

The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast
Ascension
Faith, pop culture, and headline reflections from Fr. Mike Schmitz.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 14, 2023 • 9min
You CAN Quit Porn. Here’s How.
In this podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz discusses the prevalence of sexual temptation and pornography. He explores how to overcome challenges like the availability and affordability of porn by using tools like Covenant Eyes. Fr. Mike suggests removing electronic devices and seeking accountability from a trusted person as ways to overcome addiction.

Dec 7, 2023 • 9min
When God Doesn’t Answer Your Prayers
The podcast discusses the disappointment of unanswered prayers and reminds listeners that God is a loving Father who desires to give good things. It emphasizes the importance of intentional prayers of thanksgiving and praise, and encourages trust and perseverance in prayer.

Nov 30, 2023 • 6min
How Guardian Angels Actually Work
Explore the nature and role of guardian angels, including their creation, attributes, and the importance of devotion. Learn how to seek the protection of guardian angels and nurture your relationship with them as a gift from God.

Nov 23, 2023 • 9min
Sneaky Ways to Be Prideful (and How to Stop)
Explore different forms of pride such as boastfulness, ostentation, and hypocrisy. Discover ways to close the gap between our ideal and actual selves and overcome pride by practicing virtues. Learn about the ambition of saints and the importance of offering everything to God.

13 snips
Nov 16, 2023 • 7min
Why You’ll Never Be Strong Enough
Discover the drawbacks of self-reliance and the sufficiency of God's grace. Learn how to recognize weakness and rely on God. Find out how to be patient with yourself and seek God's mercy and grace when stumbling.

Nov 9, 2023 • 10min
Facing the Consequences of Your Actions
The podcast discusses the concept of free will and the consequences of our choices. It shares personal stories about underestimating consequences and choosing rebellion and indifference to God. It emphasizes the opportunity we have to choose God and be restored.

8 snips
Nov 2, 2023 • 10min
Are Your Sins the Same Story Again and Again? Rewrite the Script.
Learn how to overcome repetitive sins by recognizing the patterns and triggers behind them, and rewriting the script. Explore the challenges of rewriting the script and the iterative process of finding what works. Discover the process of breaking free from sinful behaviors and patterns with recognition, planning, and intense effort, with the help of Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

Oct 26, 2023 • 8min
Superheroes vs. Saints
Some people pour through comic books like they're devotional works, following the lives of superheroes like some study the lives of the saints.
In this redux from the archives, Fr. Mike interviews sacred artist Neilson Carlin about the crossover between comics books and sacred art, and how the desire to emulate superheroes is truly fulfilled when we follow the saints to Christ.
Be sure to check out Neilson's fine artwork (pun intended) at https://www.neilsoncarlin.com/Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast

Oct 19, 2023 • 7min
Your Pastor Needs Help. Here's Where You Come In.
Learn how offering help and support to your parish priest can make a positive impact on your community. Find out the importance of humility and understanding when approaching new communities. Discover tips on becoming more involved in your parish and how to use your gifts to contribute to the greater mission of the church.

Oct 12, 2023 • 8min
Prayer is a Battle: Strategies for Victory
When we read the lives of the saints it can appear like prayer comes so easily to them; almost as if they were soaking in a hot tub of grace. But then when we go to pray we are confronted with the harsh reality that "Prayer is HARD." It can feel much more like struggling to swim laps in an Olympic sized pool.
Today, Fr. Mike shares some wisdom from the fourth Pillar of the Catechism of the Catholic Church: Our Life in Prayer.
– "Prayer is both a gift of grace and a determined response on our part. It always presupposes effort. The great figures of prayer of the Old Covenant before Christ, as well as the Mother of God, the saints, and he himself, all teach us this: prayer is a battle. Against whom? Against ourselves and against the wiles of the tempter who does all he can to turn man away from prayer, away from union with God. We pray as we live, because we live as we pray. If we do not want to act habitually according to the Spirit of Christ, neither can we pray habitually in his name. The "spiritual battle" of the Christian's new life is inseparable from the battle of prayer." CCC 2725Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast


