Podcasts about catholic faith

Fr. Mike shortly touches on David's honest prayer in Psalm 109 before diving into the unending love God has for his people. As we continue to journey through our readings, we will begin to see the words of the prophets come to fruition as those who return to the Lord in faith will experience his undying love and forgiveness, despite their unfaithfulness. Today's readings are 2 Kings 9, Hosea 11-14, and Psalm 109. 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.

We continue our examination of the sacrament of Confirmation, specifically the celebration and effects of the sacrament of Confirmation. Fr. Mike explores the different elements of the rite of Confirmation and the ways in which Confirmation increases and deepens our baptismal graces. He emphasizes, in particular, the special strength of the Holy Spirit that we receive to spread and defend the Faith by our words and actions. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1297-1305. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

To follow Christ, St. Paul was called to imitate Our Lord in every facet of his apostolate. And while he may not have known the abundant fruits of his labor in this life, we know and revere the results of his efforts. Moreover, St. Paul reminds us that the task of winning souls for Christ is an arduous one, but also one that will be rewarded in due course through God's grace.

Fr. Mike explains why all of us are called to listen to the prophets of the Old Testament, and why their role is so important in salvation history. Each of us is building some kind of life and picture of eternity: the question we must ask ourselves is are we building it with God or against him? Today's readings are 2 Kings 8, Hosea 8-10, and Psalm 108. 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.

Together, with Fr. Mike, we continue our examination of the sacrament of Confirmation, specifically the two Traditions and different signs of Confirmation. Fr. Mike unpacks the differences in the two Traditions, East and West, in the celebration of Confirmation. He also explores the different signs that oil and anointing in the sacrament of Confirmation can signify. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1290-1296. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Mike Gormley and Dave VanVickle answer questions from listeners, discuss the Biblical evidence behind purgatory and the best logical responses to support it. They also explain the acolyte and their role in the celebration of the Holy Mass. Snippet from the Show “What is Purgatory? It is the application of the merits of Jesus Christ to my soul so that even my desires are in union with God's will for my life.” 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

As Catholics, we are called to not only accept the tenets of the Catholic Faith, but to approach all facets of our lives with the mind of the Church. This is imperative when it comes to Holy Communion. As the greatest sacrament that God has offered to us, we must not presume that we are simply entitled to it nor that we can ever “earn” it. Rather, in keeping with mind of the Church, we should always appreciate that it is a great gift bestowed upon us by God out of His infinite love for us.

CULTIVATING SAINTS, SAGES, AND STATESMEN THROUGH THE GREAT TRADITION OF CHRISTENDOMIn this episode, we cover an incredible event that took place in AD 363: an apostate Roman Emperor who was trying to revive paganism attempted to rebuild the "Third Temple" in Jerusalem. Why? So he could disprove Christ's divinity, and seduce the Jews into eventually becoming pagans. His plot was eerily similar to how most Church Fathers say Antichrist will behave toward Christians and Jews in the end times.But divine intervention stopped him. Fire, explosions from the ground, storms, the sign of the cross in the sky and on the garments of the workers: these and other signs reported by multiple ancient accounts (both pagan and Christian) caused such great fear among the pagans and Jews involved in the project that it was abandoned.Many converted to the Catholic Faith as a result.Check out Becoming Catholic # 57 for all the quotes in the episode, and their sources: https://eternalchristendom.com/becoming-catholic/articles/number-57/ VISIT OUR WEBSITEhttps://eternalchristendom.com/BECOME A PATRON OF THE GREAT TRADITIONHelp us continue to dig into the Great Tradition; produce beautiful, substantive content; and gift these treasures to cultural orphans around the world for free: https://eternalchristendom.com/become-a-patron/EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS AT ETERNAL CHRISTENDOM BOOKSTOREhttps://eternalchristendom.com/bookstore/CONNECT ON SOCIAL MEDIAX: https://twitter.com/JoshuaTCharlesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/joshuatcharles/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshuatcharles/DIVE DEEPER Check out Eternal Christendom's "Becoming Catholic," where you'll find hundreds of thousands of words of free content (as big as the Bible!) in the form of Articles, Quote Archives, and Study Banks to help you become, remain, and deepen your life as a Catholic:https://eternalchristendom.com/becoming-catholic/EPISODE CHAPTERS00:00 - Introduction08:26 - Roadmap09:14 - Divine Intervention? Or Natural Explanation?13:09 - Emperor Julian the Apostate (Pagan)18:06 - Ammianus Marcellinus (Pagan)19:57 - St. Ephrem the Syrian (Christian)24:08 - St. Gregory Nazianzus (Christian)33:33 - St. Ambrose of Milan (Christian)34:45 - St. Jerome (Christian)37:09 - Rufinus of Aquileia (Christian)41:21 - St. Cyril of Jerusalem on Antichrist and the Temple (Christian)44:33 - St. John Chrysostom (Christian)55:06 - Philostorgius (Christian)59:18 - Socrates of Constantinople (Christian)1:03:46 - Theodoret of Cyrus (Christian)1:07:27 - Sozomen (Christian)1:13:55 - St. Isidore of Seville (Christian)1:17:15 - ConclusionCHECK US OUT ON APPLE AND SPOTIFY

