Podcast Summary: Day 4 – Our Capacity for God

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
• Host/Author: Ascension
• Episode: Day 4: Our Capacity for God (2025)
• Release Date: January 4, 2025
• Duration: 15-20 minutes

Overview:

In the fourth episode of The Catechism in a Year podcast series, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the profound topic of humanity's inherent capacity and desire for God. Building upon the Foundations of Faith approach, this episode explores how humans are naturally oriented toward the divine, the ways in which God reveals Himself, and the essential response of faith required to deepen this relationship. Fr. Mike emphasizes that understanding our capacity for God is pivotal in comprehending our identity within God's family and our ultimate journey toward a heavenly home.

Key Themes:

1. Man's Capacity for God
2. The Desire for God
3. Ways of Coming to Know God
4. The Role of Faith in Responding to God

1. Man's Capacity for God

Fr. Mike begins by clarifying the use of the term "man" in the Catechism, emphasizing that it refers to humanity as a whole, encompassing both males and females. He explains that humans are created by God and for God, highlighting an intrinsic connection that necessitates seeking and finding fulfillment in the divine.

Notable Quote:

"Man is created by God and for God, and God never ceases to draw man to himself." [00:02:10]

2. The Desire for God

At the heart of human existence lies an unquenchable desire for God. Fr. Mike references the Second Vatican Council, which underscores that humanity's dignity is rooted in the call to communion with God. This desire manifests in various forms of religious expression throughout history, indicating that humans are inherently religious beings.

Notable Quote:

"Our heart is restless until it rests in you." [00:04:45]

He discusses how this desire drives the quest for meaning and happiness, asserting that true fulfillment can only be found in encountering God.

3. Ways of Coming to Know God

Fr. Mike outlines the Catechism's perspective on how humans can come to know God, focusing on two primary avenues:

• Through the World Around Us: Observing the natural world reveals God's existence and attributes. Fr. Mike cites arguments from movement, contingency, order, and beauty as evidence of a creator.

  Notable Quote:

  "Question the beauty of the earth. Question the beauty of the sea... All respond, 'See, we are beautiful. Their beauty is a profession.'" [00:09:30]

• Through Ourselves: Reflecting on human nature—our openness to truth and beauty, moral sense, freedom, and conscience—indicates a spiritual dimension rooted in God.

  Notable Quote:

  "You have hunger, there's such a thing as food... You crave God. There is such a thing as God." [00:12:15]

4. The Role of Faith in Responding to God

Faith is presented as humanity's fundamental response to God's revelation. Fr. Mike explains that faith is not merely belief but involves personal adherence and a heartfelt response enabled by God's grace. He emphasizes the necessity of intellectual effort, a steadfast will, an upright heart, and the supportive witness of others in cultivating faith.

Notable Quote:

"Not just to know about God, but also for that grace that God gives us to know Him." [00:17:50]

Fr. Mike challenges listeners to move beyond the abstract understanding of God's love, urging a personal and intimate acceptance of His presence and purpose in their lives.

Insights and Discussions:

• Humanity as Religious Beings: Fr. Mike reinforces the idea that being religious is an inherent aspect of being human. This is not limited to organized religion but encompasses the universal yearning for connection with the divine.

• The Interplay of Reason and Faith: By highlighting philosophical arguments for God's existence, Fr. Mike bridges the gap between intellectual inquiry and spiritual belief, demonstrating that faith and reason are complementary.

• Personal Relationship with God: The episode stresses the importance of a personal relationship with God, moving beyond generalized beliefs to a specific, heartfelt connection facilitated by grace.

• Overcoming Barriers to Faith: Fr. Mike acknowledges the various obstacles that can lead to indifference or rejection of God, such as worldly distractions, religious skepticism, and personal fears. However, he reassures listeners that God's call remains constant and accessible.

Conclusions:

Day 4 of The Catechism in a Year serves as a foundational exploration of why humans are innately inclined toward God and how this capacity shapes our identity and purpose. Fr. Mike Schmitz eloquently synthesizes theological insights with practical applications, encouraging listeners to recognize and embrace their inherent desire for God. By understanding the ways God reveals Himself and responding with genuine faith, individuals can embark on a transformative journey toward deeper communion with the divine.

Final Thoughts:

Fr. Mike concludes with a heartfelt prayer, reinforcing the episode's themes and inviting listeners to actively seek and recognize God's presence in their lives. He underscores the importance of communal support and personal dedication in nurturing one's faith journey.

Closing Quote:

"I'm praying for you. Please pray for me. My name is Father Mike. I cannot wait to see you tomorrow. God bless." [00:19:55]

This episode serves as a compelling invitation to listeners to engage deeply with the Catechism, fostering a richer understanding of Catholic faith and its relevance to personal and communal life.