Podcast Summary: "What Do You Wear to Mass?"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast
• Host/Author: Ascension
• Description: Faith, pop culture, and headline reflections from Fr. Mike Schmitz.
• Episode: What Do You Wear to Mass?
• Release Date: November 14, 2024

Introduction

In the episode titled "What Do You Wear to Mass?", Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the nuanced relationship between external appearance and internal disposition when attending Mass. He explores the balance between presenting one's best self and understanding God's unconditional acceptance, integrating biblical references and personal anecdotes to illustrate his points.

The Importance of Appearance in Worship

Fr. Mike begins by addressing a common concern among parishioners regarding the significance of attire in Mass. He recounts a conversation where someone was uncomfortable with the notion that dressing up for Mass is important. This individual affirmed their belief that "God accepts me however I am" and emphasized that God's love transcends external appearances.

"I know the truth about God is that he accepts me however I am, however I approach him, he loves me however I approach him, he rejoices over the fact that I exist..." (00:00)

Biblical Perspectives on Appearance and Heart

Fr. Mike references the First Book of Samuel to highlight that God's judgment is based on the heart rather than outward appearances. He cites the story of the prophet Samuel being instructed not to judge by appearance alone when selecting a king from Jesse's sons.

"The Lord does not look at the outward appearance, but at the heart." (02:15)

He further discusses Jesus' teachings on hypocrisy, explaining that external appearances can sometimes mask the true internal state. Using the Greek term for "hypocrite," which means "actor" or "pretender," Fr. Mike emphasizes that dressing up solely to appear pious without genuine internal devotion is misleading.

"They’re pretending they’re acting. They’re a hypocrite." (05:30)

External Appearance as a Reflection of Internal Disposition

While acknowledging that the heart is paramount, Fr. Mike explores whether external attire can also convey one's internal state. He suggests that dressing appropriately for Mass can be an expression of reverence and respect for the sacred act of worship.

"If I knew that when I come to worship that I’m about to do the greatest act in the known universe... would I not want my internal disposition to in some way be expressed by my external appearance?" (10:45)

Cultural and Individual Variations in "Sunday Best"

Fr. Mike acknowledges that the concept of "Sunday best" varies across different cultures and individuals. What constitutes formal attire in one culture may differ in another, and personal circumstances influence one's wardrobe choices.

"Your Sunday best in downtown Manhattan would not necessarily be someone’s Sunday best in Zimbabwe." (15:20)

He shares a personal anecdote about a young man at an Easter vigil who chose to wear a nice tracksuit over a traditional suit and tie, illustrating that one's best effort might manifest differently based on individual resources and cultural contexts.

"He was thinking, oh, this is the kind of event where if you have something nicer, we're the nicest thing you have to this event." (18:35)

Balancing Best and Worst

Fr. Mike emphasizes that while presenting one's best externally is encouraged, it's equally important to understand that God embraces individuals in their entirety, including their imperfections.

"God wants all of us, meaning our best and our worst." (22:10)

He encourages listeners not to let concerns about attire prevent them from attending Mass and to refrain from judging others based on their clothing.

"Don't let not having nice clothes prohibit you from going to mass. Don't judge someone else for not having nice clothes." (26:50)

Conclusion: Heart Over Attire

Fr. Mike concludes by reinforcing that the essence of attending Mass lies in the internal disposition of the heart. While attire can serve as an expression of respect and reverence, the true value lies in the sincerity of one's worship and relationship with God.

"Ultimately it's about the heart." (30:05)

He invites listeners to reflect on whether their external appearance is covering or conveying their internal disposition, encouraging a balance between honoring God with both heart and attire.

Key Takeaways

1. God Values the Heart: While external appearances can reflect internal states, God judges based on the heart's sincerity and devotion.
2. Cultural Sensitivity: "Sunday best" varies across cultures and individuals; what's important is the intention behind the attire.
3. Avoiding Hypocrisy: Dressing up for appearances without genuine internal devotion is contrary to authentic worship.
4. Inclusivity in Worship: God's acceptance is not contingent upon one's external appearance; individuals should not be deterred from attending Mass based on their attire.
5. Expressing Reverence: While God appreciates internal devotion, presenting oneself respectfully through attire can enhance the worship experience.

Notable Quotes

• "I know the truth about God is that he accepts me however I am..." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (00:00)
• "The Lord does not look at the outward appearance, but at the heart." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (02:15)
• "They’re pretending they’re acting. They’re a hypocrite." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (05:30)
• "If I knew that when I come to worship that I’m about to do the greatest act in the known universe... would I not want my internal disposition to in some way be expressed by my external appearance?" — Fr. Mike Schmitz (10:45)
• "Your Sunday best in downtown Manhattan would not necessarily be someone’s Sunday best in Zimbabwe." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (15:20)
• "God wants all of us, meaning our best and our worst." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (22:10)
• "Don’t let not having nice clothes prohibit you from going to mass. Don't judge someone else for not having nice clothes." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (26:50)
• "Ultimately it’s about the heart." — Fr. Mike Schmitz (30:05)

Final Thoughts

Fr. Mike Schmitz masterfully balances the discussion between external appearances and internal devotion, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the role attire plays in worship. He reassures that while presenting oneself respectfully is meaningful, it is the genuine intention and love in one's heart that truly matter to God. This episode serves as an encouragement for all to approach Mass with sincerity, whether dressed in their best or simply as they are.

End of Summary