The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) - Episode Summary: Day 79

Release Date: March 20, 2025

Introduction

In Day 79 of Ascension’s The Catechism in a Year, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves deep into paragraphs 554 to 560 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. This episode focuses on Jesus’ Transfiguration and His Messianic Acts, exploring how these pivotal events serve as foretaste of the Kingdom of God.

Recap of Previous Episode: The Keys of the Kingdom

Fr. Mike begins by revisiting yesterday’s discussion on the Keys of the Kingdom, where Jesus demonstrated His authority by handing the keys to Simon Peter following Peter’s confession of faith (00:05). He emphasizes the ongoing journey toward understanding the structure of the Church and the fulfillment of Jesus’ Messianic role.

Main Topic: The Transfiguration as a Foretaste of the Kingdom

Understanding the Transfiguration

At the heart of today’s discussion is the Transfiguration of Jesus—a moment where His divine glory is unveiled on the mountain (00:05). Fr. Mike explains that this event is not just a standalone miracle but a foretaste of the Kingdom of God. He articulates:

"The glory that we will behold him with for eternity... is the glory that he always has. It's glory that's revealed." (04:45)

Jesus’ Dual Revelation: Glory and Suffering

Fr. Mike highlights the dual nature of the Transfiguration. While Jesus' divine glory is displayed, it simultaneously foreshadows His impending suffering and death, illustrating:

"Jesus reveals that he has to go by way of the cross. It's this combination that is... powerful." (12:30)

This revelation underscores that God's plan encompasses both glory and suffering, inviting believers to participate in this dual journey through love and sacrifice.

Theological Insights and Scriptural References

Catechism’s Perspective (Paragraphs 554-560)

Fr. Mike references key passages from the Catechism, explaining that:

• Paragraph 554 details Peter’s confession and Jesus’ subsequent prediction of His Passion.
• Paragraph 555 describes the Transfiguration and its significance as a prelude to Jesus’ resurrection and the believers' own resurrection.

He cites St. Thomas Aquinas:

"The whole Trinity appeared. The Father in the voice, the Son in the man, the Spirit in the shining cloud." (25:10)

And St. Augustine:

"For now, Jesus says, go down to toil on earth... you refuse to suffer." (30:20)

These insights illuminate the interconnectedness of Jesus' life events and the profound theological implications they hold for believers.

Mysteries of Christ’s Life

Fr. Mike outlines the mysteries of Christ’s life, emphasizing that each event reveals aspects of Jesus' identity and mission:

• Transfiguration: Reveals divine glory and the path to salvation through suffering.
• Entry into Jerusalem: Demonstrates victory through humility, not force.

He quotes the Catechism:

"Jesus conquers the daughter of Zion... neither by ruse nor by violence, but by the humility that bears witness to the truth." (55:59)

Application to Believers’ Lives

Fr. Mike draws parallels between Jesus' experiences and the lives of believers:

• Participation in Suffering: Just as Jesus willingly faced suffering, believers are called to endure hardships with humility and faith.
• Emulating Humility: The way Jesus entered Jerusalem serves as a model for believers to achieve victory not through aggression but through truth and humility.

He encourages listeners to embrace these virtues, stating:

"Help me to neither be afraid of agony nor to be embarrassed by shame, but to cling to you." (45:50)

Conclusion and Prayer

Fr. Mike concludes the episode with a heartfelt prayer, asking God to reveal His will and strength to walk alongside believers in both glory and suffering. He reinforces the transformative journey of faith, from transfiguration to resurrection.

Prayer Highlights:

• Acknowledgment of God’s Dual Nature: Glorious yet present in suffering.
• Request for Divine Presence: Comfort in weakness and shame.
• Commitment to Humility and Truth: Bearing witness through humble actions.

Looking Ahead

As the episode wraps up, Fr. Mike previews the upcoming focus on Jesus’ Passion, Death, and Resurrection, promising a deeper exploration of these foundational mysteries of faith.

Notable Quotes:

• "Jesus reveals that he has to go by way of the cross. It's this combination that is... powerful." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (12:30)
• "The whole Trinity appeared. The Father in the voice, the Son in the man, the Spirit in the shining cloud." — St. Thomas Aquinas via Catechism (25:10)
• "Help me to neither be afraid of agony nor to be embarrassed by shame, but to cling to you." — Fr. Mike Schmitz during prayer (45:50)

This comprehensive exploration in Day 79 offers listeners a profound understanding of how the Transfiguration not only unveiled Jesus' divine nature but also set the stage for His mission of redemption through humility and sacrifice. Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully ties theological concepts to everyday faith, encouraging believers to embody the virtues exemplified by Christ.