  <pubDate>Sat, 23 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/a94d3ecb-407f-4b6b-b775-fccac1cfd40a.mp3" length="17031378" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>In this summary of the Catechism’s teaching on holiness, justification, and merit, we briefly consider the work of God’s grace and mercy. His grace moves us from sin and toward him, making us his sons and daughters and bringing us into the very life of the Trinity. This gift of grace invites us to respond to his promptings and invitations freely. Finally, God offers “all the graces needed to attain eternal life.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2017-2029.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:10</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>In this summary of the Catechism’s teaching on holiness, justification, and merit, we briefly consider the work of God’s grace and mercy. His grace moves us from sin and toward him, making us his sons and daughters and bringing us into the very life of the Trinity. This gift of grace invites us to respond to his promptings and invitations freely. Finally, God offers “all the graces needed to attain eternal life.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2017-2029.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>In this summary of the Catechism’s teaching on holiness, justification, and merit, we briefly consider the work of God’s grace and mercy. His grace moves us from sin and toward him, making us his sons and daughters and bringing us into the very life of the Trinity. This gift of grace invites us to respond to his promptings and invitations freely. Finally, God offers “all the graces needed to attain eternal life.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2017-2029.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>In this summary of the Catechism’s teaching on holiness, justification, and merit, we briefly consider the work of God’s grace and mercy. His grace moves us from sin and toward him, making us his sons and daughters and bringing us into the very life of the Trinity. This gift of grace invites us to respond to his promptings and invitations freely. Finally, God offers “all the graces needed to attain eternal life.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2017-2029.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 264: Man’s Merit</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day264-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">3019f032-ec45-410f-b9f8-1ac40a514dba</guid>
  <pubDate>Thu, 21 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/3019f032-ec45-410f-b9f8-1ac40a514dba.mp3" length="14592530" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Knowing that our good actions begin and end in Christ, we recognize that man’s merit is due to God. Fr. Mike explains that charity in Christ is the source of all our merits. In this way, merit is pure grace, and we should look to the saints for examples of how to live this truth out. St. Thérèse of Lisieux puts it best when she prays to God: “In the evening of this life, I shall appear before you with empty hands.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2006-2011.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>15:12</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Knowing that our good actions begin and end in Christ, we recognize that man’s merit is due to God. Fr. Mike explains that charity in Christ is the source of all our merits. In this way, merit is pure grace, and we should look to the saints for examples of how to live this truth out. St. Thérèse of Lisieux puts it best when she prays to God: “In the evening of this life, I shall appear before you with empty hands.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2006-2011.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>merit, grace, christ, saint therese, good deeds, charity, saints,jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Knowing that our good actions begin and end in Christ, we recognize that man’s merit is due to God. Fr. Mike explains that charity in Christ is the source of all our merits. In this way, merit is pure grace, and we should look to the saints for examples of how to live this truth out. St. Thérèse of Lisieux puts it best when she prays to God: “In the evening of this life, I shall appear before you with empty hands.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2006-2011.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Knowing that our good actions begin and end in Christ, we recognize that man’s merit is due to God. Fr. Mike explains that charity in Christ is the source of all our merits. In this way, merit is pure grace, and we should look to the saints for examples of how to live this truth out. St. Thérèse of Lisieux puts it best when she prays to God: “In the evening of this life, I shall appear before you with empty hands.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2006-2011.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 263: Responding to Grace</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day263-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">97c3c8f9-c989-47c1-99a9-130917691eb7</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/97c3c8f9-c989-47c1-99a9-130917691eb7.mp3" length="16866848" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>God’s free initiative demands man’s free response. We continue our discussion of grace today by examining how grace and our free will interact in our lives. Fr. Mike also explains the purpose of sacramental graces and how the expression of these graces looks different across the Body of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2002-2005. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:34</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>God’s free initiative demands man’s free response. We continue our discussion of grace today by examining how grace and our free will interact in our lives. Fr. Mike also explains the purpose of sacramental graces and how the expression of these graces looks different across the Body of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2002-2005. 
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>grace, supernatural grace, free will, responding to gods will, justification, salvation, sacramental graces, jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>God’s free initiative demands man’s free response. We continue our discussion of grace today by examining how grace and our free will interact in our lives. Fr. Mike also explains the purpose of sacramental graces and how the expression of these graces looks different across the Body of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2002-2005. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>God’s free initiative demands man’s free response. We continue our discussion of grace today by examining how grace and our free will interact in our lives. Fr. Mike also explains the purpose of sacramental graces and how the expression of these graces looks different across the Body of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2002-2005. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 262: Habitual and Actual Grace</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day262-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">90af0677-2e40-4758-873a-256c981397d7</guid>
  <pubDate>Tue, 19 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/90af0677-2e40-4758-873a-256c981397d7.mp3" length="18850517" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Without God’s help, we can do nothing. The Catechism delves into grace today, explaining how grace works and helps us achieve our supernatural vocation to eternal life. Fr. Mike unpacks the difference between habitual and actual grace and reminds us that God is always the initiator of all our spiritual efforts. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1996-2001. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>19:38</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Without God’s help, we can do nothing. The Catechism delves into grace today, explaining how grace works and helps us achieve our supernatural vocation to eternal life. Fr. Mike unpacks the difference between habitual and actual grace and reminds us that God is always the initiator of all our spiritual efforts. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1996-2001. 
