The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) - Episode Summary: Day 134: The Forgiveness of Sins
Release Date: May 14, 2025
Introduction and New Resource
In the opening moments of Day 134, Fr. Mike Schmitz enthusiastically introduces Ascension’s latest offering, Foundations of Faith. This new study program is a video-based journey that takes participants to over 40 significant locations across 11 countries and four continents, bringing the Catechism of the Catholic Church to life through the voices of familiar educators like Dr. Ed Sri, Jeff Cavins, and Dr. Marcelina D'Ambrosio.
Fr. Mike emphasizes that Foundations of Faith is more than just a study—it’s a pilgrimage designed to transform one's understanding and practice of the Catholic faith. He encourages listeners to enhance their Catechism journey by visiting ascensionpress.com/CatechismStudy and subscribing to the podcast for daily updates.
Notable Quote:
"Foundations of Faith takes you on a remarkable journey through the heart of our faith. If you've been enjoying this podcast, I know that this study will further enrich your understanding of the Catechism."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [00:00]
The Forgiveness of Sins: An In-Depth Exploration
Apostles' Power to Forgive Sins
Fr. Mike delves into Article 10 of the Catechism, focusing on the forgiveness of sins. He begins by highlighting how the Apostles' Creed links faith in the Holy Spirit and the Church with the forgiveness of sins. This connection is rooted in Jesus’ gift of the Holy Spirit to the apostles, empowering them with the divine authority to forgive sins.
Notable Quote:
"When Jesus gave the Holy Spirit to the apostles, he gave them his own power, divine power to forgive sins."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [02:41]
Baptism: The First Sacrament of Forgiveness
Baptism is presented as the first and chief sacrament of forgiveness, uniting believers with Christ who died and rose for the justification of sins. Through baptism, individuals are cleansed of original sin and any personal offenses, though the effects of the fallen nature—concupiscence—remain.
Notable Quote:
"Baptism is the first and chief sacrament of forgiveness of sins because it unites us with Christ who died for our sins and rose for our justification."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [07:02]
The Necessity of the Sacrament of Penance
Despite the completeness of baptismal forgiveness, the Catechism acknowledges the persistent inclination towards sin due to concupiscence. Therefore, the sacrament of penance (reconciliation) becomes essential for ongoing forgiveness and reconciliation with God and the Church.
Notable Quote:
"The sacrament of penance is necessary for salvation for those who have fallen after baptism, just as baptism is necessary for salvation for those who have not yet been reborn."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [08:20]
The Power of the Keys and the Church's Role
Empowerment Through the Holy Spirit
Fr. Mike emphasizes that the authority to forgive sins is bestowed upon the Church through the Holy Spirit. This divine power was given to the apostles and continues through their successors, enabling the Church to act as a minister of reconciliation.
Notable Quote:
"After His resurrection, Christ sent His apostles so that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached in His name to all nations."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [08:35]
Quotes from the Church Fathers
The episode features profound insights from early Church Fathers like St. Augustine, St. Ambrose, and St. John Chrysostom, who affirm the Church’s authority to forgive sins. These quotes reinforce the inseparable link between the Church’s mission and the forgiveness granted through the sacraments.
Notable Quotes:
"If the Church has the power to forgive sins, then baptism cannot be her only means of using that power."
— St. Augustine [09:04]
"Priests have received from God a power that He has given neither to angels nor to archangels."
— St. John Chrysostom [17:10]
"Were there no forgiveness of sins in the Church, there would be no hope of life to come or eternal liberation."
— St. Augustine [17:37]
Theological Insights: Faith, Baptism, and Cooperation with Grace
The Role of Faith in Forgiveness
Faith is intricately connected to the forgiveness of sins. Belief in the Holy Spirit and the Church underpins the assurance of divine mercy and the active dispensation of forgiveness through the sacraments.
Notable Quote:
"The Apostles Creed associates faith in the forgiveness of sins not only with faith in the Holy Spirit but also with faith in the Church and in the communion of saints."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [06:13]
Human Cooperation with Divine Grace
Fr. Mike underscores the importance of authentic repentance and cooperation with God’s grace. True forgiveness is not automatic; it requires sincere contrition and a committed effort to turn away from sin and embrace God’s mercy.
Notable Quote:
"What remains to be done is our cooperation to let the saving work of Jesus Christ actually be accomplished in my life and in your life, in our lives."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [16:54]
Conclusion and Reflections
Fr. Mike concludes the episode by reiterating the boundless mercy of the Church. No offense is too grave to be forgiven, provided there is genuine repentance. He invites listeners to embrace this hope and to participate actively in the sacramental life of the Church to fully experience God’s forgiveness and grace.
Notable Quote:
"There is no offense, however serious, that the Church cannot forgive. Christ, who died for all men, desires that in His Church the gates of forgiveness should always be open to anyone who turns away from sin."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [16:08]
Closing Prayer
The episode beautifully transitions into a guided prayer, where Fr. Mike and his co-host lead listeners in seeking God’s mercy and strength to overcome discouragement and sin, reinforcing the theme of divine forgiveness and the transformative power of the sacraments.
Prayer Excerpt:
"Father in heaven, we give you praise... Send your Holy Spirit, the fire of your love to never give up, to never surrender, but always lean into your mercy."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [05:05]
This comprehensive episode of The Catechism in a Year offers a deep dive into the Catholic understanding of the forgiveness of sins, highlighting the essential role of the sacraments, the enduring authority of the Church, and the indispensable cooperation of the faithful in embracing God's mercy.