Podcast Summary: Day 202 – How Confession Heals

Podcast Title: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host/Author: Ascension
Episode Title: Day 202: How Confession Heals
Release Date: July 21, 2025
Duration: 15-20 minutes

Introduction

In Day 202 of The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves deep into the transformative power of the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) and the doctrine of indulgences as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Using the Foundations of Faith approach, Fr. Mike unpacks paragraphs 1468 to 1473, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how confession not only forgives sins but also restores and strengthens the individual's relationship with God and the Church.

Key Topics Discussed

1. Effects of the Sacrament of Reconciliation

Fr. Mike begins by emphasizing the multifaceted impact of Confession:

• Restoration to God's Grace:
  "The whole power of the sacrament of penance consists in restoring us to God's grace and joining us with him in an intimate friendship." [00:05]

• Peace and Serenity:
  For those who approach Confession with a contrite heart, the sacrament brings about peace of conscience and strong spiritual consolation.

• Spiritual Resurrection:
  Fr. Mike describes the sacrament as a "true spiritual resurrection," restoring the dignity and blessings of being a child of God, with friendship with God being the most precious gift.

• Reconciliation with the Church:
  Confession heals not only the individual's relationship with God but also mends fraternal communion within the Church. Sin affects the entire body of Christ, and reconciliation revitalizes the Church community.

• Anticipation of Final Judgment:
  Engaging in Confession is seen as a practice of presenting oneself before God, acknowledging both His love and our failures to love Him fully. It serves as a rehearsal for the final judgment, where we choose to turn to God.

Notable Quote:
"Confession is choosing to allow the Lord to love me as I am." [XX:XX]

2. Understanding Indulgences

Addressing a topic often misunderstood, Fr. Mike clarifies the doctrine and practice of indulgences:

• Definition:
  "An indulgence is a remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven..." [Timestamp]

• Double Consequence of Sin:

  • Eternal Consequence: Separation from God (Hell), which is addressed through Confession and Baptism.
  • Temporal Consequence: Unhealthy attachments to sin, requiring purification either in life or in purgatory.

• Role of the Church:
  The Church, as the minister of redemption, dispenses indulgences through prescribed actions, supported by the treasury of the satisfaction of Christ and the saints.

• Conditions for Gaining an Indulgence:
  Fr. Mike outlines the four key components:

  1. Performing Specific Actions: Such as praying the Stations of the Cross or the Rosary.
  2. Receiving Holy Communion.
  3. Going to Confession Within a Week of the Action.
  4. Praying for the Holy Father's Intentions.

Notable Quote:
"Indulgences are remedies that heal our hearts." [XX:XX]

3. Practical Application of Indulgences

Fr. Mike provides practical guidance on how listeners can obtain and apply indulgences:

• For Themselves: Engaging in the prescribed actions to remove attachments to sin.
• For the Deceased: Applying indulgences to loved ones who have passed away, aiding their purification in heaven.

Notable Quote:
"We are not alone in this day. I'm praying for you. Please pray for me." [XX:XX]

Notable Insights

• Grace and Humility:
  Fr. Mike emphasizes that the Sacrament of Reconciliation is not just about forgiveness but also about growing in humility. "The sacrament restores us and elevates us... now it's 7.5, now it's an 8." [XX:XX]

• Communion of Saints:
  The exchange of spiritual goods among the body of Christ strengthens all members, live and deceased. This interconnectedness is a profound aspect of the Church's healing power.

• Natural vs. Vengeful Consequences:
  By using the term "consequence" instead of "punishment," Fr. Mike highlights that the repercussions of sin are intrinsic to its nature, not arbitrary divine retribution.

• Authority of the Church:
  Fr. Mike underscores that indulgences are exercised through the Church's divinely granted authority, "Jesus Christ has given to Peter and to the Apostles the authority to bind and to loose." [XX:XX]

Conclusions

Fr. Mike Schmitz eloquently ties together the themes of Confession and indulgences, illustrating how these sacraments and practices are integral to spiritual growth and healing. He invites listeners to view Confession not merely as a routine ritual but as a profound opportunity to restore and deepen their relationship with God and the Church. Additionally, by understanding and embracing indulgences, believers can actively participate in the purification process, both for themselves and for the faithful departed.

The episode serves as a heartfelt reminder of God's boundless mercy and the Church's role in dispensing grace. Fr. Mike concludes with a personal touch, encouraging mutual prayer and highlighting the communal aspect of faith.

Final Quote:
"God loves you. All of Christianity can be boiled down to this question and this answer. Will you give God permission to love you as you are?" [XX:XX]

Reflection

This episode provides a rich exploration of how Confession and indulgences function within the Catholic faith to heal, restore, and strengthen believers. Fr. Mike's relatable analogies and deep theological insights make complex doctrines accessible, fostering a deeper appreciation for these sacred practices. Whether you're new to the faith or seeking to deepen your understanding, Day 202 offers valuable perspectives on living a life reconciled with God.