Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Day 47: The Angels
Introduction
In Day 47 of Ascension's The Catechism in a Year podcast, Father Mike Schmitz delves into the fascinating world of angels as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. This episode, released on February 16, 2025, continues the journey through the Catechism, focusing on paragraphs 331 to 336, and explores the profound role angels play both in the history of salvation and in the life of the Church today.
Overview of Day 47: The Angels
Fr. Mike begins by acknowledging the listeners' commitment, highlighting the ongoing journey through the Catechism and the deepening understanding of Catholic beliefs:
"We're just chipping away, which is awesome... it keeps getting richer and richer, sometimes more complicated at the same time. Really, really beautiful." (00:00)
He emphasizes the significance of angels, describing them as servants and messengers of God who are fully surrendered to Him. The episode aims to illuminate how Christ is at the center of the angelic realm and how angels actively participate in God’s saving plan.
Christ as the Center of the Angelic World
A central theme of the episode is the supremacy of Christ in the angelic hierarchy. Fr. Mike explains:
"Christ is the center of the angelic world... they belong to him because they were created through him and for Him." (Transcript)
He references biblical and theological sources, including St. Augustine and St. Paul, to underscore that angels were created by and for Christ, serving as His messengers in the divine plan of redemption.
Angels in the History of Salvation
Fr. Mike provides a chronological overview of angels' involvement in key biblical events:
- Guarding Eden: Angels were placed at the Garden of Eden to prevent humanity from re-entering and living eternally in sin.
- Protecting Lot and Hagar: Angels intervened to protect Lot and save Hagar and her child.
- Announcing Births: The angel Gabriel announced the births of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ.
He elaborates on how angels have been integral from creation through the incarnation and ascension of Jesus:
"From the Incarnation to the Ascension, the life of the Word incarnate is surrounded by the adoration and service of angels." (Transcript)
The Role of Angels in the Life of the Church
Transitioning to the present, Fr. Mike discusses the continued presence and assistance of angels in the life of the Church:
- Liturgy and Worship: The Church joins with angels in adoration during Mass, particularly evident in prayers like the "Gloria" and the "Sanctus," which echo the eternal praise of angels.
- Intercession: Angels have intercessory power, lifting prayers to God and aiding believers in their spiritual journey.
- Protection and Guidance: Angels act as protectors and shepherds, guiding individuals towards life in God.
He highlights the mutual relationship between humans and angels, where believers are encouraged to become more aware of the unseen world and the angelic presence:
"Through the intercession of these angels, God, please protect me... God, please let my prayers rise up to you so you may be glorified." (Transcript)
Insights and Reflections
Fr. Mike reflects on the profound connection between humans and angels, emphasizing that both are created by God and serve His purposes. He draws parallels between human beings and angels, noting that while humans are made in God’s image with bodies and souls, angels are pure spirits dedicated entirely to God.
He encourages listeners to embrace their identity as beloved children of God, just as angels are His devoted servants:
"We are his creatures, we are his beloved, we are his children... all of the angels who are faithful to the Lord are completely, completely surrendered to Him." (Transcript)
Notable Quotes
-
On Commitment:
"It is really phenomenal... that you're still showing up, you're still pressing play, is a really, really big deal." (00:00) -
On Angels' Nature and Role:
"They are fully surrendered to the Lord. They belong completely to Him." (Transcript) -
On Liturgical Praise:
"At every Catholic Mass... we try to attempt to unite our prayers to the prayer that is going on forever in heaven." (Transcript) -
On Intercessory Power:
"Angels have this double mediation where they bring us to the tenderness of God... but also on the other hand, they make us go up to God in prayer and intercede for us." (Transcript)
Conclusion
Day 47 of The Catechism in a Year podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of angels, their creation, their role in salvation history, and their ongoing presence in the life of the Church. Fr. Mike Schmitz effectively bridges theological concepts with practical applications, inviting listeners to deepen their understanding and awareness of the angelic realm. The episode not only educates but also inspires believers to recognize and embrace the divine assistance offered through angels.
Fr. Mike closes with anticipation for the next episode, which will shift focus to the visible world and the beauty of creation, continuing the enriching journey through the Catechism:
"Tomorrow, we're going to be talking more and more about the visible world... more on the visible world tomorrow." (Transcript)
Listeners are encouraged to stay engaged, participate in the reading plan, and remain open to the unfolding mysteries of faith.