The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast
Faith, pop culture, and headline reflections from Fr. Mike Schmitz.
Episodes
Train Your Heart to Trust
What does "Give us this day our daily bread" really mean?
Fr. Mike Schmitz explores why Jesus teaches us to ask for "daily bread" and how this simple prayer invites us to trust God one day at a time.
The Differences Between Men and Women
Are men and women really that different? And if so, what do those differences reveal about how we relate to one another?
Fr. Mike Schmitz explores how the differences between men and women are not reasons for division, but reminders of our need for one another. Rather than pitting the sexes against each other, our unique strengths and perspectives can help us pursue truth, navigate diffi
How to Correct Someone Without Hurting Them
What's the difference between criticism and correction, and does it really matter?
Fr. Mike Schmitz explains how to offer correction in a way that is both loving and effective. Instead of assuming motives, resorting to name-calling, or making personal attacks, he encourages us to focus on the facts. And when we're unsure of someone's intentions, choose trust over suspicion.
Politics Are Distracting You From This (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Are headlines, podcasts, and politics consuming your attention?
Fr. Mike Schmitz encourages us to step away from the constant noise of news, politics, and our phones and turn instead to Scripture. In the Bible, we encounter the wisdom, truth, and peace that no news cycle can provide.
What I’d Tell Someone on Their Deathbed
What do you say to someone when they're at their last moment of life?
Fr. Mike Schmitz shares what he would tell someone who's dying and it might be different than what you think.
Why Be Catholic?
Fr. Mike wants everyone to be Catholic, but why? Isn't Catholicism just a list of rules?
Fr. Mike Schmitz explains why the Catholic faith is about far more than simply “following rules.” Instead, it’s about encountering the goodness of God and experiencing the beauty of life with Him through the Catholic faith.
The Sin Jesus Spoke About Most Seriously
"Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea." Matthew 18:6
Fr. Mike Schmitz reminds us that our actions carry weight. He cautions us to remember that someone is always watching, and that we represent something greater than ourselves. Are our actions
Fr. Mike Reacts to Theo Von's Prayer
If you're a Christian and you follow Theo Von at all, you've probably heard about his reaction to an audience member calling in and getting vulnerable about his struggles. Theo Von responds by opening up about his ongoing spiritual journey and his struggles in vice and prayer.
But Fr. Mike didn't choose to highlight this moment just because of Theo Von and his journey. Theo Von's vulnera
Why You Need to Take Care of Your Body
We can fall into two traps when it comes to the body: believing the body is nothing, or believing the body is everything. Both are distortions of the truth.
Fr. Mike Schmitz reminds us that we are both body and soul. Your body is part of who you are, and your soul is part of who you are, so caring for both matter.
At the same time, St. Pope John Paul II warned against the “cult of the b
Praying Like this Changed My Life
Struggling to pray?
Fr. Mike Schmitz shows how Ignatian prayer makes prayer simple again by using Scripture and your imagination to enter into the Gospel. Begin by asking the Holy Spirit for help, choosing a short Gospel passage, and slowly immersing yourself in it one sense at a time.
Rather than replacing other prayers, Ignatian prayer deepens them, helping you grow in trust and a mor
The Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary with Fr. Mike Schmitz (Sacred Art Version)
Pray the Luminous Mysteries with Fr. Mike Schmitz!
This Teaching Will Change Your Life
Struggling to understand the Bible?
Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how the Great Adventure Bible Timeline helped him finally connect the story of salvation. Now fully refreshed, with on-location filming and expert insights, this powerful series brings Scripture to life like never before.
Whether you're new or experienced, see the big picture of God’s plan and your place in it!
Understand the
My Message For All Catholics (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Happy Easter! In this joyful season, as we celebrate the beauty of our faith, we’re also reminded of our human brokenness, and how at times, that brokenness can reflect poorly on the Church.
Fr. Mike Schmitz encourages us not to get discouraged nor walk away, whether we’re new to the Church or have been Catholic our whole lives, but instead to refocus on what makes our faith truly unique
Don’t Go Into Easter Without Asking Yourself This (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Throughout Lent, and really throughout the entire Christian life, we keep Christ crucified before our eyes as a reminder of how deeply we are loved. But it also confronts us with a question: Do I want to be associated with that?
