Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Episode: Day 10: The Apostolic Tradition

Release Date: January 10, 2025

Introduction

In Day 10 of Ascension’s The Catechism in a Year podcast series, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the essential topic of Apostolic Tradition. This episode explores how divine revelation has been transmitted through the ages, emphasizing the intertwined relationship between Scripture and Tradition within the Catholic faith. Fr. Mike articulates the significance of understanding this transmission to fully grasp what it means to be Catholic and to experience transformation through faith.

Overview of Today’s Reading

Fr. Mike guides listeners through Paragraphs 74 to 79 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, specifically focusing on Article Two of Chapter Two, Section One: Revelation. This segment addresses the Transmission of Divine Revelation, outlining how God’s revelation has been preserved and passed down from the apostles to the present-day Church.

Key Themes and Discussions

1. Transmission of Divine Revelation

Fr. Mike begins by unpacking the concept of Tradition, defining it as the act of handing on the truths of faith. He emphasizes that divine revelation has been transmitted in two primary ways:

• Orally: Through the preaching and teaching of the apostles.
• In Writing: Through the Scriptures that have been handed down over time.

“Tradition means to hand on... it's been handed on in two ways, orally and in writing.” (04:30)

2. Scripture and Tradition: A Complementary Relationship

Highlighting the inseparable relationship between Scripture and Tradition, Fr. Mike clarifies that both are essential sources of divine revelation. He notes that while many are familiar with the written aspect (the Bible), the oral transmission—the preaching of the apostles—is equally vital and foundational to the existence of the Scriptures themselves.

“We recognize that we wouldn’t even have the Bible if it weren’t for the oral teaching of the apostles.” (12:15)

3. Apostolic Tradition and Succession

Delving deeper, Fr. Mike discusses Apostolic Succession, the unbroken line of bishops stretching back to the apostles. He cites St. Paul’s letters, particularly 1 Timothy 2:4 and 2 Timothy 2:2, to illustrate how teachings were entrusted from one generation to the next.

“What you've heard from me before, before many witnesses entrust to other faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” (15:45)

He underscores that this succession ensures the continuity and fidelity of the Church’s teachings, maintaining the integrity of divine revelation through the ages.

4. DEI Verbum: The Word of God

Fr. Mike introduces DEI Verbum, the Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation from the Second Vatican Council. He explains its significance in defining and safeguarding the understanding of divine revelation within the Church.

“DEI Verbum ... it's accessible... it's so good.” (08:50)

Fr. Mike encourages listeners to engage with this document, highlighting its role in elucidating the relationship between Scripture, Tradition, and the ongoing revelation through the Holy Spirit.

5. Role of the Early Church Fathers

Addressing the contributions of the Early Church Fathers, Fr. Mike references Pope Clement's letter to the Corinthians from the year 80 AD. He illustrates how figures like St. Clement, St. Ignatius, and St. Irenaeus were pivotal in establishing and maintaining Apostolic Succession.

“Through countryside and city, the apostles preached and they appointed their earliest converts... to be bishops and deacons of future believers.” (20:10)

This historical perspective reinforces the timeless nature of Tradition and its critical role in preserving the Church’s teachings.

6. The Living Tradition: Purpose and Impact

Fr. Mike emphasizes that the transmission of Tradition is not merely a historical act but a living, dynamic process guided by the Holy Spirit. He articulates that this living tradition leads believers to the full truth, enabling the Word of Christ to dwell richly within them.

“God continues to converse with us through the Holy Spirit, leading believers to the full truth and making the Word of Christ dwell in them in all its richness.” (18:35)

He calls on listeners to actively participate in this tradition, ensuring that the richness of the faith is passed on to future generations.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Fr. Mike Schmitz: “Tradition means to hand on... it's been handed on in two ways, orally and in writing.” (04:30)

• Fr. Mike Schmitz: “We recognize that we wouldn’t even have the Bible if it weren’t for the oral teaching of the apostles.” (12:15)

• Fr. Mike Schmitz: “What you've heard from me before, before many witnesses entrust to other faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” (15:45)

• Fr. Mike Schmitz: “DEI Verbum ... it's accessible... it's so good.” (08:50)

• Fr. Mike Schmitz: “Through countryside and city, the apostles preached and they appointed their earliest converts... to be bishops and deacons of future believers.” (20:10)

• Fr. Mike Schmitz: “God continues to converse with us through the Holy Spirit, leading believers to the full truth and making the Word of Christ dwell in them in all its richness.” (18:35)

Conclusion and Call to Action

Fr. Mike wraps up the episode by presenting Tradition as a relay race, where each generation receives and passes on the baton of divine revelation. He urges listeners to actively embrace and continue this tradition, ensuring that the richness of the Catholic faith is maintained and transmitted to future generations.

“I want to take that baton and I want to run with it. I want you to run with it, too, so that we can hand it on to the next generation.” (19:20)

Fr. Mike humbly acknowledges his own need for strength, asking for prayers as he commits to this mission alongside his listeners.

“I ask, please pray for me. I am praying for you.” (20:25)

Closing Prayer

The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer led by Fr. Mike, inviting listeners to seek God’s guidance and openness as they engage with the day’s readings and reflections.

“Father in Heaven, we give You thanks and praise as we begin this day. We ask You to please be with us, open our minds and our hearts so that we can receive what You want to hand on to us... Help us to receive that today so that we can not just know about this, not just know about You, but that we can live it and we can love You. We make this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.” (06:50)

Final Thoughts

Fr. Mike Schmitz effectively bridges the historical and spiritual dimensions of Apostolic Tradition, providing listeners with a profound understanding of how divine revelation has been meticulously preserved and transmitted. This episode not only educates but also inspires believers to actively participate in sustaining and enriching the Catholic faith through informed tradition and personal transformation.

For those seeking to deepen their faith and understanding of Catholic doctrine, The Catechism in a Year podcast offers a structured and insightful journey through the Catechism, guided by Fr. Mike’s insightful explanations and heartfelt encouragement.

Listen to the full episode here.