Fr. Mike emphasizes the importance of knowing God and knowing his love for us as we read about the devastation of war and the lack of faith displayed by Israel. Without a deeper knowledge of God, not only can we struggle for hope in God's plan, but we can also fall into the temptation of losing faith in him altogether. Today's readings are 2 Kings 6-7, Hosea 4-7, and Psalm 103. 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.

We begin our examination of the sacrament of Confirmation. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the reception of Confirmation is necessary for the completion and strengthening of baptismal grace. He also highlights the vital importance of the reception of Confirmation because it gives us the power to be a witness to God's grace on earth, just as the Apostles received that same power at Pentecost. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1285-1289. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

God is not overwhelmed by our failures. Dr. Sri explains how we can avoid the danger of perfectionism and self-reliance as we strive to live a virtuous life. Snippet from the Show God uses those moments of failure to help us grow in more profound ways. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

Fr. Mike takes a break from 2 Chronicles to enter into the book of Hosea. We learn that Hosea was a prophet called to not only witness to God's words, but to his actions as well. Fr. Mike also touches on hope in times of intense healing, and how essential this virtue is when striving to live a life for Christ. Today's readings are 2 Kings 5, Hosea 1-3, and Psalm 101. 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 this summary of the Church's teachings on Baptism, the Catechism relays the heart of the sacrament. If you needed to quickly explain Baptism to someone on the street—Fr. Mike says—this would be your guide. Fr. Mike hones in on the fact that Baptism is “a grace and a gift of God that does not presuppose any human merit.” Today's readings are paragraphs 1275-1284. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

St. Peter had a great love for Our Lord, though we know from Scripture that he had an intemperate soul until Christ calmed it. His call for mutual charity or, to put it another way, supernatural friendship, is a reminder that we are called to look beyond our neighbors' faults to find the good in them. And at the same time, we hope they will see the same in us.

Fr. Mike talks about how we see both an abundance of faith, and a great lack of faith in our readings today. While the widow Elisha visits shows us a beautiful example of walking in faith, king Ahaz fails to repent as he falls deeper into sin. Today's readings are 2 Kings 4, 2 Chronicles 28, and Psalm 127. 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.

The Catechism shows us how Baptism unites the Church as a “People of God of the New Covenant” and goes so far as to say that “Baptism constitutes the foundation of communion among all Christians.” We all belong to Jesus, together. Fr. Mike highlights the fact that with the gift of unity in Baptism comes real responsibility. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1267-1274. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

In these dark times, we must fight evil with the most powerful weapons we have.The Rosary is foremost among them.Join the Great Rosary Campaign today at: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com.The Great Rosary Campaign is a yearlong mission for the conversion of cultural leaders. We will announce a weekly call to pray every Sunday for specific fallen-away Catholics and non-Catholics.THIS WEEK of the Great Rosary Campaign, in light of his declining health, we are praying for the conversion of John MacArthur, the well-known evangelical pastor and preacher. Mr. MacArthur has stood up for many good things. I greatly admired him for much of my early life. But he has also gravely misrepresented the Catholic Faith, and taught people falsehoods about it.The SUGGESTED PENANCE this week is a Holy Hour (Adoration) before the Blessed Eucharist, the communion we hope and pray for John MacArthur.Countless Saints and Popes have told us that the Rosary is incredibly powerful for three things in particular:Keeping the FaithMoral renovationConversions of non-CatholicsThe Great Rosary Campaign is also based on several biblical themes and principles.First, PRAY FOR OUR BRETHREN. “Pray for one another…” (Jas. 5:16). “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).Second, PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:43-44).Third, PRAY FOR ALL MEN, PARTICULARLY LEADERS AND THOSE IN AUTHORITY. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, or kings and all who are in high positions…” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).Fourth, GOING INTO BATTLE WITH THE ARK. When the ancient Israelites came to Jericho, God didn't tell them to besiege the city. Instead, He told them to march around it with the Ark of the Covenant seven times, and on the seventh the walls would fall. We will now "march" in prayer for seven days with the New Ark of the Covenant, Our Lady, through the Rosary. We pray in hope that on the seventh day, a day especially devoted to Our Lady (Saturday), extraordinary graces of conversion will be given to those we are praying for.Fifth, EVANGELISM AND APOLOGETICS = LOVE + ARGUMENTS + PRAYER + PENANCE. Ultimately it is God who reveals Himself to a soul, and empowers them to say "yes" to Him by His grace. He chooses to use us, but He does not have to. We must remember that as we evangelize and defend the Faith, our arguments will be fruitless unless informed by love (charity), and reinforced by prayer and penance.Sixth, RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL. “Do not return evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but on the contrary bless, for to this you have been called, that you may obtain a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).Sign up to take part in the Great Rosary Campaign today: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com

