Day 11: Sources of Divine Revelation (2025)

The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Published: Sat Jan 11 2025

Fr. Mike breaks down the Catechism’s teaching that divine revelation consists of both Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition and emphasizes why both sources are of equal importance in the Faith. He also clarifies the difference between Apostolic Tradition and ecclesial traditions. Lastly, Fr. Mike encourages us to receive with docility the teachings and directives of the Magisterium of the Church, trusting in the authority of the Pope and the bishops. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 80-87.

Summary

Summary of "Day 11: Sources of Divine Revelation" from The Catechism in a Year Podcast

Podcast Information:

Title: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Episode: Day 11: Sources of Divine Revelation
Release Date: January 11, 2025
Duration: 15-20 minutes

Introduction

In Day 11 of Ascension's The Catechism in a Year podcast series, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the foundational sources of Divine Revelation within the Catholic faith. This episode focuses on understanding how Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and the Magisterium collaboratively convey God's revelation to the faithful.

Overview of Episode Content

Fr. Mike begins by revisiting the significance of Divine Revelation, emphasizing that it is not solely contained within the Bible but is a harmonious interplay between Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. He underscores the critical role of the Magisterium, the Church's teaching authority, in preserving and interpreting this revelation.

Key Themes Discussed

1. Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition

Fr. Mike explores how Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition originate from the same divine source and work in unison to reveal God's will. He states:

"Sacred Tradition and Sacred Scripture flow from the one source who is our Lord God." (04:30)

He clarifies a common misconception that the Bible is the only form of Divine Revelation, highlighting that Sacred Tradition encompasses the oral teachings and practices handed down from the apostles.

2. Relationship Between Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium

The episode emphasizes the interconnectedness of the three pillars:

Sacred Scripture is the written word of God.
Sacred Tradition includes the oral teachings and practices.
The Magisterium is tasked with interpreting both Scripture and Tradition faithfully.

Fr. Mike references the Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation (Dei Verbum), explaining:

"Sacred Tradition and Sacred Scripture then are bound closely together and communicate one with the other... to form one thing and move towards the same goal." (06:15)

3. Distinction Between Big T Tradition and small t Traditions

Fr. Mike distinguishes between Big T Tradition (with a capital "T") and small t traditions:

Big T Tradition: Refers to the Apostolic Tradition, the foundational teachings and practices established by the apostles.
Small t traditions: These are theological, disciplinary, liturgical, or devotional traditions that may evolve over time.

He illustrates this with the example of the Rosary:

"The Rosary had 15 mysteries of the Rosary... John Paul II added the Luminous Mysteries, bringing the total to 20 mysteries." (16:45)

This modification serves to deepen the faithful's reflection on Christ's life, showcasing how small t traditions can adapt while remaining rooted in Big T Tradition.

4. Role of the Magisterium

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to explaining the Magisterium:

Definition: The teaching authority of the Church, exercised by the bishops in communion with the Pope.
Function: Responsible for the authentic interpretation of Scripture and Tradition.

Fr. Mike underscores its importance:

"The Magisterium... is not superior to the Word of God, but is its servant." (19:20)

He emphasizes that the Magisterium ensures the faithful and accurate transmission of Divine Revelation, preventing misinterpretations and preserving the integrity of the faith.

5. Scriptural Foundation Against "Scripture Alone"

Addressing the Protestant principle of "Sola Scriptura" (Scripture Alone), Fr. Mike argues that the Catechism clearly states:

"Scripture does not derive her certainty about all revealed truths from the Holy Scriptures alone." (12:10)

He points out the absence of any scriptural basis for the "Scripture Alone" doctrine, reinforcing the necessity of Tradition and the Magisterium in understanding and living out the faith.

Notable Quotes

Fr. Mike Schmitz:
- "Sacred Tradition and Sacred Scripture flow from the one source who is our Lord God." (04:30)
- "The task of giving an authentic interpretation of the Word of God has been entrusted to the living teaching office of the Church alone." (18:40)
- "If someone were to try to argue for the position of Scripture alone, you'd say... it doesn't say that Scripture is the sole rule of faith." (13:55)

Insights and Conclusions

Fr. Mike elucidates that Divine Revelation is a unified and dynamic truth conveyed through both the written word and living traditions, all under the guidance of the Magisterium. He highlights the historical precedence of Tradition over Scripture, noting that the early Church transmitted the faith orally before it was codified in writing.

The episode serves as a robust defense against reductionist views of Revelation and underscores the Catholic understanding of a living and active faith, continually guided and interpreted by its teaching authorities.

Fr. Mike’s Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Concluding the episode, Fr. Mike offers heartfelt encouragement to listeners:

"Just stay faithful to this, because the Lord still has much, much, much to teach you." (22:10)

He reminds the community of the importance of collective journeying through the Catechism, fostering a sense of unity and support. Fr. Mike emphasizes the communal aspect of faith formation, urging listeners to remain steadfast and prayerful as they navigate the depths of the Catholic faith.

Final Prayer

The episode begins and ends with a reverent prayer, inviting listeners to seek divine guidance and understanding:

"In Jesus' name we pray. Amen." (03:25)

This prayer sets a contemplative tone, framing the entire discussion within the context of seeking God's truth and benevolence.

Conclusion

Day 11 of The Catechism in a Year provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the sources of Divine Revelation within the Catholic tradition. Fr. Mike Schmitz effectively communicates the intricate relationship between Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and the Magisterium, reinforcing the unity and depth of the Catholic faith. His engaging presentation, enriched with scriptural references and practical examples, offers listeners a profound understanding of how God's revelation is meticulously preserved and interpreted, guiding believers towards a deeper relationship with Him.