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    <title>The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) - Episodes Tagged with “Priests”</title>
    <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/tags/priests</link>
    <pubDate>Wed, 10 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>
    <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/c/cdfbae20-3944-4880-bb6c-5860a901b00a/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
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    <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>
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  <itunes:category text="Christianity"/>
</itunes:category>
<itunes:category text="Religion &amp; Spirituality">
  <itunes:category text="Spirituality"/>
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<item>
  <title>Day 344: Guides for Prayer (2025)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-344-2025</link>
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  <pubDate>Wed, 10 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/6f21ac96-38b7-4db7-b7c9-ee05118233d4.mp3" length="17438138" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>18:09</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>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.
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>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.</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>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.</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 125: Vocation of the Laity (2025)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-125-2025</link>
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  <pubDate>Mon, 05 May 2025 03:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Ascension</author>
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  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>The term "laity" refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ's priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 897-903.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>19:36</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 term "laity" refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ's priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 897-903.
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>Universal, vocation, laity, lay people, salvation, priests, bishop, 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 term &quot;laity&quot; refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ&#39;s priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 897-903.</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 term &quot;laity&quot; refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ&#39;s priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 897-903.</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 121: The Apostolate  (2025)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-121-2025</link>
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  <pubDate>Thu, 01 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/735278fd-952a-44f1-9057-2a626a33613e.mp3" length="17052413" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:45</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>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. 
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>apostolate, mission, kingdom of christ, soul of the apostolate, fruitfulness, lay people, priests, apostolic, 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>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. </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>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. </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 120: The Apostolic Church (2025)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-120-2025</link>
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  <pubDate>Wed, 30 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/e21dd5c8-b3e9-4e5d-a9d3-8ca624898c77.mp3" length="15541205" type="audio/mpeg"/>
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  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>The fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her "apostolic" nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles' successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:11</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 fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her "apostolic" nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles' successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. 
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>apostolic church, apostles, peter, pope, bishops, apostolic succession, successors, priests, 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 fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her &quot;apostolic&quot; nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles&#39; successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. </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 fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her &quot;apostolic&quot; nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles&#39; successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. </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 344: Guides for Prayer (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day344-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">ffbad64e-f38b-46af-acbe-57caa7017515</guid>
  <pubDate>Mon, 09 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/ffbad64e-f38b-46af-acbe-57caa7017515.mp3" length="17438138" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>18:09</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>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.
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>prayer, praying, how to pray, teachers of prayer, learning to pray, saints, priests, religious, family, catechesis, prayer groups, holiness, prayer life, guides of prayer, 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>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.</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>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.</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 218: Summary of Holy Orders (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day218-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">83a52d17-b127-4e64-8f5b-b79b8f7670cc</guid>
  <pubDate>Mon, 05 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/83a52d17-b127-4e64-8f5b-b79b8f7670cc.mp3" length="14931812" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Together, with Fr. Mike, we reach the conclusion and “nugget day” for the section on the sacrament of Holy Orders. Fr. Mike reiterates that all three degrees of the sacrament are a longed for element of the “priestly people.” They are those called to go before God and before his people as a mediator. Fr. Mike also explains that for those who are not called to either “sacrament of service”, Holy Orders or Matrimony, we are all called “to be able to rejoice with those who have received gifts.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1590-1600.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>15:08</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>Together, with Fr. Mike, we reach the conclusion and “nugget day” for the section on the sacrament of Holy Orders. Fr. Mike reiterates that all three degrees of the sacrament are a longed for element of the “priestly people.” They are those called to go before God and before his people as a mediator. Fr. Mike also explains that for those who are not called to either “sacrament of service”, Holy Orders or Matrimony, we are all called “to be able to rejoice with those who have received gifts.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1590-1600.