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>grace, actual grace, habitual grace, participation in god's life, sanctification, deifying grace, supernatural,jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Without God’s help, we can do nothing. The Catechism delves into grace today, explaining how grace works and helps us achieve our supernatural vocation to eternal life. Fr. Mike unpacks the difference between habitual and actual grace and reminds us that God is always the initiator of all our spiritual efforts. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1996-2001. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Without God’s help, we can do nothing. The Catechism delves into grace today, explaining how grace works and helps us achieve our supernatural vocation to eternal life. Fr. Mike unpacks the difference between habitual and actual grace and reminds us that God is always the initiator of all our spiritual efforts. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1996-2001. </p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 261: Justification</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day261-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">9b07cbc9-d91a-4843-830e-822571f8b747</guid>
  <pubDate>Mon, 18 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/9b07cbc9-d91a-4843-830e-822571f8b747.mp3" length="18252956" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>What does it mean to be justified? The Catechism teaches us today about the grace of the Holy Spirit and its power to justify us. Fr. Mike explains how justification detaches us from sin and purifies our hearts. We learn that justification brings about a marvelous inward transformation that bears witness to God's great mercy. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1987-1995.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>19:00</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>What does it mean to be justified? The Catechism teaches us today about the grace of the Holy Spirit and its power to justify us. Fr. Mike explains how justification detaches us from sin and purifies our hearts. We learn that justification brings about a marvelous inward transformation that bears witness to God's great mercy. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1987-1995.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>justification, justified, grace, sin, righteousness, righteous, salvation, sanctification, sanctify, holy spirit, jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>What does it mean to be justified? The Catechism teaches us today about the grace of the Holy Spirit and its power to justify us. Fr. Mike explains how justification detaches us from sin and purifies our hearts. We learn that justification brings about a marvelous inward transformation that bears witness to God&#39;s great mercy. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1987-1995.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>What does it mean to be justified? The Catechism teaches us today about the grace of the Holy Spirit and its power to justify us. Fr. Mike explains how justification detaches us from sin and purifies our hearts. We learn that justification brings about a marvelous inward transformation that bears witness to God&#39;s great mercy. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1987-1995.</p>

<p><em>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</em></p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 235: Human Freedom in Salvation</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-235-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">f310a7fc-537d-4b4a-97ca-9b4ad6f4be6a</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 23 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/f310a7fc-537d-4b4a-97ca-9b4ad6f4be6a.mp3" length="16678867" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the reality of our human freedom in the economy of salvation. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the right to freedom does not imply a right to say or do anything. Rather, it is the power to choose the “right.” He also emphasizes that the moral law actually allows us to live with freedom and joy, and that when we violate the moral law, we violate our own freedom. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1739-1748.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:57</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the reality of our human freedom in the economy of salvation. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the right to freedom does not imply a right to say or do anything. Rather, it is the power to choose the “right.” He also emphasizes that the moral law actually allows us to live with freedom and joy, and that when we violate the moral law, we violate our own freedom. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1739-1748.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the reality of our human freedom in the economy of salvation. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the right to freedom does not imply a right to say or do anything. Rather, it is the power to choose the “right.” He also emphasizes that the moral law actually allows us to live with freedom and joy, and that when we violate the moral law, we violate our own freedom. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1739-1748.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the reality of our human freedom in the economy of salvation. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the right to freedom does not imply a right to say or do anything. Rather, it is the power to choose the “right.” He also emphasizes that the moral law actually allows us to live with freedom and joy, and that when we violate the moral law, we violate our own freedom. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1739-1748.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 194: Summary of the Sacrament of the Eucharist</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day194-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">03502ee5-0708-4b88-9eb1-4b697176ced2</guid>
  <pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/03502ee5-0708-4b88-9eb1-4b697176ced2.mp3" length="15384700" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>The Catechism has spent considerable time unpacking Holy Communion—the “sacrament of sacraments”—with us, and now she summarizes the most essential truths that we must internalize and move forward with. Fr. Mike takes this “nugget day” to tell us that God desires to feed us. He has given us his Son so that we might be filled with him and made whole again, in unity with him for all of eternity. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1406-1419.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>15:35</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>The Catechism has spent considerable time unpacking Holy Communion—the “sacrament of sacraments”—with us, and now she summarizes the most essential truths that we must internalize and move forward with. Fr. Mike takes this “nugget day” to tell us that God desires to feed us. He has given us his Son so that we might be filled with him and made whole again, in unity with him for all of eternity. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1406-1419.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Eucharist,holy communion,eucharistic,sacrament of sacraments,nugget day, in brief,in-brief,john 6,living bread,body of christ,blood of christ,thanksgiving,grace,consecration,new covenant,species of bread and wine,sacrifice,reparation,state of grace,communicant,mystical body,adoration,transubstantial,transubstantiation,jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>The Catechism has spent considerable time unpacking Holy Communion—the “sacrament of sacraments”—with us, and now she summarizes the most essential truths that we must internalize and move forward with. Fr. Mike takes this “nugget day” to tell us that God desires to feed us. He has given us his Son so that we might be filled with him and made whole again, in unity with him for all of eternity. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1406-1419.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>The Catechism has spent considerable time unpacking Holy Communion—the “sacrament of sacraments”—with us, and now she summarizes the most essential truths that we must internalize and move forward with. Fr. Mike takes this “nugget day” to tell us that God desires to feed us. He has given us his Son so that we might be filled with him and made whole again, in unity with him for all of eternity. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1406-1419.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 145: Introduction to the Liturgy</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-145-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">9b937684-d9c5-436c-adf6-092dfe0abb37</guid>
