Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) - Day 25: Summary of Faith (2025)

Host: Ascension
Episode Title: Day 25: Summary of Faith (2025)
Release Date: January 25, 2025
Duration: 15-20 minutes

Introduction

In Day 25 of The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into a comprehensive summary of the concept of faith as presented in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. This episode, titled "Summary of Faith," serves as a pivotal Nugget Day, encapsulating key themes and insights gleaned from paragraphs 176 to 184 of the Catechism.

Episode Overview

Fr. Mike begins by highlighting the significance of Nugget Day, a day dedicated to summarizing and reinforcing the teachings covered in the preceding days. Using the Ascension edition of the Catechism, which employs the Foundations of Faith approach, he emphasizes that the reading plan is accessible with any recent version of the Catechism. He encourages listeners to engage fully with the material by following along with the reading plan available at ascensionpress.com/ciy.

Key Topics Discussed

1. The Essence of Faith

Fr. Mike defines faith as a "personal adherence of the whole man to God who reveals himself" (00:00). He explains that faith isn't merely an intellectual assent but involves a holistic commitment of both intellect and will to God's self-revelation through His deeds and words.

2. Personal and Communal Nature of Faith

Faith is presented as both a deeply personal experience and an ecclesial (communal) act. Fr. Mike emphasizes that while faith begins individually, it inherently connects us to the broader community of believers. This duality ensures that faith isn't practiced in isolation but within the loving embrace of the Church.

3. Exclusive Belief in the Holy Trinity

One of the core Nuggets discussed is the imperative to "believe in no one but God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit" (00:00). Fr. Mike contrasts this with the belief in human beings, clarifying that our trust in God surpasses any trust we might place in people, regardless of their goodness or intentions. God, being truth itself, is the only one we can fully trust.

4. Faith as a Supernatural Gift and Human Act

Faith is described as both a supernatural gift from God and a conscious, free human act that aligns with our inherent dignity (00:00). The Holy Spirit aids believers, facilitating a deeper understanding and commitment to faith.

5. The Role of the Church in Faith

Fr. Mike underscores the Church's pivotal role in nurturing and sustaining faith. Citing St. Cyprian, he states, "No one can have God as Father who does not have the Church" (00:00). The Church acts as the "mother of all believers," providing the foundation upon which individual faith is built and flourished.

6. Faith and Doctrine

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the relationship between faith and the teachings of the Church. Fr. Mike shares an anecdote about a man struggling to fully believe every aspect of Catholic doctrine, highlighting that true faith isn't about meticulously weighing each belief but trusting in the one who imparts these teachings—God Himself.

7. Trust and Personal Commitment

Fr. Mike differentiates between emotional trust and a deeper, heart-centered faith. He advocates for a "heart faith" where one's trust in God isn't contingent upon selective beliefs but is an unwavering commitment to the Master Himself.

8. The Journey of Faith

Acknowledging that doubts and questions are natural, Fr. Mike encourages listeners to embrace their faith journey collectively. He emphasizes the importance of mutual support within the community as believers navigate the complexities of faith.

Notable Quotes

• Faith as Personal Adherence:
  "Faith is a personal adherence of the whole man to God who reveals Himself."
  (00:00)

• Exclusive Belief in the Holy Trinity:
  "We must believe in no one but God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit."
  (00:00)

• Church as Mother of Believers:
  "No one can have God as Father who does not have the Church."
  (00:00)

• Faith as a Foretaste of Eternal Knowledge:
  "Faith is a foretaste of the knowledge that will make us blessed in the life to come."
  (00:00)

Prayer

The episode includes a heartfelt prayer seeking divine assistance to deepen faith:

"Father in heaven, we know that you have revealed yourself to us so that we can entrust our entire selves back to you. We ask that you please give us hearts and minds that truly trust you, and a will that chooses to say yes to you. Send us your grace, the gift of faith, and the courage to exercise the virtue of faith. We make this prayer in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen."
(00:00)

Conclusion

Fr. Mike wraps up the episode by reaffirming the collective journey of faith that listeners are undertaking. He acknowledges the inevitability of challenges and uncertainties but reaffirms the strength found in communal support and unwavering trust in God. Encouraging continuous prayer and commitment, he invites listeners to further explore the depths of the Creed in the upcoming days, emphasizing that faith is not just about acquiring knowledge but actively saying yes to God's revelations.

Final Thoughts

Day 25 of The Catechism in a Year serves as a profound reflection on the nature of faith within the Catholic tradition. Fr. Mike Schmitz effectively bridges theological concepts with personal application, making the teachings accessible and relevant. By emphasizing both the personal and communal aspects of faith, he provides listeners with a holistic understanding of their spiritual journey.

Listeners are encouraged to engage deeply with the Catechism, participate in the reading plan, and embrace the supportive community fostered by Ascension. As the podcast progresses, it promises to unravel the intricate tapestry of Catholic doctrine, guiding believers toward a more profound and sincere relationship with God.

Content Warning: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children. Parental discretion is advised.