Fr. Mike Schmitz challenges us, especially during Holy Week but also every day, to answer honestly: Do I want to be associated with Jesus, even if it means suffe
Fr. Mike Schmitz and Michael Iskander on "House of David", Catholic Faith, and More
Fr. Mike Schmitz sits down with Michael Iskander, best known for his role as King David in House of David, for a powerful conversation on faith, vocation, and the journey toward God.
They reflect on David as a flawed man after God’s own heart, exploring what it means to live faithfully, trust God’s mercy, and simply do the “next right thing.”
Michael also shares his journey to Catholici
If You're Doing This, It's Not Love (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
"No Salvation Outside the Church” Explained (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Will only Catholics go to Heaven? Is there any hope for those outside the Catholic Church?
Fr. Mike Schmitz explores the doctrine, "Outside the Church there is no salvation," to help us understand God's plan for redemption and His intention to save all, both Catholic and non-Catholic.
Your Fasting is Doing More Than You Think (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Our lives are so full of noise, distractions, constant activity. But we weren’t made to be filled with these things.
Fr. Mike Schmitz reminds us that fasting isn’t just about food. It’s about emptying ourselves so God can fill us. Lent isn’t only about saying no, it’s about saying yes to Someone greater.
The Best Thing I’ve Ever Done for Lent
So often we focus our Lent on discipline, willpower, and perfection. But the goal isn’t perfection. The goal is union.
Fr. Mike Schmitz shares that the most powerful thing he ever did for Lent wasn’t adding more prayers, books, or practices, instead it was choosing silence.
See how this simple step can transform your Lent and bring you closer to the Lord than ever before!
I’ll Never Forget What My Ex-Girlfriend Told Me (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
When someone gets chosen instead of you, how should you respond?
Fr. Mike Schmitz reminds us that God has a unique plan for each and every one of us. When others are blessed by being chosen, there is often a hidden burden that comes with it. We tend to see the blessing, but we forget the weight that accompanies it.
Instead of giving in to jealousy or self-pity, remember this: everyone h
The Devil’s Last Weapon Against You (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Falling into the same sin again and again? Don't let the devil fool you, there is hope!
Fr. Mike Schmitz warns us of the lies of the devil and encourages us to go immediately to confession when we sin. Don't get discouraged, but have the humility to confess your sins and the hope that Christ can transform you!
If in weakness you sin, in freedom, claim the Lord.
If This Doesn’t Bother You, That’s a Problem (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
What's in our heart that refuses to celebrate when good things happen to someone else?
Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on the story of the man healed on the Sabbath. Many focus on the fact that Jesus healed on the Sabbath, though technically allowed, but Fr. Mike invites us to look deeper.
The real issue isn’t the law. It’s the heart. More than Jesus performing the miracle, what this story e
Why Did Judas Betray Jesus?
Did Judas think he was actually helping Jesus fulfill His mission by betraying Him? Was Judas pre-destined to become the traitor of the Lord?
Fr. Mike Schmitz asks these bold questions and unpacks what Scripture says about the person of Judas Iscariot. By evaluating his motivations and his lack of cooperation with the grace given to him, Fr. Mike details what a tragedy it is that he nev
Infant Baptism Explained (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Why do Catholics baptize their babies? Is it even biblical?
At first glance, infant baptism can seem unbiblical. But Fr. Mike points to several instances in Scripture that support the practice and reveal God’s desire to bring children into His covenant family from the very beginning.
Baptizing a child doesn’t replace their freedom — it begins their life of faith. As they grow, they will
If You’re Too Busy, You’re in Danger of This Grave Mistake (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
"'Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?' He (Jesus) said to him, 'You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'" Matthew 22: 36-39
Fr. Mike Schmitz warns us of the dangers of making our lives too full, eve
Fr. Mike Schmitz Reacts to "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery"
Fr. Mike jumps into the mystery of Knives Out, not to solve the murder but to understand the truest mission of the priesthood.
