Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Episode: Day 162: Where the Liturgy Is Celebrated (2025)
Release Date: June 11, 2025
Introduction
In Day 162 of Ascension's The Catechism in a Year podcast, Father Mike Schmitz delves into the essential question: "Where is the liturgy celebrated?" Drawing from paragraphs 1179 to 1186 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Fr. Mike explores the sacred interplay between time, space, and worship within the Catholic faith. This episode is part of a comprehensive 365-episode journey designed to guide listeners through the entirety of the Catechism, offering explanations, insights, and spiritual encouragement.
Worship Beyond Boundaries
Fr. Mike begins by addressing the fundamental understanding that true worship of God transcends specific locations. Referencing John 4:, he recalls Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well:
"Where true worship of God will be worshiped in spirit and in truth." (00:05)
This signifies that worship is not confined to a single geographic location but is a spiritual act accessible to believers everywhere. The entire earth is deemed sacred, entrusted to God's children, emphasizing that the essence of worship resides in the believers' hearts rather than in the edifices where they gather.
The Living Church: Assembly and Structure
Fr. Mike elaborates on the concept of the Church as a living entity composed of "living stones" (00:05) who come together to form a "spiritual house." This assembly is dynamic, allowing the Church to exist wherever the faithful congregate, highlighting the importance of unity and collective worship.
However, he acknowledges the historical and ongoing challenges posed by religious persecution. Paragraph 1180 underscores that while Christians strive to build churches, there have been, and continue to be, moments where constructing such dedicated spaces is hindered. Despite these challenges, the sacrificial love of Christ provides solace and strength, reaffirming the Church's resilience and enduring presence through God's grace.
Essential Elements of a Church Building
The episode transitions into a detailed exploration of what constitutes a proper church building, as outlined in the Catechism:
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The Altar:
The central fixture symbolizing Christ's sacrifice, serving as the focal point for the Eucharist. Fr. Mike emphasizes its dual symbolism as both the sacrificial altar and the Lord's Table, inviting the faithful to partake in the sacred mystery. -
The Tabernacle:
Placed in a place of honor, the tabernacle houses the Blessed Sacrament, fostering adoration and reverence among believers (05:30). -
Sacred Chrism and Holy Oils:
These are securely stored in the sanctuary, signifying the Seal of the Holy Spirit and used in sacraments like Baptism and Confirmation (07:45). -
Seating for Clergy:
The chairs for bishops and priests symbolize their role in leading and directing worship, emphasizing their pastoral responsibilities (10:15). -
The Lectern or Ambo:
A designated area for proclaiming the Word of God, ensuring that the teachings and scriptures are clearly heard and understood by the congregation (12:00). -
Baptistry and Confessional Spaces:
Essential for the administration of Baptism and the sacrament of Reconciliation, these areas provide spaces for initiation and repentance (15:20). -
Spaces for Silent Prayer and Recollection:
Dedicated areas within the church facilitate personal reflection and internalization of the Eucharistic prayer, fostering a deeper spiritual connection (18:40).
Worship and Community Dynamics
Fr. Mike discusses the delicate balance between communal worship and private prayer spaces within the church. He stresses the importance of separating areas designated for worship from social halls to maintain the sanctity and dignity of the sacred spaces. This segregation ensures that while the church serves as a hub for community gatherings, it also upholds areas conducive to personal prayer and meditation.
The Church as the Father's House
Concluding his discussion, Fr. Mike reflects on the eschatological significance of the church building. Crossing the threshold into a church symbolizes transitioning from a world marred by sin to one of renewed life and divine presence. The church stands as a symbol of the Father's house, embodying hope and the promise of eternal communion with God.
Conclusion
Day 162 offers a profound exploration of the spatial dimensions of Catholic worship, highlighting how the Church, both as a universal body and local community, serves as a sanctuary for believers. Fr. Mike Schmitz beautifully intertwines doctrinal insights with practical reflections, enriching listeners' understanding of the liturgical spaces that shape their spiritual lives.
As the episode wraps up, Fr. Mike hints at the upcoming "Liturgical Diversity and Unity in the Mystery" segment, promising further enriching discussions for listeners to continue their journey through the Catechism.
"Where the bishop is, there is the church. Where the people of God are gathered, there is the church." (25:10)
This episode not only educates but also inspires believers to appreciate the sacredness of their worship spaces and the communal bonds that sustain their faith journey.
Notable Quotes:
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"Where true worship of God will be worshiped in spirit and in truth."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (00:05) -
"We're the living stones gathered to be built into a spiritual house."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (22:15) -
"The tabernacle should probably be incredibly visible. Tabernacle should probably be incredibly preeminent."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (07:45) -
"The chair of the bishop or of the priest should express his office of presiding over the assembly and of directing prayer."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (10:15) -
"In churches that have the ability to do this, there should be a distinction between this place of worship and the social hall."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (18:40)
Closing Prayer:
Fr. Mike concludes the episode with a heartfelt prayer, asking for God's blessing upon the local parish and the sanctification of both time and space in the lives of the listeners.
"Father in heaven, we do give you praise in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ... Renew us and sanctify each moment of our days, and sanctify each place that our feet tread."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz (04:30)
Stay Tuned:
Don't miss the next episode, where Fr. Mike will explore "Liturgical Diversity and Unity in the Mystery," continuing the enlightening journey through the Catechism of the Catholic Church.