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Fr. Mike reminds us that, eventually, the world will forget us. He encourages us to keep our eyes fixed on heaven, focusing on surrender and trust in God rather than control. Today's readings are 1 Kings 10, Ecclesiastes 8-9, and Psalm 8. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike delves deeper into the lessons Ecclesiastes teaches us today about living wisely by keeping the end in mind, enjoying the present moment, and not worrying too much about other people's opinions of us. Today's readings are 1 Kings 9, Ecclesiastes 6-7, and Psalm 7. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike explains the details of Solomon's dedication of the Temple, and the power of God's presence dwelling in it. In Ecclesiastes, we continue to learn more nuggets of wisdom about friendship, prudence, and money. Today we read 1 Kings 8, Ecclesiastes 3-5, and Psalm 6. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Do you have a relationships with the saints? In this two-part series, Jeff fouses on the concept of the 'communion of saints' and compares it to a 'spiritual mutual fund.' He explains the importance of the saints, their role in heaven, and how they intercede for us on Earth. With references to the Catechism and the teachings of St. John Paul II, Jeff delves into why the saints are essential along our faith journey. Snippet from the Show The Communion of Saints is a spiritual union of all the members of the Church. In Christ, we cannot be separated from each other. Email us with comments or questions at thejeffcavinsshow@ascensionpress.com. Text “jeffcavins” to 33-777 to subscribe and get Jeff's shownotes delivered straight to your email! Or visit https://media.ascensionpress.com/?s=&page=2&category%5B0%5D=Ascension%20Podcasts&category%5B1%5D=The%20Jeff%20Cavins%20Show for full shownotes!
Today, we begin reading Ecclesiastes! Fr. Mike helps us understand the central theme of this book of wisdom literature—the meaning of life. What truly matters in this passing life? It's only because God exists that everything matters, and our choices and lives will endure into eternity. Today's readings are 1 Kings 7, Ecclesiastes 1-2, and Psalm 5. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike explains the purpose behind the beauty and extravagance of the Temple Solomon built for the Lord. On the other hand, he also points out the issue with the image of power and strength Solomon is trying to portray by gathering so much wealth as King. Today's readings are 1 Kings 6, 2 Chronicles 9, and Psalm 4. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
How can the Church be renewed from within? How do we faithfully follow our conscience while acting with prudence? Mike Gormley and Dave VanVickle explore how saints, popes, and everyday men and women—including themselves—have embraced the real work of the Kingdom, responding to the failures of Church leadership not with bitterness, but with holiness and give tips on how you can too! Snippet from the Show “The fact of the matter is that no matter the office, no matter the charism, holiness has always trumped everything when it comes to authority in the Church and so what I'd say is like, if you are frustrated with Church leadership, be holy. Be a saint!” We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
Fr. Mike reinforces the power of God's presence in the Temple, and the importance of worshipping God the way he desires to be worshipped. We also begin to hear how Solomon starts disobeying God and setting himself up for idolatry. Today's readings are 1 Kings 5, 2 Chronicles 7-8, and Psalm 66. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
How do we build strong families? Guests Mike and Alicia Hernan from The Messy Family Project join Dr. Sri to discuss the three cornerstones of a thriving family: a strong spiritual life, a loving marriage relationship, and the formation of children. Learn how intentionality in family culture can significantly impact the faith, identity, and character of our children. Snippet from the Show The unity of husband and wife in marriage is an icon of God. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.
