Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Episode: Day 365: So Be It (2024) Release Date: December 30, 2024

Introduction and Gratitude

In the final installment of Ascension’s "The Catechism in a Year" podcast series, hosted by Fr. Mike Schmitz, listeners are commemorated for journeying through the entire Catechism of the Catholic Church over 365 days. Fr. Schmitz opens the episode with heartfelt thanks to the faithful who committed to this transformative experience. At [01:03], he reflects:

“Did you ever think that you would read through the entire Catechism? I can't imagine so thank you so much.”

He acknowledges the dedication of both the listeners and the production team, emphasizing the collaborative effort that made the comprehensive study possible.

Overview of Episode Content: Paragraphs 2857-2865

Fr. Schmitz delves into the concluding reading of the Catechism, specifically paragraphs 2857 to 2865, which encompass a detailed exposition of the Our Father (Lord's Prayer). He meticulously breaks down the petitions, elucidating their profound meanings and implications for believers.

1. First Three Petitions: Glorifying the Father’s Name, Kingdom, and Will

   • Sanctification of God's Name: Emphasizing the desire for God's name to be revered universally.
   • Coming of God's Kingdom: Pray for the establishment of God's reign both in heaven and in believers' lives.
   • Fulfillment of God's Will: Aligning human will with divine purpose to realize salvation.

   “By saying ‘hallowed be Thy name,’ we enter into God's plan the sanctification of His Name...” ([10:45])

2. Last Four Petitions: Presenting Our Needs and Seeking Protection

   • Daily Bread: Addresses both physical sustenance and spiritual nourishment through the Eucharist.
   • Forgiveness of Trespasses: Highlights the reciprocal nature of forgiveness.
   • Avoidance of Temptation: Requests divine assistance to steer clear of sin.
   • Deliverance from Evil: Seeks protection from the pervasive influence of Satan.

   “When we say ‘give us,’ we express in communion with our brethren our filial trust in our Heavenly Father.” ([15:20])

Fr. Schmitz underscores the interconnectedness of these petitions, portraying them as a holistic plea for both spiritual growth and daily sustenance.

Key Reflections on the Catechism and Its Pillars

Transitioning from the specific content of the Lord's Prayer, Fr. Schmitz offers a profound reflection on the overarching purpose of the Catechism. He delineates the Catechism’s four pillars and their intended impact on a believer's life:

1. Creed (What We Believe)

   • Shapes one's perception of God, salvation, faith, revelation, and human relationships.
   • Encourages believers to see the world through the lens of Catholic doctrine.

2. Worship (How We Worship)

   • Influences the manner in which believers approach God, participate in sacraments, and engage in communal worship.
   • Emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in facilitating a genuine relationship with God.

3. Ethical Living (How We Live)

   • Challenges and convicts, urging believers to align their actions with Catholic moral teachings.
   • Addresses personal integrity, relationships, societal interactions, and moral decisions.

4. Prayer (How We Pray)

   • Central to the Catechism’s transformative mission.
   • Stresses that without prayer, the other pillars remain unfulfilled, hindering true spiritual transformation.

   “This last pillar, this final pillar on prayer, we can't do anything without prayer.” ([30:10])

Fr. Schmitz passionately asserts that the Catechism is not merely an informational document but a catalyst for transformation and conversion of the heart. He highlights that each pillar is designed to effect real change in how believers perceive, worship, live, and communicate with God.

Emphasis on Transformation and Prayer

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the role of prayer in the believer’s life. Fr. Schmitz articulates:

“Read about prayer, listen about prayer, learn about prayer, is wonderful, amazing.” ([45:30])

However, he warns against complacency, emphasizing that genuine engagement with prayer must translate into becoming a life of prayer itself. He challenges listeners to internalize and embody their prayers, thereby fully actualizing the Catechism’s teachings.

Fr. Schmitz further explores the intimate relationship between God and individuals, underscoring that:

“God declares that you are worth his very life, death, resurrection and ascension.” ([55:05])

He reflects on the paradox of God's grandeur juxtaposed with His profound personal investment in each individual’s life. This revelation serves as a cornerstone for understanding the importance of each Catechism pillar, especially prayer.

Conclusion and Final Blessings

As the podcast draws to a close, Fr. Schmitz reiterates his gratitude to both the contributors of the Catechism and the listeners. He offers a heartfelt prayer, committing to continue praying for his audience beyond the official conclusion of the podcast:

“I am going to continue praying for you on day 366 and day 367 until I can't anymore. I am praying for you. Please pray for me.” ([60:00])

He emphasizes the mutual support inherent in the faith community, encouraging listeners to uphold one another in prayer. Fr. Schmitz affirms the enduring impact of the Catechism study:

“You're here now. When we started this, we were saying the thing that we've repeated so many times... This is about conversion of heart.” ([50:25])

Notable Quotes:

• Gratitude for Completion:
  “Did you ever think that you would read through the entire Catechism? I can't imagine so thank you so much.” ([01:03])

• Transformation Over Information:
  “This is about transformation. This is not just about communication of data or wanting to know more things. It's about conversion of heart.” ([25:50])

• Personal Value in God’s Eyes:
  “Why in the world would the God of the universe ever want my attention?... The reason is because you matter to Him.” ([55:45])

• Final Affirmation:
  “God declares that you are worth his very life, death, resurrection and ascension. So be it.” ([59:30])

Final Thoughts

Episode Day 365 of "The Catechism in a Year" serves as a powerful culmination of a year-long spiritual journey. Fr. Mike Schmitz not only revisits essential teachings of the Catechism but also personalizes their significance, urging believers to internalize and live out their faith authentically. Through heartfelt reflections and profound insights, the episode reinforces the Catechism’s role in shaping a transformative Christian life rooted in faith, worship, ethical living, and prayer.

Listeners are left with a deepened appreciation for the Catechism’s comprehensive guidance and a renewed commitment to embodying its teachings in their daily lives. Fr. Schmitz’s closing prayers and affirmations encapsulate the essence of the podcast’s mission: fostering a profound and enduring relationship with God.