Podcast Summary: "The Best Thing Fr. Mike Learned From His Parents"
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast
- Host/Author: Ascension
- Description: Faith, pop culture, and headline reflections from Fr. Mike Schmitz.
- Episode: The Best Thing Fr. Mike Learned From His Parents
- Release Date: August 15, 2025
Introduction
In this heartfelt episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the profound lessons he learned from his parents, which have significantly shaped his life and ministry. Drawing from personal anecdotes and reflections, he emphasizes the importance of love, honesty, and trust in building a virtuous life amidst chaos.
Dedication to His Parents
Fr. Mike begins by introducing his book, Unshakable: Building a Life of Virtue in a World of Chaos, dedicating it to his parents. This dedication serves as a foundation for the episode's exploration of the invaluable lessons imparted by his mother and father.
Notable Quote:
"It's to my mom and dad who built a life of virtue in a world of chaos."
(00:30)
Lessons from His Mother
Fr. Mike shares the first pivotal lesson from his mother: Love is sometimes just showing up. He recounts how his mother, a trained nurse, seamlessly managed daily routines—preparing breakfasts, packing lunches, and making suppers. Initially, he associated her love with the meals she prepared, taking it for granted until later realizing that her cooking wasn't exceptional and that she didn't particularly enjoy it.
Key Points:
- Consistent Presence: His mother’s unwavering commitment to managing the household exemplified her love.
- Revelation of True Love: Understanding that love doesn't require perfection or recognition.
- Emphasis on Action Over Skill: Highlighting that love is demonstrated through actions, not necessarily through exceptional abilities.
Notable Quote:
"Building a life of virtue in the world of chaos is about love."
(04:15)
"Sometimes love is just showing up, not showing up perfectly."
(09:30)
Lessons from His Father
The second crucial lesson comes from his father: Rigorous honesty. Fr. Mike shares a personal story where he initially hesitated to disclose full details about a project related to building a Newman Center and a church. Concerned about potential embarrassment, he omitted certain facts. Upon discussing this with his father, he was reminded of the importance of complete honesty, regardless of the consequences.
Key Points:
- Complete Transparency: Always tell the whole truth, even if it’s uncomfortable.
- Integrity Over Convenience: Prioritizing honesty over easing social interactions.
- Long-term Respect: Maintaining trust and respect through unwavering truthfulness.
Notable Quote:
"Rigorous honesty just to tell the whole truth."
(15:45)
"When it needs to be said, it needs to be said."
(17:20)
Trust in the Lord: The Chalice Story
Fr. Mike introduces a poignant symbol of his parents' teachings through the inscription on his chalice: "Trust in the Lord, Love mom and dad". This inscription encapsulates the culmination of his parents' lessons and his personal faith journey.
Key Points:
- Symbolic Inscription: Represents the foundational values instilled by his parents.
- Daily Remembrance: Every time he receives the Eucharist, the inscription serves as a spiritual reminder.
- Legacy of Faith: Trusting in the Lord is interwoven with the love and honesty taught by his parents.
Notable Quote:
"Trust in the Lord, Love mom and dad. That's everything."
(22:10)
"Whenever I tip the cup up, those words are visible to everyone."
(24:50)
Key Takeaways
Fr. Mike succinctly summarizes the enduring lessons from his parents that continue to guide his life and ministry:
-
Love is Sometimes Just Showing Up: Demonstrating love through consistent presence and actions, regardless of perfection.
-
Rigorous Honesty: Upholding complete honesty in all interactions, fostering trust and integrity.
-
Trust in the Lord: Placing unwavering trust in God as the cornerstone of a virtuous life.
These principles not only honor his parents' legacy but also serve as a roadmap for others striving to build a life of virtue amidst the chaos of the modern world.
Conclusion
In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz beautifully intertwines personal memories with profound life lessons, offering listeners both inspiration and practical wisdom. By reflecting on his parents' influence, he underscores the timeless values of love, honesty, and faith, encouraging others to embrace these virtues in their own lives.
Notable Quote:
"Build a life of virtue in the world of chaos."
(28:35)
Fr. Mike closes with an affirmation of his hope to emulate his parents' example, fostering a life rooted in these foundational teachings.
Final Thoughts
This episode serves as a testament to the enduring impact of parental guidance and the foundational virtues that sustain individuals through life's challenges. Fr. Mike Schmitz eloquently captures the essence of these lessons, making them accessible and applicable to a wide audience seeking spiritual and personal growth.