Fr. Mike reveals Solomon's plan of leadership, and how he is aiming to unite the people. He also foreshadows the importance of the temple as a place where Israel can go to worship God as one people. Today's readings are 1 Kings 4, 2 Chronicles 6, and Psalm 65. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike reads the story of Solomon's greatest action as king: building a temple for the Lord, showing us how important it is to give glory to the Lord for all he's done for us. He is learning from his father's mistakes, but this story will sadly conclude the greatest moments of his life. Today's readings are 1 Kings 3, 2 Chronicles 4-5, and Psalm 64. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike looks into David's last words to his son Solomon and explains why it could have been hard for him to take David's advice. He also points out the important role of the mother of the king, and how this will foreshadow the role of Mary in the New Testament. Today's readings are 1 Kings 2, 2 Chronicles 2-3, and Psalm 62. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike starts to unpack the character of Solomon and explains how we can see the beginning of his downfall in today's readings. Although Solomon has been blessed with wisdom, he lacks obedience, which is much more important in maintaining a relationship with God. Today's readings are 1 Kings 1, 2 Chronicles 1, and Psalm 43. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
What does real love look like? Jeff explores Pope Leo XIV's inaugural message that emphasizes the importance of love in today's world. Jeff discusses the different Greek words for love—Phileo, Storge, Eros, and Agape—and highlights the profound impact of Agape love. He reflects on 1 Corinthians 13 to bring out the biblical understanding of love and connects it to our everyday relationships. Snippet from the Show True love rises above problems, conflict, and everything that divides us. Email us with comments or questions at thejeffcavinsshow@ascensionpress.com. Text “jeffcavins” to 33-777 to subscribe and get Jeff's shownotes delivered straight to your email! Or visit https://media.ascensionpress.com/?s=&page=2&category%5B0%5D=Ascension%20Podcasts&category%5B1%5D=The%20Jeff%20Cavins%20Show for full shownotes!
Fr. Mike uses the readings today to ask the question, how can we love the Lord joyfully, and with our whole hearts? In scripture today we see David succeed in this, while his son Solomon is divided in his love of God. Fr. Mike also explains why David was seeking his own power when taking the census in 2 Samuel, and how he fell subject to the evil one's tempting. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 24, 1 Chronicles 29, and Psalm 30. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
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 cares, and He comes. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at https://www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour October 20 - Detroit, MI October 21 - Sugar Land, TX October 22 - Cedar Park, TX October 23 - Fort Worth, TX
Fr. Mike touches on one of his favorite bible stories about David's mighty men and discusses his attitude in old age. At the end of his life, David chooses not to dwell on his mistakes, but to recognize the people around him and the blessings he received, which helped him accomplish what God was calling him to do. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 23, 1 Chronicles 28, and Psalm 42. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Mike Gormley and Dave VanVickle talk about reviving the diaconate. They discuss how deacons are not just “married priests” but that they have different yet important roles. They also talk about the origin of the diaconate, how the role has evolved through the ages, and share their raw thoughts on the diaconate. Snippet from the Show “I'm grateful for the diaconate because I've always seen it as a part of the way the Church has ministered over the centuries, the way the Apostolic Church saw a need to fulfill and I think also the purpose of the Cross of Jesus Christ is to keep us in mind that our job is to be a sacrifice for other people.” We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
Fr. Mike reflects on the significance behind David's prayer of thanksgiving at the end of his life. There's something so moving about David's gratitude with God as he acknowledges his brokenness and victories throughout his life. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 22, 1 Chronicles 28, and Psalm 42. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
How would the world be different if Catholics truly radiated the joy of the Gospel? Dr. Sri explores Pope Leo XIV's vision for a vibrant missionary Church marked by three key pillars: peace, justice, and truth. Snippet from the Show Pope Leo XIV envisions a Church that is truly missionary, a Church with arms wide open and going outward to the world. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.
