Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)

Episode: Day 39: The Father Almighty
Release Date: February 8, 2025
Host: Fr. Mike Schmitz
Produced by: Ascension

Introduction

In Day 39 of The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into paragraphs 268 to 278 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, focusing on the theme "The Father Almighty." This episode explores the nature of God's omnipotence, intertwining theological insights with practical faith applications.

Key Themes and Discussions

1. Understanding God's Almightiness

Fr. Mike begins by unpacking the term "almighty," equating it with omnipotence—the belief that God is all-powerful and can do anything within the bounds of His nature.

• Omnipotence Defined: God can accomplish anything He wills, and nothing is impossible for Him. This includes the creation and governance of heaven and earth.

• Quotes Highlighted:

  • “Nothing is impossible with God who disposes his works according to his will.” (Paragraph 269)

2. The Unity of God's Attributes

Drawing from St. Thomas Aquinas, Fr. Mike emphasizes that in God, power, essence, will, intellect, wisdom, and justice are identical. This means:

• Simplicity of God: God is not composed of parts; His attributes are unified within His very existence.

• Non-Arbitrariness of Power: God's omnipotence is an essential aspect of His nature, not a random display of force.

• Quote:

  • “In God, power, essence, will, intellect, wisdom and justice are all identical.” (Paragraph 271)

3. God's Necessity and Creation

Fr. Mike explains that God is a necessary being, meaning His existence is essential and no other being is required for existence. Contrarily, all other beings are contingent, depending on God for their existence.

• God as the Ground of Being: God is the foundation upon which all existence rests.

4. The Goodness Embedded in God’s Omnipotence

God's almighty power is intrinsically linked to His goodness. This duality ensures that God's actions are always just and wise.

• Fatherly Omnipotence: God's power is expressed through His role as a loving Father who cares for His creation.

• Quote:

  • “God is the Father Almighty, whose fatherhood and power shed light on one another.” (Paragraph 270)

5. The Mystery of Evil and Suffering

One of the profound mysteries addressed is how an all-powerful and all-good God permits evil and suffering.

• Voluntary Humiliation: God's power is manifested not by overpowering evil but by entering into it through the humiliation and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ.

• Conquering Evil: Through Christ's sacrifice, God overcomes evil, showcasing that His power is perfect even in weakness.

• Quote:

  • “Christ crucified is thus the power of God and the wisdom of God.” (Paragraph 273)

6. Faith in God's Mysterious Power

Believing in God's almightiness requires faith, especially when faced with inexplicable suffering.

• Trusting God: Faith enables believers to embrace the mysterious ways of God's power, recognizing that His plans transcend human understanding.

• Role of the Virgin Mary: Fr. Mike cites Mary as the supreme model of faith, who trusted that “nothing will be impossible with God”.

• Quote:

  • “Nothing is more apt to confirm our faith and hope than holding it fixed in our minds that nothing is impossible with God.” (Paragraph 273)

7. Implications for Believers

Understanding God's omnipotence and goodness encourages believers to:

• Trust in God's Plans: Even when circumstances seem dire, trusting in God's ultimate goodness and power provides hope and resilience.

• Live with Confidence: Recognizing that God can fulfill His promises fosters a deeper commitment to faith and obedience.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• [00:05] “Nothing is impossible with God who disposes his works according to his will.” (Paragraph 269)

• [00:15] “In God, power, essence, will, intellect, wisdom and justice are all identical.” (Paragraph 271)

• [00:45] “God is the Father Almighty, whose fatherhood and power shed light on one another.” (Paragraph 270)

• [01:30] “Christ crucified is thus the power of God and the wisdom of God.” (Paragraph 273)

• [02:10] “Nothing is more apt to confirm our faith and hope than holding it fixed in our minds that nothing is impossible with God.” (Paragraph 273)

Conclusion

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz provides a profound exploration of God's almighty nature, intertwining doctrinal teachings with relatable faith applications. By understanding God's omnipotence as a reflection of His unified and non-arbitrary nature, believers are encouraged to deepen their trust and faith, especially amidst life's challenges. The discussion reinforces the belief that God's power is not just about might but about purposeful, loving action towards humanity.

Fr. Mike closes with a heartfelt prayer, inviting listeners to embrace God's mercy and power in their lives, echoing the episode's central themes of trust, faith, and the boundless capabilities of the Almighty Father.

Prayer from the Episode:

"Father Almighty, you are the Almighty Father. You're simple. You are one Lord God. You are justice and goodness itself. You are being itself. You are love itself. Every good thing flows from you. Every truth flows from you. All of our wills that can choose and can love are a gift from you. All of our intellects that can think and apprehend, they're from you. So we ask you, Lord, help us to think, help us to know, help us to love you, for you are wisdom and you are love. And we declare that you are good. In Jesus name we pray. Amen."

Reflection:

This episode serves as a vital reminder of the foundational beliefs in Catholic faith, particularly the nature of God as almighty. By understanding the depths of God's power and goodness, believers are better equipped to navigate the complexities of faith, life challenges, and the mysteries that lie beyond human comprehension.