Summary of "Day 213: Bishops and the Episcopacy" from The Catechism in a Year Podcast

Podcast Title: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host: Ascension
Episode: Day 213: Bishops and the Episcopacy (2025)
Release Date: August 1, 2025
Duration: Approximately 20 minutes

Introduction

In Day 213 of The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the intricate structure of the Sacrament of Holy Orders, with a particular focus on the episcopacy—the role and responsibilities of bishops within the Catholic Church. This episode, guided by the Ascension’s Foundations of Faith approach, seeks to illuminate the divine institution of Holy Orders and the vital role bishops play in sustaining the Church’s mission.

The Sacrament of Holy Orders: An Overview

Fr. Schmitz begins by referencing paragraphs 1554-1561 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, outlining the three degrees of Holy Orders: the episcopate (bishops), the presbyterate (priests), and the diaconate (deacons). He emphasizes that while bishops and priests participate directly in Christ's priesthood, deacons serve to assist them.

"The term sacerdos in current usage denotes bishops and priests, but not deacons. Yet Catholic doctrine teaches that the degrees of priestly participation and the degree of service diaconate are all three conferred by a sacramental act called ordination, that is, by the sacrament of holy orders." (00:05)

Episcopal Ordination: Fullness of the Sacrament

Fr. Schmitz explores the concept of episcopal ordination as the fullness of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. He explains that bishops hold a special place in the Church's hierarchy, acting as transmitters of the apostolic line through an unbroken succession dating back to the apostles.

"Episcopal consecration confers together with the office of sanctifying, also the offices of teaching and ruling. In fact, by the imposition of hands and through the words of the consecration, the grace of the Holy Spirit is given and a sacred character is impressed..." (00:30)

The bishop is described as embodying the high priesthood of Jesus, serving as His representative in a "Persona agant" (in the person of the acting bishop).

Responsibilities of a Bishop

The podcast delves into the triple mission of bishops: sanctifying, teaching, and governing. Fr. Schmitz underscores the immense responsibility vested in bishops, comparing it to parental roles in terms of accountability.

"His triple mission is the office of sanctifying, teaching and governing... The bishop is responsible for every soul in his diocese." (13:45)

Fr. Schmitz highlights that bishops must actively teach and safeguard the faith, govern their dioceses with wisdom, and sanctify the faithful through the administration of the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist.

Historical and Theological Foundations

Referencing St. Ignatius of Antioch, Fr. Schmitz traces the roots of the episcopacy to the early Church, demonstrating its continuity and divine institution.

"St. Ignatius of Antioch... states, 'Let everyone revere the deacons as Jesus Christ, the Bishop, as the image of the Father, and the presbyters as the Senate of God and the assembly of the apostles...'" (09:20)

This historical perspective reinforces the enduring significance of bishops in maintaining the Church’s apostolic tradition and unity.

The Collegial Nature of the Episcopacy

Fr. Schmitz explains the collegial aspect of the episcopal office, emphasizing that bishops do not act in isolation but in communion with each other, particularly under the leadership of the Bishop of Rome (the Pope).

"The character and collegial nature of the episcopal order are evidenced... by the Church's ancient practice which calls for several bishops to participate in the consecration of a new bishop." (11:10)

This collegiality ensures unity and continuity within the universal Church.

Personal Reflections and Call to Prayer

Throughout the episode, Fr. Schmitz shares personal reflections on the significance of Holy Orders and the episcopacy. He expresses profound admiration for bishops who faithfully execute their duties and underscores the importance of praying for them.

"We have to pray for our local bishop, to pray for our Holy Father and pray for each other... Let's make a commitment today to pray for our local bishop, to pray for our Holy Father and pray for each other." (19:50)

He invites listeners to join in this prayerful support, recognizing the challenges and responsibilities that bishops face in a complex and often hostile world.

Conclusion

Day 213 of The Catechism in a Year podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of the episcopacy, highlighting the theological, historical, and practical dimensions of bishops' roles in the Catholic Church. Fr. Mike Schmitz eloquently conveys the profound responsibility entrusted to bishops and the necessity of supporting them through prayer and community.

Listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the Sacrament of Holy Orders and the indispensable role of bishops in guiding the faithful, preserving the Church’s mission, and fostering spiritual growth within their dioceses.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "The priest continues to be flawed. The priest continues to be broken in many ways, but at the same time he's given the Spirit of God in a unique way to act in Persona Christi capitis..." (05:20)

• "By virtue, therefore, of the Holy Spirit who has been given to them, bishops have been constituted true and authentic teachers of the faith and have been made pontiffs and pastors." (12:35)

• "The diaconate is intended to help and serve them." (04:10)

• "Without bishops, priests, and deacons, one cannot speak of the Church." (10:15)

This episode serves as an enlightening resource for Catholics seeking to understand the foundational structures of their faith and the pivotal role of bishops in the life of the Church.