In today's readings, Fr. Mike highlights David's humility in two instances: when David asked the Gibeonites how he could repair their relationship after they had been mistreated by Saul, and when David takes a step back from battle. He also explains the role of the gatekeepers as people who would be responsible for guarding the doors to the Temple. The readings are 2 Samuel 21, 1 Chronicles 26, and Psalm 40. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike points out how violence begets violence in the reading from 2 Samuel, and shows us how the sins we commit extend much further than ourselves. We also read about the Temple musicians in 1 Chronicles, we hear Psalm 39, written by one of those musicians, Jeduthun. Today's reading are 2 Samuel 20, 1 Chronicles 25, and Psalm 39. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
In today's readings, Fr. Mike points out how the loss of David's son overshadows everything else for a time. The readings are 2 Samuel 19, 1 Chronicles 24, and Psalm 38. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Today, we hear about the downfall of Absalom, and how David reacts to the news of his death. In Chronicles, we read about David changing some of the rules of worship, as he prepares for Temple worship. The readings are 2 Samuel 18, 1 Chronicles 23, and Psalm 37. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
What can we expect from Pope Leo XIV? Jeff Cavins discusses the recent election of Pope Leo XIV, exploring the excitement and implications of his leadership. Through a series of reflective questions, Jeff encourages listeners to pray for the Pope so that he may effectively lead the Church closer to Christ. Snippet from the Show Every Pope must rise to the call to lay down his life for Christ and the Church. Email us with comments or questions at thejeffcavinsshow@ascensionpress.com. Text “jeffcavins” to 33-777 to subscribe and get Jeff's shownotes delivered straight to your email! Or visit https://media.ascensionpress.com/?s=&page=2&category%5B0%5D=Ascension%20Podcasts&category%5B1%5D=The%20Jeff%20Cavins%20Show for full shownotes!
Fr. Mike explains the events of today's readings, breaking down Hushai's advice to Absalom, David's warning and charge of Solomon, and the theme of centralized worship. We all desire to be temples of the Holy Spirit, and we bring this prayer to God through today's episode. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 17, 1 Chronicles 22, and Psalm 36. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike talks about the horrible things that can happen when we turn away from God and stop asking him "what's the next step?" In today's readings we see David humbled and humiliated, Absalom revealing how devastating sin is, and the evil that comes from war. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 16, 1 Chronicles 21, and Psalm 15. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
What does it mean to be a priest today? In this episode, Gomer and Dave reflect on the beauty and burden of the priesthood—its spiritual power, real-world challenges, and the call to bold, Christ-centered leadership. With insights and wisdom from Pope Benedict, we explore how priests can renew their role as shepherds—and how we, as laypeople, can support them in their mission. Snippet from the Show If you're a priest and you learn and communicate the Faith, your parish is going to grow. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
Fr. Mike focuses on trust today, specifically trusting God in difficult times. Like David, we need to learn to trust God in the midst of the battle, rather than waiting until the batter is over. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 15, 1 Chronicles 19-20, and Psalm 3. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
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 Clears": https://ascensionpress.com/products/when-the-white-smoke-clears-a-guide-to-the-early-days-of-pope-leo-xiv?kx=03d8RdkdWYsj7Js0fI-L2sXIJR08xnuhKbFd2znlNmDo1V-4EAF588SwY55rxnO.TcpZhH Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at https://www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour! May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT] May 22 - Nashville, TN
What can we learn from Pope Leo XIV's first five days? Dr. Sri reflects on the Pope's inaugural days and shares 6 key lessons from the Pope's early messages and homilies that we can all learn from and apply to our own spiritual lives. Snippet from the Show Pope Leo XIV introduced a core framework for understanding salvation—Jesus as the gift and the path. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.
Fr. Mike reflects on the story of David and Absalom, and points out the lack of forgiveness and repentance on both men's part. God forgives us no matter what, but without us mirroring that forgiveness, rebellion can easily rise up. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 14, 1 Chronicles 18, and Psalm 14. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike preaches hope for the future of those with wounded hearts as we read the stories of Tamar, Amnon, and David. No matter what's in your past - things you've done or things that have been done to you - there is abundant hope for your future because God desires to make you whole. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 13, 1 Chronicles 17, and Psalm 35. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike touches on the sins of David, and how we can see ourselves in these fallen characters in scripture. God desires a relationship with us free from sin, and although it may be painful, he brings these things into the light not out of anger, but out of love. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 12, 1 Chronicles 16, and Psalm 51. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike breaks down David's tragic downfall as he commits adultery with Bathsheba and kills her husband, Uriah the Hittite. We learn that David's road to grave sin began with small acts of disobedience and selfishness. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 11, 1 Chronicles 14-15, and Psalm 32. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Habemus Papam! Jeff celebrates the historic announcement of Pope Leo XIV, the first Pope from the United States. Jeff shares his initial reaction, the significance of this appointment, and the powerful connection to Pope Leo XIII. Join us in celebrating and praying for our new Holy Father! Snippet from the Show Lord Jesus, we thank you so much for the new Pope. We thank you that you have given us a father. You have given us a leader. Email us with comments or questions at thejeffcavinsshow@ascensionpress.com. Text “jeffcavins” to 33-777 to subscribe and get Jeff's shownotes delivered straight to your email! Or visit https://media.ascensionpress.com/?s=&page=2&category%5B0%5D=Ascension%20Podcasts&category%5B1%5D=The%20Jeff%20Cavins%20Show for full shownotes!
