Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Episode Day 91: Christ Rose from the Dead
Introduction
In Day 91 of Ascension’s "The Catechism in a Year" podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the profound mystery of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Released on April 1, 2025, this episode focuses on paragraphs 638 to 644 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, exploring the historical and transcendent significance of Christ's resurrection. Fr. Mike emphasizes the Resurrection as a foundational truth of Christian faith, reinforcing its historical reality and its transformative impact on the early Christian community.
Overview of the Episode
Fr. Mike begins by acknowledging the support from listeners and donors, explaining that contributions help Ascension produce free Catholic content. He then introduces the day's reading: paragraphs 638 to 644, which discuss Christ's resurrection. The episode aims to clarify misconceptions about the Resurrection, affirm its bodily reality, and highlight its essential role in Christian belief.
Main Discussion Points
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Affirmation of the Bodily Resurrection
Fr. Mike stresses that the Resurrection is not merely a spiritual or metaphorical event but a literal, bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ. He counters interpretations that suggest Jesus only rose in the hearts of believers, underlining the Church's teaching that Jesus physically rose from the dead.
"Jesus really rose literally from the dead, bodily, from the dead, corporeally from the dead." [02:15]
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Historical Evidence of the Resurrection
The discussion covers the various testimonies supporting the Resurrection, including the empty tomb, appearances to Mary Magdalene, the apostles, and over 500 individuals as mentioned by St. Paul. These accounts collectively affirm the historical reality of Jesus’ rise from the dead.
"The empty tomb was still an essential sign... it was the first step toward recognizing the very fact of the resurrection." [14:30]
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Transformation of the Apostles
Fr. Mike explores how the Resurrection transformed the disciples from a demoralized and fearful group into bold witnesses of Christ’s victory over death. Their willingness to sacrifice their lives underscores the truth of their experience with the risen Jesus.
"Their faith in the resurrection was born under the action of Divine grace from their direct experience of the reality of the risen Jesus." [36:50]
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Challenges to Belief
Addressing doubts, Fr. Mike acknowledges that even the disciples experienced moments of disbelief and confusion upon encountering the risen Christ. However, these challenges ultimately strengthened their faith and commitment to spreading the Gospel.
"Even during Christ's last appearance in Galilee... some doubted." [32:10]
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Implications for Modern Faith
The episode concludes by reaffirming the Resurrection's central role in contemporary Catholic faith. Fr. Mike encourages listeners to embrace the truth of the Resurrection, fostering a deeper connection with God and understanding of their Catholic identity.
"The resurrection is an historical fact. It is true. It happened. Jesus Christ is Lord of the living and of the dead." [47:25]
Key Insights
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Resurrection as Historical Reality: The podcast underscores the Resurrection not just as a theological concept but as a documented historical event witnessed by numerous individuals, lending credence to its authenticity.
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Impact on Early Christianity: The transformation of the apostles from fear to fearless proclamation highlights the powerful and undeniable nature of their experiences with the risen Christ.
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Faith and Reason: Fr. Mike bridges faith and historical evidence, presenting the Resurrection as a truth that is both spiritually meaningful and intellectually verifiable.
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Personal Transformation: The episode invites listeners to reflect on how accepting the Resurrection can lead to personal spiritual growth and a more profound relationship with God.
Notable Quotes
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Fr. Mike Schmitz on the Nature of the Resurrection:
"Jesus really rose literally from the dead, bodily, from the dead, corporeally from the dead." [02:15]
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On the Transformation of the Disciples:
"Their faith in the resurrection was born under the action of Divine grace from their direct experience of the reality of the risen Jesus." [36:50]
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Affirming the Resurrection's Truth:
"The resurrection is an historical fact. It is true. It happened. Jesus Christ is Lord of the living and of the dead." [47:25]
Conclusion
Day 91 of "The Catechism in a Year" with Fr. Mike Schmitz offers an in-depth exploration of the Resurrection, affirming its historical reality and its pivotal role in Christian faith. By examining scriptural evidence and the transformative impact on the apostles, Fr. Mike provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of why the Resurrection is the cornerstone of Catholic belief. This episode not only reinforces theological doctrines but also encourages personal reflection and deeper faith engagement.
Additional Resources
Listeners are encouraged to follow along with the reading plan by downloading the Catechism in a Year guide from ascensionpress.com/c-i-y and to subscribe to the podcast for daily updates and notifications.
About the Podcast
Title: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Host: Ascension
Description: Fr. Mike Schmitz guides listeners through the entire Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 episodes, offering explanations, insights, and encouragement. The podcast employs a color-coded Foundations of Faith approach to elucidate the Catechism's structure, making Catholic beliefs accessible and understandable. Each 15-20 minute episode includes a guided prayer, a reading from the Catechism, and Fr. Mike’s commentary.
Listen and…
- Read the ENTIRE Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 days
- Understand the essentials of the Catholic Faith and why they matter
- Comprehend how Church teaching is rooted in Sacred Scripture
- Absorb over 2,000 years of Sacred Tradition
- Encounter God’s plan of sheer goodness for your life
Parental Discretion: The Catechism contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children.
Episode Release Date: April 1, 2025
Support the Podcast: Contributions can be made via ascensionpress.com/support to help Ascension continue producing free Catholic content.