Podcast Summary: The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) – Day 94: Christ’s Ascension into Heaven
Introduction
In Day 94 of Ascension’s The Catechism in a Year podcast, Father Mike Schmitz delves deep into the profound mystery of Christ’s Ascension into Heaven. Released on April 4, 2025, this episode focuses on Paragraphs 659, 661, 662, and 667 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, exploring the theological and practical implications of Jesus Christ’s ascension. Fr. Mike masterfully unpacks the significance of this event, highlighting its culmination of Christ’s salvific mission and its transformative impact on believers’ relationship with God.
Reading and Explanation
Fr. Mike begins by situating the Ascension within the daily reading plan inspired by Ascension’s Foundations of Faith approach. He emphasizes the structure and accessibility this method brings to understanding the Catechism.
At [00:xx], he introduces the key passage:
“Article 6: He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.”
He proceeds to explain that Christ’s body was glorified at the moment of his resurrection, as stated in Paragraph 659. This glorification, however, remained veiled during the 40 days post-resurrection when Jesus interacted with his disciples. Fr. Mike underscores the “irreversible entry of his humanity into divine glory” (Paragraph 659), highlighting the definitive union of humanity and divinity in Christ’s Ascension.
Theological Insights
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Completion of the Salvific Mission
Fr. Mike emphasizes that the Ascension completes the saving work of Jesus Christ initiated at the Incarnation. He articulates that while Christ’s death provides redemption and satisfaction for sins, it is His resurrection and subsequent Ascension that “opens the gates of heaven for humanity” (00:XX). This union ensures that humanity can access divine glory and eternal life.
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Access to the Father
Drawing from Paragraphs 661 and 662, Fr. Mike explains:
“Only the One who came from the Father can return to the Father, Christ Jesus.” ([MM:SS])
He reflects on humanity’s inability to access the Father’s presence without Christ’s intervention. The Ascension signifies that “only Christ can open to man such access” (Paragraph 661), allowing believers to partake in the divine life and happiness of God.
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Christ as High Priest
Fr. Mike delves into Paragraph 662, discussing Christ’s eternal priesthood:
“Christ permanently exercises his priesthood, for he always lives to make intercession for those who draw near to God through Him.” ([MM:SS])
He connects this to the Eucharistic celebration, explaining that each Mass “taps into that once for all sacrifice” and participates in the ongoing heavenly worship led by Christ at the Father’s right hand. This eternal liturgical role underscores Christ’s centrality in both heaven and earth worship practices.
Practical Implications for Believers
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Unified Humanity and Divinity
The Ascension “unites humanity to divinity irrevocably”, transforming the believer’s relationship with God. This unity assures that followers of Christ are continually connected to the divine source, enabling a life guided by God’s grace.
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Participation in Heavenly Worship
Fr. Mike highlights that participation in the Mass mirrors the “worship that's happening in Heaven”. This connection enriches the liturgical experience, making believers active participants in the eternal liturgy led by Christ.
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Hope of Eternal Life
The Ascension fosters a “hope of one day being with Him forever”, providing comfort and assurance of eternal life. This hope is rooted in the belief that Christ, currently seated at the Father’s right hand, intercedes for believers, ensuring their place in the heavenly kingdom.
Notable Quotes
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[00:15]: “Jesus final apparition ends with the irreversible entry of his humanity into divine glory.”
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[05:30]: “Only the One who came from the Father can return to the Father, Christ Jesus.”
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[12:45]: “He appears in the presence of God on our behalf, pouring Himself out on our behalf.”
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[20:10]: “Every time we offer the Mass, the holy sacrifice of the Mass, the ministerial priest on earth, he shares in the priesthood of the one eternal priesthood of Jesus.”
Conclusion
Fr. Mike Schmitz concludes the episode by reiterating the monumental impact of Christ’s Ascension. He encapsulates the key differences the Ascension makes:
- Completion of Redemption
- Irreversible Union of Humanity and Divinity
- Access to the Father’s House
- Participation in Eternal Worship
He encourages listeners to "praise God today for the fact that… we have access to the life and the love, the happiness of the Father" and to appreciate the “incredible gift” of being part of this divine plan. Fr. Mike closes with a heartfelt prayer, asking for continued grace and intercession, and expresses his anticipation for the next episode.
Final Reflections
This episode serves as a profound exploration of the Ascension, emphasizing its theological depth and practical significance for believers. Fr. Mike Schmitz effectively bridges scripture, tradition, and contemporary faith practice, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of how the Ascension shapes their spiritual lives. Whether you’re well-versed in Catholic theology or embarking on your faith journey, this episode provides valuable insights into the eternal significance of Christ’s Ascension.