Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Day 22: Wrestling with Faith

Release Date: January 22, 2025

Introduction

In Day 22 of The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves deep into the intricate relationship between faith, understanding, and reason. Titled "Wrestling with Faith," this episode explores how faith is both a divine gift and a personal commitment, emphasizing the harmonious interplay between belief and intellectual inquiry.

Faith and Understanding

Fr. Schmitz begins by expanding on the dual nature of faith—as both a grace from God and a conscious human act. He references paragraphs 156 to 162 of the Catechism, highlighting that faith isn't merely about accepting truths that align with our reason but also about trusting in God's authority and truthfulness.

"We believe not only in the fact that God has authority, that God is truth. We're actually believing in Him because we know He is true." [05:45]

He emphasizes that faith grows not just through logical proofs but also through divine revelations, including miracles, prophecies, and the Church's historical growth. These elements serve as "motives of credibility," ensuring that faith isn't a blind leap but a reasoned trust in a truthful God.

"Faith is certain. It is more certain than all human knowledge because it is founded on the very word of God who cannot lie." [12:30]

Fr. Schmitz underscores the importance of seeking deeper understanding to bolster faith, quoting Cardinal Newman:

"10,000 difficulties do not make one doubt." [16:10]

This assertion reassures believers that grappling with doubts and questions is a natural part of faith, encouraging continuous exploration and connection with God.

Faith and Science

Addressing the often-misunderstood relationship between faith and science, Fr. Schmitz clarifies that there is no inherent conflict between the two. He cites paragraph 159, reinforcing that truth cannot contradict truth, and because both faith and science originate from the same God, they are ultimately harmonious.

"There is no discrepancy between faith and reason or faith and science. Truth cannot contradict truth." [20:05]

This perspective dispels the false dichotomy that pits religious belief against scientific inquiry, advocating for a complementary approach where both domains enrich each other.

Freedom of Faith

A pivotal theme in the episode is the freedom inherent in faith. Drawing from paragraph 160, Fr. Schmitz explains that faith must be a free choice; coercion undermines its authenticity and value.

"The act of faith is of its very nature, a free act. God calls men to serve him in spirit and in truth, but not by force." [25:40]

He reflects on Jesus' example, who invited belief without coercion, emphasizing that genuine faith stems from love and personal conviction rather than manipulation or force.

Necessity of Faith and Perseverance

Fr. Schmitz delves into the essential role of faith in attaining salvation, referencing paragraph 161. He articulates that faith is indispensable for pleasing God and achieving eternal life, aligning with the teachings of Scripture.

"Without faith, no one has ever attained justification, nor will anyone obtain eternal life." [30:15]

Moreover, he discusses the vulnerability of faith, acknowledging that it can be lost if not nurtured. Citing St. Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, he warns against rejecting conscience, which can lead to the "shipwreck of faith."

"We must nourish our faith with the word of God and persevere until the end, praying for the grace of final perseverance." [35:50]

Fr. Schmitz encourages listeners to cultivate their faith through prayer, understanding, and love, aiming for a steadfast commitment that endures life's trials.

Prayer and Final Perseverance

The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer, invoking God's help to trust, adhere, and persevere in faith throughout all circumstances—both in moments of joy and in times of hardship.

"Help us to belong to you fully, not only in this moment but in every single moment of our lives... Pray for that final gift of perseverance." [40:25]

Fr. Schmitz emphasizes the ultimate goal: to remain faithful until the end, ensuring that believers stand confidently before God, embraced by His unwavering love.

Key Takeaways

• Faith as a Gift and Commitment: Faith is both divinely bestowed and personally chosen, requiring active engagement and trust in God's truth.

• Harmony with Reason and Science: Faith and reason complement each other, with no true conflict between religious belief and scientific understanding.

• Intrinsic Freedom: Authentic faith arises from free will, mirroring Jesus' approach of inviting belief without coercion.

• Essential for Salvation: Faith is crucial for salvation, demanding perseverance and continual growth to maintain and strengthen one's relationship with God.

• Role of Prayer: Persistent prayer is vital for nurturing faith, seeking deeper understanding, and attaining the grace to persevere until life's end.

Conclusion

Day 22 of The Catechism in a Year offers a profound exploration of faith's complexities and its essential role in the believer's journey. Fr. Mike Schmitz skillfully navigates theological concepts, providing clarity and encouragement for listeners to deepen their faith, embrace intellectual inquiry, and strive for unwavering perseverance.

End of Summary