Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Day 116: The Church Is Holy

Introduction In Day 116 of Ascension’s The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the profound truth that "The Church Is Holy." This episode, released on April 26, 2025, explores paragraphs 823 to 829 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, unraveling the Church's inherent holiness despite its imperfections. Fr. Mike guides listeners through understanding the sanctifying role of the Holy Spirit, the foundational mark of holiness, and the indispensable role of love within the Church's mission.

Understanding the Church’s Holiness Fr. Mike begins by reiterating the four marks of the Church: Holy, Catholic, Apostolic, and Unity. Today's focus is on the first mark—Holy. He emphasizes that while the Church is composed of sinners, it remains holy because it is founded by Jesus Christ and sustained by the Holy Spirit.

[08:23] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "The Church is held as a matter of faith to be unfailingly holy... Jesus... loved the Church as His bride, giving Himself up for her so as to sanctify her."

This foundational belief underscores that the Church's holiness is not a product of its members but a divine gift from the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Sanctification Through Christ and the Holy Spirit Fr. Mike explains that the Church's sanctity is a dynamic process facilitated by its union with Christ and the Holy Spirit. This sanctification empowers the Church to become a vessel of holiness to the world.

[08:24] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "United with Christ, the Church is sanctified by him, through him, and with him she becomes sanctifying."

All activities within the Church are directed towards two ultimate ends: the sanctification of humanity in Christ and the glorification of God. This dual purpose is evident in every liturgical celebration, charitable act, and mission undertaken by the Church.

The Centrality of Love in Holiness A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to exploring the essence of holiness through love, drawing inspiration from Saint Therese of Lisieux and Pope Paul VI.

[08:26] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "Charity is the soul of the holiness to which all are called. It governs, shapes, and perfects all the means of sanctification."

Saint Therese beautifully illustrates that love is the core motive force of the Church’s actions. Without love, even the most noble endeavors lose their purpose.

[08:26] Saint Therese of Lisieux (as quoted by Fr. Mike): "If the Church was a body composed of different members, it couldn't lack the noblest of all. It must have a heart, and a heart burning with love."

This perspective aligns with Saint Paul’s teachings, emphasizing that without love, all other virtues are rendered meaningless.

The Role of Saints and Renewal Pope Paul VI’s insights further enrich the discussion by highlighting the enduring sanctity of the Church despite the presence of sinners.

[08:27] Pope Paul VI (as quoted by Fr. Mike): "The Church is therefore holy, though having sinners in her midst, because she herself has no other life but the life of grace."

Saints play a pivotal role in this sanctifying mission. They serve as models of heroic virtue and intercessors, fostering renewal even in the most challenging times.

[08:28] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "The saints have always been the source and origin of renewal in the most difficult moments in the Church's history."

Living Out Holiness Today Fr. Mike challenges listeners to embody holiness through active love and participation in the Church’s mission. He underscores the necessity of continual repentance and the pursuit of sanctity.

[08:29] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "In the twilight of our lives, we will be judged on love alone."

This call to action invites believers to align their hearts with Christ, ensuring that their love drives all actions within and beyond the Church community.

Conclusion and Prayer Fr. Mike concludes the episode with a heartfelt prayer, thanking God for the gift of the holy Church and seeking strength to remain steadfast in faith and love.

[End of Transcript] Fr. Mike Schmitz: "We will be judged on love alone... I know that I don't love like I should so please pray for me. I'm praying for you."

He encourages listeners to actively choose holiness, embracing the Church’s mission to sanctify the world through the love of Christ.

Key Takeaways

• Holiness of the Church: The Church is inherently holy because it is founded by Jesus Christ and sustained by the Holy Spirit, despite the presence of sinners.
• Role of Love: Love is the central virtue that drives the Church’s actions and sanctification efforts.
• Sanctification and Glorification: The Church’s activities aim to sanctify humanity and glorify God, manifesting the Church’s divine purpose.
• Inspiration from Saints: Saints exemplify heroic virtue and inspire ongoing renewal and holiness within the Church.
• Personal Call to Holiness: Believers are urged to actively participate in the Church’s mission, embodying love and seeking continual sanctification.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Fr. Mike Schmitz [08:23]: "The Church is held as a matter of faith to be unfailingly holy."
• Saint Therese of Lisieux [08:26]: "If the Church was a body composed of different members, it couldn't lack the noblest of all. It must have a heart, and a heart burning with love."
• Pope Paul VI [08:27]: "The Church is therefore holy, though having sinners in her midst, because she herself has no other life but the life of grace."
• Fr. Mike Schmitz [08:29]: "In the twilight of our lives, we will be judged on love alone."

Final Thoughts Day 116 of The Catechism in a Year invites listeners to deepen their understanding of the Church's holiness and their role within it. Fr. Mike Schmitz eloquently ties theological teachings to practical living, encouraging believers to let love be the driving force in their journey toward sanctity. This episode serves as a profound reminder of the divine foundation of the Church and the transformative power of love in fulfilling its mission.