The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 85: The Trial of Christ (2026)
Mar 26, 2026
A reflection on the trial and crucifixion that explores how human sin—even divisions and political maneuvering—played a role in Christ’s Passion. It stresses that blame is not collective and confronts misconceptions about Jewish responsibility. The reading also highlights how ongoing personal sin can crucify Christ anew and how God can bring good from humanity’s worst acts.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Church Rejects Collective Jewish Guilt For Crucifixion
- The Church clarifies that Jews are not collectively responsible for Jesus' death.
- Fr. Mike cites Catechism paragraphs 595–597 and Vatican II to explain divisions among Jewish leaders and varied belief at the time.
All Sinners Share Responsibility For Christ's Passion
- All sinners share responsibility for Christ's Passion, not a single group.
- Fr. Mike emphasizes paragraph 598: our individual and collective sins caused Jesus' suffering and death, so we must take responsibility.
Take Responsibility Instead Of Shifting Blame
- Accept personal responsibility for your sins instead of blaming others.
- Fr. Mike quotes the Roman Catechism and St. Francis: relapsing into sin 'crucifies the Son of God anew in their hearts.'