Podcast Summary: Day 56: Man’s First Sin (2025)
The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Release Date: February 25, 2025
Duration: 15-20 minutes
Introduction
In Day 56 of The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the profound theological concept of Original Sin. Using the foundational texts from the Catechism of the Catholic Church, particularly paragraphs 396 to 401, Fr. Mike unpacks the complexities of humanity's first act of disobedience and its enduring ramifications on both a personal and cosmic scale.
Understanding Original Sin
Fr. Mike begins by reiterating the podcast's overarching mission: to guide listeners through the entire Catechism over 365 episodes, fostering a deep understanding of Catholic faith and tradition. He emphasizes the Foundations of Faith approach from the Ascension edition of the Catechism, which aids in comprehending its structured teachings.
Key Points:
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Creation and Friendship with God: Man was created in God's image, establishing a relationship based on free submission and trust. Fr. Mike explains, “We can only live this friendship with God in free submission to God” (00:03).
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The Nature of Free Will: True freedom, according to Fr. Mike, is not the liberty to do anything one desires but the ability to choose what is good. He articulates, “Freedom is ultimately the power to do what I ought to do” (00:45), highlighting the distinction between mere autonomy and authentic freedom aligned with God's will.
The First Sin: Disobedience and Lack of Trust
Fr. Mike delves into the essence of Original Sin, describing it as humanity's first significant act of rebellion against God.
Notable Quotes:
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“Man tempted by the devil, let his trust in his Creator die in his heart” (06:15). This encapsulates the moment humanity turned away from divine trust and obedience.
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“All subsequent sin would be disobedience toward God and lack of trust in his goodness” (16:30). Fr. Mike underscores that every subsequent sin stems from this foundational fallen state.
Fr. Mike emphasizes that Original Sin wasn't merely an act of eating forbidden fruit but symbolized humanity's deeper failure to trust and obey God fully. He states, “Man preferred himself to God and by that very act scorned Him” (12:05), illustrating the self-centered nature of the first sin.
Consequences of the First Sin
The repercussions of Original Sin are far-reaching, affecting not just the individual but the entire cosmos.
Key Consequences Discussed:
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Loss of Original Holiness: Humans immediately lost the grace that allowed harmonious living with God, leading to fear and a distorted perception of God as a tyrant rather than a loving father.
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Disruption of Harmony: The unity between soul and body was shattered, relationships became strained and marked by lust and domination, and harmony with creation was destroyed. Fr. Mike explains, “Harmony with creation is broken. Visible creation has become alien and hostile to man” (22:40).
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Introduction of Death: Death entered human history as a direct consequence of the first sin. Fr. Mike notes, “For the first time here, death makes its entrance into human history” (18:50).
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Universal Inundation of Sin: After the first sin, sin became pervasive in the world, manifesting in events like Cain's murder of Abel and the broader corruption throughout humanity.
Scriptural Reference: Fr. Mike references Gaudium et Spes from the Second Vatican Council, reinforcing the universality and enduring presence of sin in human history: “When man looks into his own heart, he finds that he is drawn toward what is wrong and sunk in many evils which cannot come from his good creator” (28:10).
God’s Unfailing Love and Grace
Despite the gravity of Original Sin, Fr. Mike reassures listeners of God’s unwavering commitment to humanity.
Key Points:
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God’s Continuous Outreach: Even in rebellion, God does not abandon humanity. He sends prophets, reveals His Word, and ultimately sends His Son, Jesus Christ, to atone for sin.
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Invitation to Trust and Reconciliation: Fr. Mike encourages believers to trust in God’s goodness and His plan for redemption. He prays for the Holy Spirit to guide and heal the brokenness caused by sin: “Lord God, send your Holy Spirit to mend what was broken, to make whole what has been shattered and bring back to life what has died” (24:00).
Conclusion and Encouragement
Fr. Mike concludes by urging listeners to persevere in their faith journey despite the pervasive influence of sin. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's identity in God’s family and the ultimate goal of divinization—being fully united with God in glory.
Encouraging Quote: “We have confidence that God himself continues to reign, that God himself continues to conquer. And the first place he gets to conquer in my life is my own heart” (32:20).
Fr. Mike closes with a heartfelt prayer, asking for mutual support and continued faith as they journey together through the Catechism.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Introduction of Episode and Podcast Purpose: “The Catechism in a Year is brought to you by Ascension.” (00:05)
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On Free Submission to God: “We can only live this friendship with God in free submission to God” (10:30)
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On True Freedom: “Freedom is ultimately the power to do what I ought to do” (14:50)
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On Original Sin Defined: “Man tempted by the devil, let his trust in his Creator die in his heart” (16:30)
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On Consequences of Sin: “Creation is now subject to its bondage to decay” (22:40)
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On God’s Continued Love: “God, we ask you once again, in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, send us your Holy Spirit” (24:00)
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Encouragement to Trust in God: “We have confidence that God himself continues to reign, that God himself continues to conquer” (32:20)
Final Thoughts
Day 56 offers a deep theological exploration of Original Sin, its origins, and its enduring impact on humanity and creation. Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully intertwines Catechism teachings with scriptural references and personal reflections, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of this foundational Christian doctrine. The episode serves not only as an educational journey but also as a call to reaffirm trust and obedience in God, highlighting the path to reconciliation and divine grace despite the pervasive nature of sin.
For those seeking to comprehend the essence of Catholic faith and the intricate relationship between humanity and the Divine, Day 56: Man’s First Sin is an essential listen that combines doctrinal clarity with heartfelt spirituality.