  <pubDate>Thu, 25 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/9b937684-d9c5-436c-adf6-092dfe0abb37.mp3" length="17412490" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:41</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Together, with Fr. Mike, we begin the section of the Catechism examining the liturgy. We start with an exploration of the questions of “why” the liturgy and “what” the liturgy is. Fr. Mike explains that it is through the liturgy that we are able to encounter the grace that Jesus Christ has won for us. He emphasizes that it is the liturgy that gives us access to God, himself. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1066-1075.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 143: Amen</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-143-23</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">fe04cd72-3a0a-4853-9355-4b98b435669f</guid>
  <pubDate>Tue, 23 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/fe04cd72-3a0a-4853-9355-4b98b435669f.mp3" length="15496169" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:08</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>judgment, amen, death, belief, grace, jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Congratulations, we have come to the conclusion of Part One of the Catechism! Fr. Mike reviews the last “nugget” section on death and judgment, inviting us to regularly ponder the moment of our own death and judgment before our Lord. We conclude today with an explanation of the meaning of the word “amen” and the significance it has for our belief in God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1051-1065.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 122: Christ’s Faithful </title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-122-23</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">cd1ed48f-8586-452b-8fd1-ae789a0c13ca</guid>
  <pubDate>Tue, 02 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cd1ed48f-8586-452b-8fd1-ae789a0c13ca.mp3" length="19686185" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>20:30</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>hierarchy, laity, consecrated life, mission, bishops, priest, college of bishops, ecclesial ministry, sacraments, grace, jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>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, emphasizing that they are equal in dignity but different in the way they support the Church’s mission. We also learn that all of Christ’s faithful share in the priestly, prophetical, and kingly office of Christ. Lastly, Fr. Mike reviews the mission and characters of ecclesial ministry. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 871-879.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 109: Mystery of Union With God</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-109-2023</link>
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  <pubDate>Wed, 19 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/983de2c8-e36b-4364-bb0a-23851acaf75a.mp3" length="17793064" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:09</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>mystery, union, holiness, mary, bridegroom, bride, unity, sacrament, grace, jesus, catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Do we love the Church? Some of us might struggle with that idea, but Fr. Mike explains that if we are to love and live in accordance with the heart of Jesus, we must love what he loves. Jesus, the bridegroom, loves his bride, the Church, so we must love the Church. We also learn that the sacraments are not only signs but also the very instruments by which the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 772-780.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 14: The Eternal Word of God</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-14-2023</link>
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  <pubDate>Sat, 14 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/55adab67-6583-401c-aebc-376a5dc428f4.mp3" length="16463192" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:08</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Catechism, catechism in a year, tradition, scripture, father mike schmitz, fr mike schmitz, ascension, word of god, bible, sacredness of scripture, revelation, grace, free will, truth, scriptures, religion, living word of god, eternal word of god,jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Fr. Mike reflects on the sacredness of Scripture and why the Church venerates Scripture with great reverence. He helps us understand the mystery behind the powerful reality that God speaks to us through human authors. Most importantly, Fr. Mike reminds us that the eternal Word of God is both living and true. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 101-108.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Day 7: God Reveals Himself</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-7-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">27239420-eec4-4673-8319-d178a7f80194</guid>
  <pubDate>Sat, 07 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
  <enclosure url="https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/27239420-eec4-4673-8319-d178a7f80194.mp3" length="16293817" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:30</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy
Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. 
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Revelation, knowing god, understanding god, grace, loving god, creation, god’s plan for man, redemption, truth, love of god, fullness of truth, unity, creation of man, promise of salvation, seeking truth, meaning of life,jesus,catechism, catechism of the catholic church, catechism in a year, fr mike, fr mike schmitz, father mike schmitz, father mike, catholic, catholicism, catholic church, catholic faith, catholic teachings, catholic doctrine, foundations of faith, ascension, tradition, scripture, bible, </itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>God reveals himself to man and gives us the capacity to know and love him beyond our own natural abilities. From the very beginning, even after the first sin of Adam and Eve, God made himself known to human beings and gave us a promise of redemption. Fr. Mike explains how God’s covenant with Noah offers hope for salvation and unity that are only made possible in Christ. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 50-58.</p>

<p>For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy</p>

<p>Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.</p>

<p>This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
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