Fr. Mike zeroes in on how Uzziah's prideful desire to worship God in his own way led to his tragic death. We are reminded once again how easily the kings over Judea strayed away from God after achieving greatness. Today's readings are 2 Kings 3, 2 Chronicles 26-27, and Psalm 72. 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.

Baptism has profound effects upon the baptized: “purification from sins and new birth in the Holy Spirit.” The Catechism shows us that the graces of Baptism are so deep that—for the newly baptized—“nothing remains that would impede their entry into the Kingdom of God.” Fr. Mike relates to us the hard teaching that we are born mere beloved creatures of God—but through Baptism, we become adopted sons and daughters of God. Today's readings are paragraphs 1262-1266. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike breaks down the moment Elijah is taken up to heaven, and the miracle Elisha performs at the spring. In 2 Chronicles, we also read about how king Amaziah suddenly turned his heart away from God by worshipping idols. Today's readings are 2 Kings 2, 2 Chronicles 25, and Psalm 70. 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.

“Baptism is the sacrament of faith.” The Catechism explains to us who can baptize as well as why we need Baptism for eternal life. It also explains to us what happens when people die without the opportunity for Baptism. Fr. Mike addresses our “what about” questions concerning Baptism. Most especially, Fr. Mike addresses the destination of those who will never have the opportunity to hear the Gospel or be baptized. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1253-1261. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Today in the Catholic Mass Series, we explore what it means to participate in the liturgy. Does active participation mean singing aloud and following the Missal, or does it mean something deeper? Father unpacks the original meaning of the phrase, “Active Participation,” by tracing its roots to Pope St. Pius X. He also explains how participation has developed—and sometimes been misunderstood—in recent decades. From the beauty of congregational chant to the quiet devotion of the Rosary, how are the faithful meant to engage in the Church's public worship? True participation, we shall see, is interior first—expressed in reverent, unified worship. See all the episodes, and download resources: https://sspxpodcast.com/mass We'd love your feedback on this series! podcast@sspx.org – – – – – – View this episode on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/GuFPZ9AC1Mw?si=ZIurHwYFCO2uLswk  – – – – – – – The Society of Saint Pius X offers this series and all of its content free of charge. If you are able to offer a one time or a small monthly recurring donation, it will assist us greatly in continuing to provide these videos for the good of the Church and Catholic Tradition. Please Support this Apostolate with 1-time or Monthly Donation >> – – – – – – – Explore more: Subscribe to this Podcast to receive this and all our audio episodes Subscribe to the SSPX YouTube channel for video versions of our podcast series and Sermons FSSPX News Website: https://fsspx.news Visit the US District website: https://sspx.org/ – – – – – What is the SSPX Podcast? The SSPX Podcast is produced by Angelus Press, which has as its mission the fortification of traditional Catholics so that they can defend the Faith, and reaching out to those who have not yet found Tradition.  – – – – – – What is the SSPX? The main goal of the Society of Saint Pius X is to preserve the Catholic Faith in its fullness and purity, to teach its truths, and to diffuse its virtues, especially through the Roman Catholic priesthood. Authentic spiritual life, the sacraments, and the traditional liturgy are its primary means of bringing this life of grace to souls. Although the traditional Latin Mass is the most visible and public expression of the work of the Society, we are committed to defending Catholic Tradition in its entirety: all of Catholic doctrine and morals as the Church has always defended them. What people need is the Catholic Faith, without compromise, with all the truth and beauty which accompanies it. https://sspx.org

Fr. Mike looks at Joash's downfall and disobedience after the death of Jehoida. We learn how important it is to have good mentors in our lives who keep us grounded in the faith. Fr. Mike also emphasizes the significance of Psalm 69 and how to properly interpret it. Today's readings are 2 Kings 1, 2 Chronicles 24, and Psalm 69. 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.

