Podcast Summary: BONUS Episode – "How Do We Trust in Church Authority?" (with Bishop Cozzens)
Podcast Title: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host: Ascension
Release Date: December 30, 2024

Introduction

In this special bonus episode of The Catechism in a Year podcast, host Fr. Mike Schmitz welcomes Bishop Andrew Cousins as a guest to discuss the critical topic of trusting Church authority. This episode serves as a pre-launch primer ahead of the official start of the catechism journey on January 1st.

Bishop Cousins’ Journey and Involvement with the Catechism

Timestamp: 00:00 – 07:42

Fr. Mike Schmitz introduces Bishop Cousins, who preaches the second pillar of the catechism—the sacraments. Bishop Cousins shares his personal journey, highlighting his deep-rooted Catholic upbringing and early desire to serve the Church. He recounts memories from seminary, the impact of the Catechism's publication during his studies, and his ongoing commitment to catechesis through both academic and pastoral roles. Notably, Bishop Cousins emphasizes the Catechism's enduring relevance:

“I have a doctorate degree in theology, but I still use the catechism when I want to teach on certain topics because it's such a practical and actually really deep tool.”
— Bishop Cousins [02:03]

The Beauty and Practicality of the Catechism

Timestamp: 07:42 – 15:19

Bishop Cousins delves into the Catechism's profound beauty and practical application. He praises its comprehensive structure and seamless integration of Sacred Scripture and Tradition. He explains how the Catechism enriches both intellectual understanding and personal prayer life:

“Dogma is actually putting you in direct contact with God. And that helps you to experience and know God. And you can't love what you don't know.”
— Bishop Cousins [09:45]

Fr. Mike reflects on the Catechism's role in fostering a biblical worldview and its invitation to transformation rather than mere information.

Understanding Church Authority and Infallibility

Timestamp: 15:19 – 22:11

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the authority of the Church. Bishop Cousins articulates that all Church authority derives from Christ, underscoring the concept of infallibility in safeguarding essential truths for salvation. He differentiates between the infallibility of the Church's teachings and the fallibility of its members:

“The truth has been maintained despite all the errors and brokenness throughout 2000 years.”
— Bishop Cousins [26:52]

He further explains the necessity of authority in fostering obedience, which aligns believers with Christ's salvific mission:

“Authority is a great gift because it allows us to be obedient. And what is it that saved us? It was Jesus' obedience.”
— Bishop Cousins [15:19]

Catechism as a Tool for Evangelization

Timestamp: 19:25 – 22:11

Bishop Cousins elucidates the Catechism's role in evangelization. He describes it as a living document that not only lists Church teachings but actively engages believers in experiencing and sharing their faith. The Catechism, enriched by centuries of theological wisdom and the testimonies of saints, serves as a foundation for spreading the Gospel:

“When we receive it, it creates new life in us, new insights, new ways to live the gospel.”
— Bishop Cousins [20:19]

Trust and Openness in Approaching the Catechism

Timestamp: 22:11 – 30:47

The conversation shifts to personal faith and the importance of trust when engaging with the Catechism. Bishop Cousins compares faith to everyday acts of trust, emphasizing that understanding and obedience stem from a relational trust in Jesus and the Holy Spirit guiding the Church:

“It's always an act of trust in a person.”
— Bishop Cousins [23:26]

He encourages listeners to approach the Catechism with an open heart, allowing it to transform their understanding and relationship with God.

Addressing Skepticism and Brokenness in the Church

Timestamp: 30:47 – 33:09

Fr. Mike raises concerns about the perceived brokenness within the Church and historical failings that might lead to skepticism about Church authority. Bishop Cousins responds by distinguishing the Church's teachings from the flawed actions of its members:

“The brokenness and sin of individuals do not taint the Church's enduring truth.”
— Bishop Cousins [28:36]

He underscores that the Holy Spirit continues to guide the Church, ensuring the preservation of essential truths despite human imperfections.

Encouragement for the Catechism Journey

Timestamp: 33:09 – End

As the episode concludes, Bishop Cousins offers heartfelt encouragement to listeners embarking on their Catechism journey. He highlights the Catechism's ability to deepen understanding, inspire love, and transform lives through a comprehensive study of God's revelation:

“The more you study baptism or the more you study the moral life, you're actually seeing a part of the beauty of God and that's going to change your life.”
— Bishop Cousins [29:31]

Fr. Mike reinforces the practical steps listeners can take to engage with the Catechism, including accessing the reading plan and subscribing to the podcast for daily guidance.

Closing Prayer

The episode concludes with a prayer, asking for divine guidance, increased faith, and the blessing of listeners as they prepare to delve into the Catechism.

Key Takeaways

• Authority and Infallibility: The Church's authority, rooted in Christ, ensures the preservation of essential truths necessary for salvation. This authority is not infallible in all worldly aspects but is protected by the Holy Spirit in matters of doctrine and faith.

• Catechism as Evangelization: The Catechism serves as both a comprehensive guide to Catholic teachings and a tool for evangelization, fostering deeper relationships with God and inspiring believers to share their faith.

• Trust in the Catechism Journey: Approaching the Catechism with trust and openness allows for transformative growth in understanding and living out one's faith, despite historical and present challenges within the Church.

• Living Tradition: The Catechism encapsulates centuries of theological wisdom and the testimonies of saints, providing a rich resource for both personal growth and communal faith expression.

This bonus episode offers profound insights into the nature of Church authority and the invaluable role of the Catechism in fostering a faithful and obedient Christian life. Bishop Cousins' thoughtful reflections aim to prepare listeners for a meaningful year-long exploration of the Catholic faith.