In the midst of Hollywood's fascination with Catholicism, they've often had trouble capturing an honest representation of Catholics. However, Fr. Mike explores the success of Rian Johnson's appropriate casting and display of a priest in the midst of impossible o
Fr. Mike Reflects on 5 Years of The Bible in a Year
2026 marks the 5th anniversary of Bible in a Year! Over the past five years, the Lord has taken this podcast to extraordinary places -- reaching listeners in more than 150 countries, becoming the #1 podcast in the U.S., and remaining the #1 religious podcast in the world, even five years later.
Through Bible in a Year, God has transformed hearts and minds, and we are deeply grateful to e
Fr. Mike Schmitz Reacts to Iconic Christmas Movie Scenes
Merry Christmas from Fr. Mike Schmitz and all of us here at Ascension! While we celebrate the birth of Christ, the true reason for this season, we also reflect on the many blessings and joys with the ones we love!
Come celebrate with us as Fr. Mike reacts to Christmas movies and shares how each movie reveals a deeply Christian message to all of us!
The BEST and WORST Christmas Songs (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Fr. Mike shares his favorite — and least favorite — Christmas songs 🎄
Find out which ones he loves enough to sing all year, which he calls manipulative, and which he flat-out labels a pile of trash!
You’re Going to Die—What to Do in the Meantime (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
You may have heard the phrase, "Memento Mori" when it comes to reflecting on death, but how should Christians really view death?
Fr. Mike Schmitz explains three common views we may hold about death:
Death is the enemy
Death is a natural part of life
Death is a new birth (but we're not excited about it)
However, Fr. Mike explains that all three fall short; death is actually a lover.
The Reason God Hasn’t Answered Your Prayer Yet (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Do you trust God's timing?
Fr. Mike Schmitz reminds us that God is never late (and never early). We can trust whole heartedly that His timing is always perfect!
God’s Not Asking You to Be Successful
"God does not ask us to be successful, He asks us to be faithful." - St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta
Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on this quote along with the way St. Mother Teresa lived her life. So often we measure our lives by worldly success, however God wants your faithfulness, not your success.
Let us always say, "God let me honor you with my effort."
Maybe I Should Have Said Something…
When you miss an opportunity to share the faith, what's the next step?
Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on the question, "When should I say something?" We'll never have every answer, but if we take everything to the Lord, He will show us the way.
Addressing the FAKE Videos of Me (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
There have been numerous fake videos of Fr. Mike circulating online: clips of him supposedly asking for money for Lourdes, delivering sermons he never gave, and appearing on accounts that aren’t actually his.
These are all scams — and a concerning reminder of how easy it is to be deceived by AI-generated content.
Fr. Mike addresses these scams, shares tips for spotting fake content, and
Sin, Emotions and Virtue Explained (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Can your feelings be sinful?
Fr. Mike Schmitz reminds us that "sin and virtue do not reside in the emotions, they reside in the will." Our emotions, whether positive or negative, don’t make us good or bad; what matters is how we respond to them. Use your emotions to choose and pursue the good!
Do NOT Receive Communion Until You’ve Seen This (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
"Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord unworthily will have to answer for the body and blood of the Lord. A person should examine himself, and so eat the bread and drink the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body, eats and drinks judgment* on himself." - 1 Corinthians 11:27-29
Fr. Mike explains that receiving Holy Communion in a state of
How Being a Christian Will Affect Your Life (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
As we discover the lives of the saints, it seems they endured quite a bit of suffering before receiving their eternal reward. It begs the question, is it worth it?
Fr. Mike reminds us that in this life, we will have suffering. The question is not, can you avoid suffering by avoiding Jesus? The question is, can your suffering be transformed by embracing Jesus?
How to Get Better Friends
You may have close friends in your life, but do you have virtuous friendships?
Fr. Mike Schmitz shares three kinds of friendship and explains that while it's important to have good friends, you need to have this special kind of friendship with at least one person in your life: virtuous friendship.
Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at https://www.AscensionPres
The Liturgy of the Hours Explained (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Big news! Ascension was selected by the USCCB to publish the long-awaited Second Edition of the Liturgy of the Hours!
You may have heard of the Liturgy of the Hours, but not quite like this. Fr. Mike Schmitz shares why this ancient prayer holds such a special place in his heart and how praying it can transform your relationship with God.