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>Sacraments, Holy Orders, Bishops, Presbyters, Priests, Deacons, Ordination, Celibacy 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 reach the conclusion and “nugget day” for the section on the sacrament of Holy Orders. Fr. Mike reiterates that all three degrees of the sacrament are a longed for element of the “priestly people.” They are those called to go before God and before his people as a mediator. Fr. Mike also explains that for those who are not called to either “sacrament of service”, Holy Orders or Matrimony, we are all called “to be able to rejoice with those who have received gifts.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1590-1600.</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 reach the conclusion and “nugget day” for the section on the sacrament of Holy Orders. Fr. Mike reiterates that all three degrees of the sacrament are a longed for element of the “priestly people.” They are those called to go before God and before his people as a mediator. Fr. Mike also explains that for those who are not called to either “sacrament of service”, Holy Orders or Matrimony, we are all called “to be able to rejoice with those who have received gifts.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1590-1600.</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 211: The One Priesthood of Christ (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day211-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">6619abac-f8c3-4e64-9256-3a26e1ba2f10</guid>
  <pubDate>Mon, 29 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/6619abac-f8c3-4e64-9256-3a26e1ba2f10.mp3" length="16876990" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>The priesthood of the Old Covenant among the people of Israel is fulfilled in the one priesthood of Christ. The Catechism compares the Old Testament priesthood, “powerless to bring about salvation,” with the ordained ministry in the New Covenant. Fr. Mike unpacks the reality that there is only one true priest—Jesus Christ. His “priests” on earth are humble ministers. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1539-1545.</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>The priesthood of the Old Covenant among the people of Israel is fulfilled in the one priesthood of Christ. The Catechism compares the Old Testament priesthood, “powerless to bring about salvation,” with the ordained ministry in the New Covenant. Fr. Mike unpacks the reality that there is only one true priest—Jesus Christ. His “priests” on earth are humble ministers. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1539-1545.
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>Sacrament of holy orders,economy of salvation,priesthood,old covenant,new covenant,old testament,new testament,chosen people,levi,levites,priesthood of aaron,ordination,bishops,priests,deacons,consecration,consecratory,priesthood of christ,prefigure,prefigured,type,typology,prefigurement,Melchizedek,mediator,true priest,ministers,ministry, 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 priesthood of the Old Covenant among the people of Israel is fulfilled in the one priesthood of Christ. The Catechism compares the Old Testament priesthood, “powerless to bring about salvation,” with the ordained ministry in the New Covenant. Fr. Mike unpacks the reality that there is only one true priest—Jesus Christ. His “priests” on earth are humble ministers. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1539-1545.</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 priesthood of the Old Covenant among the people of Israel is fulfilled in the one priesthood of Christ. The Catechism compares the Old Testament priesthood, “powerless to bring about salvation,” with the ordained ministry in the New Covenant. Fr. Mike unpacks the reality that there is only one true priest—Jesus Christ. His “priests” on earth are humble ministers. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1539-1545.</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 125: Vocation of the Laity (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day125-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">ef772f63-40b5-4c29-8bdf-51bf9dd58378</guid>
  <pubDate>Sat, 04 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/ef772f63-40b5-4c29-8bdf-51bf9dd58378.mp3" length="20165039" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>The term "laity" refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ's priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 897-903.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>19:36</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 term "laity" refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ's priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 897-903.
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>Universal, vocation, laity, lay people, salvation, priests, bishop 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 term &quot;laity&quot; refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ&#39;s priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 897-903.</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 term &quot;laity&quot; refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ&#39;s priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 897-903.</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 121: The Apostolate (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day121-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">e1c4f8d6-c51e-4a7d-bf50-a47e038133fa</guid>
  <pubDate>Tue, 30 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/e1c4f8d6-c51e-4a7d-bf50-a47e038133fa.mp3" length="17052413" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:45</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>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. 
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>apostolate, mission, kingdom of christ, soul of the apostolate, fruitfulness, lay people, priests, apostolic,  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>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. </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>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. </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 120: The Apostolic Church (2024)</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day120-2024</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">72989213-4ca3-47ae-9282-2b15bf2582a9</guid>
  <pubDate>Mon, 29 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/72989213-4ca3-47ae-9282-2b15bf2582a9.mp3" length="15541205" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>The fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her "apostolic" nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles' successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:11</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 fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her "apostolic" nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles' successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. 
