Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) - Day 357: God, “Our” Father

Introduction

In Episode Day 357 titled "God, 'Our' Father," released on December 22, 2024, Fr. Mike Schmitz continues Ascension’s comprehensive journey through the Catechism of the Catholic Church. This episode delves into paragraphs 2786 to 2793, exploring the profound meaning behind the phrase "Our Father" in the Lord's Prayer. Utilizing the Foundations of Faith approach, Fr. Mike provides insightful explanations that bridge Sacred Scripture and Catholic Tradition, aiming to deepen listeners' understanding of their faith.

Overview of Content

Fr. Mike begins by setting the stage for today's discussion, referencing the previous day's focus on "Father, Abba" and its implications for our relationship with God. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing "Our" as a collective term that signifies a communal relationship with God, rather than individual ownership. The episode meticulously examines the selected paragraphs from the Catechism, unpacking their theological and practical significance for believers.

Key Themes and Discussions

1. Understanding "Our Father"

   Fr. Mike highlights the significance of the word "Our" in the Lord's Prayer. He explains that "Our Father" signifies a new relationship with God, transcending individual possession. As he states at [07:45], "When we say 'Our Father,' we recognize that all His promises of love announced by the prophets are fulfilled in the new and eternal covenant in His Christ."

2. Communal Relationship with God

   The episode underscores that "Our Father" reflects a communal bond among believers. Fr. Mike elaborates that this collective term implies that believers belong not only to God but are also interconnected with one another. At [15:30], he muses, "We belong to God, and He belongs to us. But more importantly, we belong to each other as members of His family."

3. The Holy Trinity in Prayer

   Fr. Mike explains how praying to "Our Father" engages the Trinity without dividing it. Referencing paragraph 2789, he states at [21:10], "When we pray to our Father, we personally address the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by doing so, we do not divide the Godhead." He clarifies that adoration is simultaneously directed to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, maintaining the unity of the Trinity.

4. Overcoming Individualism Through Prayer

   A significant portion of the discussion revolves around how the Lord's Prayer fosters a communal spirit, moving beyond individualism. At [29:50], Fr. Mike reflects, "If we pray the Our Father sincerely, we leave individualism behind because the love that we receive frees us from it." This transformation encourages believers to embrace unity and collective responsibility.

5. Inclusivity and Universal Love

   The episode emphasizes that "Our Father" is an inclusive prayer that calls for the unity of all believers. Fr. Mike quotes paragraph 2792 at [35:20], saying, "When we pray 'Our Father,' we are bringing before Him all those for whom He gave His beloved Son." This inclusivity extends beyond individual believers to encompass all of humanity, reflecting God's boundless love.

Notable Quotes

• Understanding Communal Ownership:
  "Our Father refers to God... it does not express possession, but an entirely new relationship with God." ([05:30])

• On the Holy Trinity:
  "When we pray to Our Father, we adore and glorify Him together with the Son and the Holy Spirit." ([15:45])

• Overcoming Individualism:
  "If we pray the Our Father sincerely, we leave individualism behind because the love that we receive frees us from it." ([29:50])

• Inclusivity in Prayer:
  "Praying to Our Father opens to us the dimensions of His love revealed in Christ, praying with and for all who do not yet know Him." ([34:10])

Insights and Conclusions

Fr. Mike Schmitz illuminates how the phrase "Our Father" encapsulates a rich tapestry of theological truths and practical applications for daily Christian life. By shifting from "My" to "Our," believers are invited into a communal relationship that mirrors the very nature of the Trinity. This collective approach fosters unity, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to God's will.

He concludes by urging listeners to internalize the comprehensive love that "Our Father" represents. This prayer is not merely recited but lived out through actions that reflect God's inclusive and boundless love. Fr. Mike emphasizes that praying "Our Father" should inspire believers to seek the unity of the Church and to extend love and compassion to all creation.

Reflection

This episode serves as a profound reminder of the communal dimensions of prayer and faith. Fr. Mike Schmitz effectively bridges theological concepts with everyday spirituality, encouraging listeners to deepen their relationship with God and with each other. By understanding "Our Father" as a collective expression of faith, believers are inspired to embody the unity and love that are central to the Catholic tradition.

Closing Prayer

Fr. Mike concludes the episode with a heartfelt prayer, reinforcing the themes discussed:

"God, make my heart like Yours. Excluding no one, because Your love excludes no one." ([47:30])

He invites listeners to embody this inclusive love in their daily lives, fostering a community that reflects the Holy Trinity's unity and boundless grace.

Final Thoughts

Day 357 of "The Catechism in a Year" offers a deep and enriching exploration of the Lord's Prayer, specifically focusing on the profound implications of addressing God as "Our Father." Through thoughtful exposition and reflective prayer, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides listeners into a deeper understanding of their faith, emphasizing the importance of communal relationships and universal love in the Christian journey.