For updates and preorder opportunities, sign up a
Fr. Mike Schmitz Reacts to The Chosen
Fr. Mike Schmitz is back, reacting to powerful scenes from The Chosen. Find out which moments brought him to tears, which ones he wrestled with, and hear his honest perspective on how the series portrays the life of Christ.
Should Catholics Practice This Buddhist Principle? (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
📖 Listen to Fr. Mike’s full recording of "The Imitation of Christ" with commentary, available now on the Ascension App!
Or check out: https://ascensionpress.com/catholicclassics
Fr. Mike Schmitz introduces Thomas à Kempis’ classic, The Imitation of Christ and unpacks its central theme of detachment. He explains how Christian detachment differs from Buddhist detachment.
Christian deta
Fr. Mike on the Charlie Kirk Shooting & The Real Cause of Violence
If you've been rocked by all of the death, violence, and destruction in the news these past few weeks, you are not alone. Fr. Mike offers guidance during this difficult time, and reflects on Charlie Kirk's words: "When people stop talking, that's when you get violence."
Fr. Mike filmed this video on September 12th, 2025 — two days after Charlie Kirk's assassination.
How Do People Become Saints? (Fr. Mike Explains the Canonization Process)
How does someone become a saint? What steps and criteria does the Catholic Church follow in the canonization process?
Fr. Mike unpacks the journey to sainthood and reminds us that holiness begins with one simple thing, saying “yes” to God.
Introducing Fr. Mike’s New Podcast: “Called”
"Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40)
Fr. Mike shares the exciting news of his new podcast, "Called"! Join us each week as Fr. Mike sits down with a new guest discussing how we're all called to live a more virtuous, generous and Christ-centered life.
To learn more, check out: https://thecatholicinitiative.org/pod
Fr. Mike Reacts to His First Video Ever
It’s hard to believe, but it’s been 10 years since Fr. Mike first appeared on Ascension Presents! From day one, his wisdom, humor, and joy have inspired countless people on their faith journey. Whether you’ve been here since the very beginning or just discovered our channel, come join us as Fr. Mike takes a trip down memory lane, reacting to his very first Ascension Presents video!
How to Be Okay with Silence
Does silence ever feel uncomfortable? Do you fill the quiet with TV, music, or endless scrolling?
Fr. Mike explains why silence isn’t something to fear but something we desperately need, both in our daily lives and especially in prayer. While learning, entertainment, and even guided prayers can be good, true growth happens when we create space for silence and allow ourselves to hear the
Fr. Mike Reacts to Confession Scenes from Movies and TV Shows
Have you ever watched a confession scene and wondered how accurate it really is? Join Fr. Mike as he reacts to popular confession scenes in movies and tv shows!
The Best Thing Fr. Mike Learned From His Parents
Looking for a powerful book recommendation? Look no further. Fr. Mike’s new book Unshakeable is all about living a life of virtue in the midst of chaos.
Fr. Mike shares why he dedicated the book to his parents, the best advice they ever gave him, and the four simple words that can change everything: “Trust in the Lord.”
Is It Normal to Feel Lonely? Fr. Mike on Loneliness
Do you feel lost in your loneliness?
Fr. Mike reminds us that throughout Scripture, loneliness shows up again and again, even Jesus himself experienced deep moments of isolation. If you’re feeling alone, know that you’re not the only one. In your loneliness, you can unite your heart to Christ’s, who truly understands what you're going through.
Fr. Mike’s Tips for Praying as a Busy Person
How do I fit in prayer with my busy schedule?
Fr. Mike shares some practical advice for fitting in prayer when you feel you don't have time. He also explains the importance of having a plan by sharing these three questions: Where am I going to pray?When am I going to pray? How am I going to pray?
Fr. Mike Says You Should Judge People (Kind Of)
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged" (Matthew 7:1). What did Jesus really mean by that? Does this mean Christians should never call out sin or hold others accountable?
Fr. Mike Schmitz breaks down this often-misunderstood teaching of Jesus. He explains that while we’re called not to condemn others' hearts or souls, we are called to discern right from wrong. The key? Start with humil
Why Is There No Marriage in Heaven?
For some, this may be the saddest part about Heaven, but it shouldn't be! Fr. Mike dives into the deeper meaning behind this teaching and explains why it's actually good news. He reminds us that Heaven isn’t a loss of love, but the fulfillment of it. In Heaven, you won’t love your spouse less… you’ll love them more than ever before.