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>apostolic church, apostles, peter, pope, bishops, apostolic succession, successors, priests,  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 fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her &quot;apostolic&quot; nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles&#39; successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. </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 fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her &quot;apostolic&quot; nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles&#39; successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. </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 344: Guides for Prayer</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-344-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">db9f27df-7a58-4fa5-af02-c92d8d55b37d</guid>
  <pubDate>Sun, 10 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/db9f27df-7a58-4fa5-af02-c92d8d55b37d.mp3" length="17438138" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>18:09</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>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.
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>prayer, praying, how to pray, teachers of prayer, learning to pray, saints, priests, religious, family, catechesis, prayer groups, holiness, prayer life, guides of prayer,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>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.</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>We are lifelong learners in the school of prayer. The Church offers various guides to help us grow and cultivate our prayer lives. These include the family, the saints, priests, religious brothers and sisters, prayer groups, spiritual directors, and more. These individuals and communities teach us to pray in different ways and inspire us to persevere in prayer. Fr. Mike invites us to reflect on how God calls us to lead others in the Faith. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2683-2690.</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 218: Summary of Holy Orders</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-218-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">9b915c07-88f8-4078-9342-9a946d9bf681</guid>
  <pubDate>Sun, 06 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/9b915c07-88f8-4078-9342-9a946d9bf681.mp3" length="14931812" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Together, with Fr. Mike, we reach the conclusion and “nugget day” for the section on the sacrament of Holy Orders. Fr. Mike reiterates that all three degrees of the sacrament are a longed for element of the “priestly people.” They are those called to go before God and before his people as a mediator. Fr. Mike also explains that for those who are not called to either “sacrament of service”, Holy Orders or Matrimony, we are all called “to be able to rejoice with those who have received gifts.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1590-1600.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>15:08</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>Together, with Fr. Mike, we reach the conclusion and “nugget day” for the section on the sacrament of Holy Orders. Fr. Mike reiterates that all three degrees of the sacrament are a longed for element of the “priestly people.” They are those called to go before God and before his people as a mediator. Fr. Mike also explains that for those who are not called to either “sacrament of service”, Holy Orders or Matrimony, we are all called “to be able to rejoice with those who have received gifts.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1590-1600.
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 reach the conclusion and “nugget day” for the section on the sacrament of Holy Orders. Fr. Mike reiterates that all three degrees of the sacrament are a longed for element of the “priestly people.” They are those called to go before God and before his people as a mediator. Fr. Mike also explains that for those who are not called to either “sacrament of service”, Holy Orders or Matrimony, we are all called “to be able to rejoice with those who have received gifts.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1590-1600.</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 reach the conclusion and “nugget day” for the section on the sacrament of Holy Orders. Fr. Mike reiterates that all three degrees of the sacrament are a longed for element of the “priestly people.” They are those called to go before God and before his people as a mediator. Fr. Mike also explains that for those who are not called to either “sacrament of service”, Holy Orders or Matrimony, we are all called “to be able to rejoice with those who have received gifts.” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1590-1600.</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 211: The One Priesthood of Christ</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day211-2023</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">db7c82ea-b197-4a98-be8c-2e69043b5be5</guid>
  <pubDate>Sun, 30 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/db7c82ea-b197-4a98-be8c-2e69043b5be5.mp3" length="16876990" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>The priesthood of the Old Covenant among the people of Israel is fulfilled in the one priesthood of Christ. The Catechism compares the Old Testament priesthood, “powerless to bring about salvation,” with the ordained ministry in the New Covenant. Fr. Mike unpacks the reality that there is only one true priest—Jesus Christ. His “priests” on earth are humble ministers. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1539-1545.</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>The priesthood of the Old Covenant among the people of Israel is fulfilled in the one priesthood of Christ. The Catechism compares the Old Testament priesthood, “powerless to bring about salvation,” with the ordained ministry in the New Covenant. Fr. Mike unpacks the reality that there is only one true priest—Jesus Christ. His “priests” on earth are humble ministers. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1539-1545.