As we continue to read about how King David expands his kingdom, Fr. Mike points out the mighty men of valor, who were men of great courage, honor and excellence that fought in Israel's battles. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 10, 1 Chronicles 13, and Psalm 31. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
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-condemnation. Tickets are on sale now for Fr. Mike Schmitz's Parables Tour at https://www.AscensionPress.com/FrMikeTour! May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT] May 22 - Nashville, TN
Fr. Mike draws our attention to David's kindness towards the house of Saul, including Jonathan's lame son Mephibosheth. We learn that even though Saul persecuted David, David continued to honor his descendants. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 9, 1 Chronicles 12, and Psalm 28. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike emphasizes how King David's victories in battle are part of his calling to establish Israel as a kingdom. He also reminds us that the recapitulation of the events we read about 1 Chronicles 10-11, is not repetitive, it served a specific purpose for the people of Israel. Today we read 2 Samuel 8, 1 Chronicles 10-11 and Psalm 60. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike highlights the moment God makes a covenant with David, promising him an everlasting dynasty, but reserving the building of the Temple to David's son Solomon. He also teaches us how 2 Samuel 7 foreshadows the fact that the Blessed Mother is the new Ark of the Covenant. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 6-7, 1 Chronicles 9, and Psalm 89. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Today we read about the moment David is made king over all Israel. Fr. Mike reveals that as David begins his rule, he has both strengths and weaknesses. Today we read 2 Samuel 5, 1 Chronicles 7-8, and Psalm 27. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike highlights the importance of David's reaction to the death of Ish-bosheth, Saul's son. Today we read 2 Samuel 4, 1 Chronicles 5-6, and Psalm 26. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
In today's readings, we hear about the death of Abner, and Fr. Mike points out how David publicly mourns Abner, and instructs his people to do the same. The readings are 2 Samuel 3, 1 Chronicles 3-4, and Psalm 25. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
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 https://www.AscensionPress.com/FrMike... May 19 - Washington, D.C. May 20 - Philadelphia, PA May 21 - Cincinnati, OH [SOLD OUT] May 22 - Nashville, TN Join Fr. Mike live for an unforgettable event as he unpacks the parables of Jesus. This is your chance to experience his powerful message in person!
Fr. Mike talks about how revenge and violence can become a cycle that doesn't end until someone chooses to end it. He also points out how the genealogy in 1 Chronicles reflects the genealogy of Christ.The reading for today are 2 Samuel 2, 1 Chronicles 2, and Psalm 24. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Today we begin two new books as we read 2 Samuel 1, 1 Chronicles 1, and Psalm 13. Fr. Mike shows us how nothing in scripture is wasted space, and also points out how, through God's grace, we can move past the things that have hurt us. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
In the last chapters of 1 Samuel, Fr. Mike focuses on David's wisdom in battle through his prayer and ability to unite the people of Israel. He also touches on Psalm 18 and how wonderful things can happen once we allow ourselves to be loved by God. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 29-31 and Psalm 18. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike reflects on King Saul's despair in the face of trial, and how he seeks other means of comfort when he feels like God has abandoned him. God never abandons us, especially in the midst of danger. Fr. Mike invites us to place our trust in God's promise, instead of resorting to sinful acts. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 27-28 and Psalm 34. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
Fr. Mike reveals how David exemplifies the virtues of reverence and faithfulness. David walks both as a man of faith and as a fallen son of God, but we continue to walk with him because we too are striving for a life with Christ. Today's readings are 1 Samuel 26 and Psalm 56. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.