Where Do I Start with the Bible?
Feeling intimidated by the Bible? You’re not alone — but that shouldn’t keep you from opening it.
Fr. Mike Schmitz explains why that feeling is normal and even good. He shares how to approach Scripture with humility and curiosity, and offers tools like The Bible in a Year podcast and the Great Adventure Bible Timeline to help you get started. Don’t wait until you feel ready, begin today!
What to Do with My Loneliness (w/ Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Loneliness is real and loneliness is really difficult. How do I handle feeling alone and what does my loneliness mean?
Fr. Mike speaks into the deep and painful experience of loneliness, especially in the Christian life. He reminds us that loneliness is not a sign of failure or weakness, but a reflection of our God-given longing for love and communion. While God is always near, Fr. Mike
If You Feel Lost Right Now (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Feeling unsure about the road ahead? Do you catch yourself comparing your journey to everyone else’s?
Fr. Mike has a message to anyone in a life transition who may feel lost or uncertain about what’s next. He reminds us that the whole point of the story is not what happens in the story; it’s who you become in the process. You’re not falling behind. You’re finding your way.
Tickets are o
Why We Keep Forgetting What We Believe as Catholics (Foundations of Faith Preview)
Why do we recite the Creed every Sunday?
Fr. Mike Schmitz and Dr. Edward Sri break down the purpose of the Creed in the Mass and uncover the fact that it isn't just about what we believe in, but who we believe in.
This video is a brief excerpt from Foundations of Faith: A Journey Through the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the ultimate way for your parish or small group to encounter t
Fr. Mike's Thoughts on Babies Crying
Why do babies cry? Have you ever considered that their cries might have something to teach us?
Fr. Mike explains that a baby's cry is an act of faith—they cry because they trust someone will hear, someone will care, and someone will come. In the same way, when we cry out to God in our moments of pain or loneliness, that too is an act of faith. And like a loving Father, He sees us, He car
How the Holy Spirit Guides the Election of the Pope
How does the Holy Spirit guide the Church when a new pope is chosen?
Fr. Mike explains the unique relationship between divine guidance and human decision-making in the papal election. Though the process can be slow, complicated, and even filled with disagreement, the Holy Spirit is still powerfully at work—just as He is in our everyday lives.
To learn more about Pope Leo XIV, pre-order
We’ve Got a New Pope! What’s Next?
Habemus Papam! We have a Pope — Pope Leo XIV!
On this joyous occasion, Fr. Mike encourages us to welcome Pope Leo XIV with open hearts. He reminds us that before forming opinions or drawing comparisons to past popes, we should first offer him the respect, trust, and prayers he deserves as our Holy Father.
To learn more about Pope Leo XIV, pre-order your copy of, "When the White Smoke Cl
How I Handle Haters
Do you struggle to handle criticism well? Do you get defensive even when you know there’s room to grow?
Fr. Mike Schmitz discusses how to handle criticism, exploring three primary approaches: denial, acceptance, and gratitude. He emphasizes the importance of discerning what part of the criticism is true, acknowledging those truths, and discarding the falsehoods to avoid unnecessary self-
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 9
Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision.
🙏 Pray with us for free on the Ascension App! https://link.ascension-app.com/Conclave
Romans 12:4-5: “For as in one body we have many members, an
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 8
Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision.
🙏 Pray with us right here on YouTube, or for free on the Ascension App! https://link.ascension-app.com/Conclave
Jeremiah 3:15: “And I will give y
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 7
Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision.
Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make str
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 6
Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision.
Romans 12:12: “Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
O God, we pray in union with the whole Church for the
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 5
Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision.
Psalm 46:10: “Be still and know that I am God.”
O God, we pray in union with the whole Church for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Cardi
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 4
Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision.
Matthew 28:16-20: “And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of
Fr. Mike Schmitz Reviews "Conclave" Movie
It looked good. The acting was great. The plot was interesting. But what was at the heart of the hit movie Conclave? And what can we learn ahead of this real-life conclave?
Fr. Mike Schmitz gives us his take on the movie and dissects the problematic assumptions behind Conclave—and encourages us in our own faith journeys.
Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at ht
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 3
Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision.
🙏 Pray with us right here on YouTube, or for free on the Ascension App! https://link.ascension-app.com/Conclave
Matthew 16:15-18: “He said to the
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 2
Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision.
John 16:13: "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own but will only repeat what
Novena for the Papal Conclave: Day 1
Join Fr. Mike Schmitz for the next 9 days as we pray a novena leading up to the Papal Conclave. Each day, we’ll lift up the Cardinal electors as they prepare to discern the next pope, calling on the Holy Spirit to guide this historic decision.
John 17:21: "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world, but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as
What the Death of Pope Francis Teaches Us
In the wake of Pope Francis’s passing, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares a powerful reflection on loss, legacy, and the enduring mission of the Church.
He reminds us that while every soul is uniquely irreplaceable, the roles we hold can be entrusted to others because our identity is rooted not in what we do, but in who we are. May this truth bring you great hope as we look ahead to the future of
What To Do When You Feel Like God’s Not Speaking to You
Do you struggle to get much out of prayer? Do you feel like God’s not speaking to you?
Today, Fr. Mike Schmitz invites us to deepen our prayer life by asking two essential questions: “What am I looking for?” and “What am I listening for?” Drawing from the rich tradition of Ignatian spirituality, he guides us in using our imagination and five senses to cultivate a more intimate and person
What Jesus Needs From You This Holy Week
As we journey through Holy Week, let's pause before rushing to Easter. This sacred time invites us to reflect deeply on Jesus' message to His disciples and to us: "Stay with me."
Today, Fr. Mike Schmitz emphasizes the power of simply being present with Jesus. He reminds us that during this solemn week, Jesus isn't asking for our perfection or strength — He desires our presence. By stayin
Miracles: The Bible vs. Today (What's Changed?)
Do miracles occur more frequently in the Bible or in today's world? Why do some of my prayers for miracles seem unanswered?
Today, Fr. Mike Schmitz delves into the mystery of miracles, explaining how they are recognized and validated in the Catholic Church, and exploring why God sometimes grants miracles and other times does not.
Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables T
If You Need to Miss Mass, ALWAYS Do THIS First (Sunday Mass Dispensation Explained)
Attending Sunday Mass is essential in the Catholic faith, and intentionally missing Mass is a mortal sin, which requires confession before you can receive communion again.
However, did you know that if you have a serious and legitimate reason for being unable to attend Mass, you can request a dispensation from your priest?
Today, Fr. Mike explains that while missing Mass and requesting
What You Have NOT Been Told About Baptism
Are you a child of the light or a child of darkness?
Today, Fr. Mike reminds us that, though we are all born with original sin, God offers us the transformative gift of baptism, bringing us into His Kingdom of light. Let us not delay in surrendering our lives to Christ through the sacrament of baptism.
Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at www.AscensionPress.co
The Brutal Truth About Holiness
When you think of holiness, what comes to mind? Is it a saint who has never stumbled? Does the idea of holiness feel out of reach when you're grappling with your own brokenness or the weight of your sins?
Today, Fr. Mike reminds us that the journey to holiness isn’t always a straight path. There are both good days and bad. Yet, despite our flaws and failures, God’s grace and mercy remain
When Crude Language Becomes Sinful
Do you struggle with taking the Lord’s name in vain or with cussing? Are you trying to avoid cussing entirely, but are still saying something crude?
Today, Fr. Mike shares the distinction between the words we use regarding foul language. Because our words reveal our hearts, our words matter greatly.
Train for Martyrdom This Lent
Should you give things up for Lent, or take new things on? Is it better to pray more, or to give more of your time away? How does almsgiving fit into all of this?
This Lent, Fr. Mike wants to refocus your efforts by trying a new idea: do something with zero benefit to yourself. This is how to do that and why it works.
Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at www.A
"Can I Go to the Wedding?" Answered
If you're Catholic, you're probably aware that not every wedding is the same in the eyes of the Church. You may have heard of situations—or been in ones yourself—where you're not sure if it's okay for you, as a practicing Catholic, to attend such a wedding. How do you know when it's okay and when it's not okay?
Fr. Mike not only gives us a couple of guiding principles but also breaks dow