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>Sacrament of holy orders,economy of salvation,priesthood,old covenant,new covenant,old testament,new testament,chosen people,levi,levites,priesthood of aaron,ordination,bishops,priests,deacons,consecration,consecratory,priesthood of christ,prefigure,prefigured,type,typology,prefigurement,Melchizedek,mediator,true priest,ministers,ministry,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 priesthood of the Old Covenant among the people of Israel is fulfilled in the one priesthood of Christ. The Catechism compares the Old Testament priesthood, “powerless to bring about salvation,” with the ordained ministry in the New Covenant. Fr. Mike unpacks the reality that there is only one true priest—Jesus Christ. His “priests” on earth are humble ministers. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1539-1545.</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 priesthood of the Old Covenant among the people of Israel is fulfilled in the one priesthood of Christ. The Catechism compares the Old Testament priesthood, “powerless to bring about salvation,” with the ordained ministry in the New Covenant. Fr. Mike unpacks the reality that there is only one true priest—Jesus Christ. His “priests” on earth are humble ministers. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1539-1545.</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 125: Vocation of the Laity</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-125-2023</link>
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  <pubDate>Fri, 05 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/8310179a-297b-4181-b47e-7daa8b30f26e.mp3" length="20165039" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>The term "laity" refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>19:36</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 term "laity" refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ's priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 897-903.
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>Universal, vocation, laity, lay people, salvation, priests, bishop, 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 term &quot;laity&quot; refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ&#39;s priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 897-903.</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 term &quot;laity&quot; refers to all the faithful, except those in Holy Orders and those who belong to a religious state approved by the Church. We learn about the special vocation lay people have to seek the Kingdom of God as they engage in temporal affairs. They live in the world and bring the Gospel to places priests and religious cannot access. Father Mike explains that in this way, the lay faithful not only participate in the Church but are the Church. The laity participate in Christ&#39;s priestly vocation by making every part of their lives an offering to God. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 897-903.</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 121: The Apostolate </title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/day-121-23</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">2104179b-c8ef-4cbc-a6c9-59e05b0113bb</guid>
  <pubDate>Mon, 01 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/2104179b-c8ef-4cbc-a6c9-59e05b0113bb.mp3" length="17052413" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>17:45</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>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. 
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>apostolate, mission, kingdom of christ, soul of the apostolate, fruitfulness, lay people, priests, apostolic, 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>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. </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>For the Church to remain truly apostolic, she must exercise the apostolate, which is the mission “to spread the Kingdom of Christ over all the earth.” Today’s readings remind us that all members of the Church are “sent out” on a mission to proclaim the Good News. Most importantly, Fr. Mike emphasizes that charity, drawn from our unity with Christ, is the “soul” of the whole apostolate that leads us to bear fruit. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 863-870. </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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<item>
  <title>Day 120: The Apostolic Church</title>
  <link>https://catechisminayear.fireside.fm/ciy-day-120</link>
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  <pubDate>Sun, 30 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/819f92b8-f180-4ee6-880e-dc020e8744c5.mp3" length="15541205" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Ascension</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>The fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her "apostolic" nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles' successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>16:11</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 fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her "apostolic" nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles' successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. 
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>apostolic church, apostles, peter, pope, bishops, apostolic succession, successors, priests, 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 fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her &quot;apostolic&quot; nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles&#39; successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. </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 fourth mark of the Catholic Church is her &quot;apostolic&quot; nature. Fr. Mike explains the three ways the Church is apostolic and discusses how this characteristic shapes the unique structure and Tradition of the Catholic Church. He also encourages us to pray for our local bishops, who continue to shepherd us in the Faith today as the Apostles&#39; successors. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 857-862. </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>]]>
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