Encountering Divine Revelation Through the Catechism with Father Mike Schmitz

Discovering Our Identity in God's Family with Father Mike Schmitz

Father Mike Schmitz introduces us to a profound journey through the Catechism of the Catholic Church in his podcast, 'Catechism in a Year'. Sponsored by Ascension, this daily podcast aims to deepen our understanding of divine revelation and our relationship with God over the course of a year.

Day Four Insights

On day four, Father Mike begins with paragraphs 26-35 of the catechism, focusing on humanity's inherent capacity for God. He clarifies that when he refers to 'man', it symbolizes all humanity, emphasizing inclusivity in God's call.

The Human Heart's Desire for God

One of the core messages from these paragraphs is that every human heart harbors a desire for God. This longing is not just an emotional inclination but is embedded in our very nature. We are crafted by and for God, and it is only in Him that we find true fulfillment and happiness. This segment reveals that our identity is intertwined with our creator, and recognizing this is pivotal to understanding ourselves and our purpose.

Ways to Recognize God’s Presence

Father Mike elaborates on how we can recognize the existence of God through both the world around us and within ourselves:

• The World: By observing nature and its laws, we can infer the existence of a higher power who is the origin and end of all things. The order, beauty, and complexity of the universe point towards a divine creator.

• The Human Person: Our own experiences, thoughts, moral judgments, and aesthetic appreciations hint at a reality beyond what is tangible. These aspects of human existence suggest that we are more than just material beings; there is a spiritual dimension that directs us towards God.

Prayer and Reflection

Each episode starts with a prayer, setting a reflective tone that encourages listeners to open their hearts to God’s words. Father Mike’s prayers emphasize an active engagement with faith, urging us not only to seek knowledge about God but also to cultivate a personal relationship with Him.

Educational Approach and Accessibility

Father Mike uses the Ascension edition of the catechism but reassures listeners that any recent version can be used for following along. He also mentions resources available at Ascension Press for those who wish to integrate these teachings more closely with their daily lives.

Engaging with Faith Daily

Subscribing or following his podcast ensures that listeners receive regular updates and remain consistent in their spiritual journey. Each day builds upon previous teachings, gradually expanding understanding and fostering a stronger connection with faith.

Conclusion on Day Four’s Teachings

Father Mike concludes by highlighting how each individual's response to divine revelation shapes their faith journey. He stresses that faith involves an active response—not just intellectual acceptance but also heartfelt commitment—to fully experience its transformative power. In summary, 'Catechism in a Year' offers an enriching exploration of Catholic doctrine aimed at nurturing both mind and spirit. It invites listeners to reflect on their personal beliefs while providing them tools to deepen their understanding of faith.

Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRpDxjB9K9U