The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Conversation about treating the body as a gift, not an idol or a nuisance. Discussion of cultural health trends and why physical care matters. Examination of the balance between body and soul through faith perspectives. Practical, humble suggestions for honoring the body in everyday life.

A practical walkthrough of Ignatian imaginative prayer and how to begin using Scripture and your senses. A step-by-step guide to asking the Holy Spirit for help, choosing a short Gospel scene, and picturing sight, sound, touch, and smell. Reflections on a 30-day retreat and how this practice fosters intimacy, trust, and a more personal relationship with Jesus.

A guided recitation of the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary, focusing on Baptism, Proclamation, Transfiguration, and the Institution of the Eucharist. Short prayers and intentions for church leaders and intentions are offered. The recording closes with traditional devotions like the Fatima prayer and the Hail Holy Queen.

A personal journey about finally understanding Scripture and the story of salvation. The discovery of a visual Bible timeline that connects the dots across books. Reflections on teaching that method to others and why readers often lose the narrative. A fresh, on-location refresh that aims to bring the Bible’s big picture to life.

An Easter reflection on why people are coming into the Church and the paths that lead them there. A discussion of the Church’s simultaneous brokenness and beauty and how to hold both together. Thoughts on Tolkien’s view of the Eucharist and why receiving Communion matters even amid imperfection. A brief look at a new program to welcome and guide seekers into the faith.

A reflection on why the crucifix remains central and what it means to be identified with a suffering Christ. Stories from a Krakow pilgrimage and an unsettling crucifix prompt a confronting question about choosing to belong to the rejected. A call to recognize Jesus in the poor and distressed during Holy Week and beyond.

Michael Iskander, actor who played King David and convert to Catholicism, shares his faith journey and conversion story. He talks about portraying a flawed David, trusting God through an uncertain acting career, and how suffering refines faith. He outlines five spiritual practices for spiritual battle and reflects on unity among Christians and responding courageously to God’s call.

A reflection on what truly counts as love and how it can be distorted. Discussion of Genesis' threefold human calling: work, rest, and communal love. Exploration of using others versus indifference and how both deny human dignity. References to C.S. Lewis and John Paul II on seeing each person as made in God's image. A call to practice chastity as daily affirmation of worth.

A clear unpacking of what the phrase about salvation outside the Church actually means. Discussion of Jesus as the one mediator and how grace can be mediated through many channels. Reflection on the Church as a universal instrument of salvation and hope for those outside it. Calls to prayer, humility in judgment, and recognizing goodness beyond institutional boundaries.

A lively look at fasting as more than food, exploring how emptying ourselves creates space for God. Practical ideas include fasting from noise, schedules, possessions, and entertainment. Careful guidance is offered for those with health or food struggles and for when to use Church allowances. The episode pushes practicing saying no so saying yes to Jesus becomes easier.