Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Episode: Day 118: The Church and Non-Christians
Release Date: April 28, 2025

Introduction

In Day 118 of The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the Catholic Church's relationship with non-Christian religions. Covering paragraphs 839 to 848 of the Catechism, Fr. Schmitz explores how the Church interacts with Judaism, Islam, and other non-Christian faiths, while also unpacking the profound statement, "Outside the Church, there is no salvation." This episode provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the Church's universal mission and its approach to salvation for all humanity.

The Four Marks of the Church

Fr. Schmitz begins by revisiting the four marks of the Church: one, holy, Catholic, and Apostolic. He emphasizes the dual meaning of "Catholic," highlighting both the Church's universality and its role in salvation. He explains:

“The fullness of the means of salvation, the fullness of truth subsists in the Catholic Church.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (05:30)

He underscores the importance of unity within dioceses and the connection to the Holy Father in Rome, reinforcing the Church's structure and mission.

The Church's Universal Call

Transitioning to the day’s focus, Fr. Schmitz addresses the Church's universal call to all humanity. He states:

“All human beings are called to this Catholic unity in the people of God.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (15:12)

He categorizes non-Catholic individuals into three groups:

1. Catholic Faithful
2. Non-Catholic Christians
3. Followers of Other Religions (e.g., Judaism, Islam)

This classification sets the stage for a deeper exploration of each group's relationship with the Church.

Relationship with the Jewish People

Fr. Schmitz begins by examining the unique relationship between the Catholic Church and Judaism. He highlights the shared heritage and the foundational role of the Jewish faith in Christianity:

“The Jewish faith, unlike other non-Christian religions, is already a response to God's revelation in the Old Covenant.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (22:45)

He references St. Paul’s letter to the Romans to illustrate the profound connection:

“To the Jews belong the sonship, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (24:10)

Despite recognizing the deep truths within Judaism, Fr. Schmitz notes the divergence in the acceptance of Jesus as the Messiah, marking the critical difference in belief.

Relationship with Muslims

Next, Fr. Schmitz explores the Church’s relationship with Islam. He acknowledges the commonalities and differences:

“Among whom are Muslims, they acknowledge their Creator and profess to hold the faith of Abraham.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (29:05)

He appreciates the monotheistic foundation of Islam while contrasting it with Christian beliefs:

“Muslims believe in one God, but they do not believe in the Trinity or in Jesus Christ as the Son of God.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (30:20)

This acknowledgment of shared worship of one merciful God forms the basis for respectful dialogue and mutual understanding.

Relationship with Other Non-Christian Religions

Fr. Schmitz broadens the discussion to other non-Christian religions, emphasizing the presence of truth and goodness:

“The Church recognizes in other religions that search among shadows and images for the God who is unknown yet near.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (34:00)

He references Nostra Aetate, highlighting the unity of all nations stemming from a common origin and destiny:

“All nations form but one community because all stem from the one stock which God created to people the entire earth.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (35:15)

Despite acknowledging the truths in various religions, he also points out the inherent errors and limitations that obscure the full image of God.

“Outside the Church, There Is No Salvation”

One of the pivotal points of the episode is unpacking the statement, “Outside the Church, there is no salvation.” Fr. Schmitz clarifies its meaning with theological depth:

“Outside the Church, there is no salvation” means that all salvation comes from Christ, through the Church as His body.
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (43:50)

He references Lumen Gentium from the Second Vatican Council to provide doctrinal backing:

“The Council teaches that the Church, a pilgrim now on earth, is necessary for salvation.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (44:10)

Fr. Schmitz emphasizes that this statement does not imply exclusion for those unaware of the Gospel through no fault of their own:

“This affirmation is not aimed at those who, through no fault of their own, do not know Christ and His Church... may achieve eternal salvation.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (47:25)

Salvation for Non-Catholics

Fr. Schmitz explores the nuanced understanding of salvation beyond the visible boundaries of the Church. He reassures that sincere seekers of God, moved by grace, can attain salvation:

“Those who... seek God with a sincere heart and... try to do his will as they know it may achieve eternal salvation.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (49:40)

This inclusivity underscores the Church’s commitment to universal salvation while maintaining the necessity of Christ and the Church as essential for salvation.

The Obligation to Evangelize

Concluding the episode, Fr. Schmitz affirms the Church's enduring mission to evangelize:

“The Church still has the obligation and also the sacred right to evangelize all men.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (52:15)

He reinforces that even though salvation is possible outside the Church, the Church is entrusted with spreading the Gospel to every corner of the world, honoring God's plan for humanity.

Conclusion and Reflections

Fr. Schmitz wraps up the episode by reflecting on the beauty and complexity of the Church's teaching. He encourages listeners to embrace these truths with faith and prayer, recognizing the Church as the vessel of God’s salvific grace. His heartfelt prayer emphasizes unity, understanding, and love for all, highlighting the communal aspect of faith.

“What is the Church doing in this section?... she honors the Lord.”
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (58:50)

Fr. Schmitz’s passionate delivery and thorough exploration provide listeners with a deeper appreciation of the Catholic Church's role in the broader spiritual landscape, fostering a spirit of openness and commitment to the faith.

Key Takeaways

• Universality of the Church: The Catholic Church is universal, both in its capacity to offer salvation and its mission to reach all humanity.
• Respectful Engagement: The Church recognizes and respects the truths present in other religions, fostering mutual understanding while upholding its doctrines.
• Salvation Beyond Visible Boundaries: While the Church is necessary for salvation, individuals who seek God sincerely may attain eternal life even outside the explicit boundaries of the Church.
• Evangelization as a Core Mission: The obligation to spread the Gospel remains paramount, ensuring that the message of Christ reaches every individual.

Notable Quotes

1. “Outside the Church, there is no salvation.”
   — Fr. Mike Schmitz (43:50)

2. “Those who... seek God with a sincere heart and... try to do his will as they know it may achieve eternal salvation.”
   — Fr. Mike Schmitz (49:40)

3. “The Church still has the obligation and also the sacred right to evangelize all men.”
   — Fr. Mike Schmitz (52:15)

Final Thoughts

Day 118 of The Catechism in a Year offers a profound exploration of the Catholic Church’s relationship with non-Christian religions and the theological implications of salvation. Fr. Mike Schmitz provides clarity on complex doctrines, encouraging listeners to embrace the Church’s mission with both heart and mind. This episode serves as a valuable resource for understanding the depth and breadth of the Catholic faith in its interaction with the wider world.