Put simply, “[e]very person not yet baptized and only such a person is able to be baptized.” The Catechism explains to us the purpose of Baptism for both adults and infants. Fr. Mike doubles down and makes sure we understand that Baptism is for everyone. God wills Baptism for all people. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1246-1252. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Our Lord draws closest to us, spiritually and materially, in the Eucharist. How do we respond to this great gift, particularly after receiving Holy Communion? Do we continue to remember that Our Lord is within us, even after Mass, or do we get distracted immediately by worldly concerns? While Our Lord will always desire to be close to us, we must desire to be close to Him as well; we must return His love

Fr. Mike explains how Athaliah's death, Jehoiada's covenant, and the crowning of Joash as king was pivotal for the restoration of the Temple. Today's readings are 1 Kings 22, 2 Chronicles 23, and Song of Solomon 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.

Together with Fr. Mike, we continue our examination of the sacrament of Baptism, specifically the mystagogy of the rite of Baptism. The Catechism explains each and every element of the Baptismal rite, from the Sign of the Cross to the baptismal water. Fr. Mike concludes with a reflection on Baptism as the beginning of our sacramental journey and how we are called to walk as children of God throughout our lives after our Baptism. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1234-1245. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

How do you handle your own wounds or the wounds of others? Mike Gormley and Dave VanVickle open up about childhood pain, suffering, and the path to healing. Through personal stories and shared experiences, they explore the tools needed to move forward and the deep healing that comes when we bring our wounds to the Lord. Snippet from the Show “If you have a wound like that, and you don't bring it to the healer, you don't bring it to the Divine Physician, then it is going to infect.” 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

Former Foursquare pastor Kenny Burchard concludes his discussion of fifteen key commonalities between the beliefs and practices of Catholicism and Pentecostalism, as a way of hopefully having more fruitful conversations about the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of Christians. In our final episode of the series, Kenny talks to Matt Swaim and Ken Hensley about five more elements common to Catholics and Pentecostals. So far, we've discussed: 1. Belief in the manifest, or "real" presence of God in worship 2. Ongoing spiritual gifts, miracles, and signs 3. Charisms expressed through unique callings 4. God's word spoken, read, preached, and alive 5. Impartation through the laying on of hands 6. Apostolic authority and anointing 7. Holy places, objects, and sacraments as channels of grace 8. Dreams, visions, and mystical encounters 9. Spiritual warfare and real deliverance 10. Disciplines that lead to practical holiness And in this episode, we discuss: 11. Fresh graces that follow initial conversion 12. The sobering reality of apostasy—and the call to perseverance 13. Breakthrough as the fruit of persistent, faithful prayer 14. Embodied worship: kneeling, lifting hands, incense, anointing with oil, song 15. A share in the priestly, prophetic, and kingly mission of Christ This discussion continues in the new book available Summer 2025 from The Coming Home Network, "Journeys Home 3: Pentecostals and Charismatics," which features thirteen conversion stories from people who come from this spiritual tradition. Find out more at https://www.chnetwork.org/jh3. Also mentioned was the Deep in History talk by Paul Thigpen, The Road From Topeka to Rome: How the Pentecostal Movement Has Brought Millions Closer to the Catholic Faith. Watch it for free here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7H7qJKD1dU&t More stories and resources: https://www.chnetwork.org Our Online Community: https://www.chnetwork.org/community Support our work: https://www.chnetwork.org/compass

On Pentecost, the faithful commemorate the birthday of the Church. Yet it is also a time to reflect on the coming of the Paraclete, the Holy Ghost, and the gifts He bestows upon the faithful. What these gifts are and what they can do for us in our everyday lives is the topic of this sermon.

Today we read about Elijah's discouragement after fleeing from Jezebel, and how God tells him to "arise and eat" to strengthen him for the journey ahead. Fr. Mike points out how God calls us to draw strength for the journey as well, even at the end of our earthly lives. The readings are 1 Kings 19-20, 2 Chronicles 20, and Song of Solomon 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.

We continue our examination of the Sacrament of Baptism, specifically how we celebrate the sacrament and the different elements that must always be present in Baptism. Fr. Mike emphasizes that while infant Baptism has become the “form in which this sacrament is usually celebrated,” post-baptismal formation and instruction is necessary in order for the full flowering of the graces received in the Sacrament of Baptism. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1229-1233. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Why does the Chuch celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi? Dr. Sri delves into the origins and meaning of the Feast of Corpus Christi, underscoring the necessity of faith and trust in understanding the mystery of the Eucharist. Snippet from the Show  "Faith will tell us Christ is present when our human senses fail". _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

Today we read about Elijah's discouragement after fleeing from Jezebel, and how God tells him to "arise and eat" to strengthen him for the journey ahead. Fr. Mike points out how God calls us to draw strength for the journey as well, even at the end of our earthly lives. The readings are 1 Kings 19-20, 2 Chronicles 20, and Song of Solomon 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.

Together, with Fr. Mike, we continue our examination of the sacrament of Baptism. Fr. Mike emphasizes that each and every one of the Old Covenant prefigurations are fulfilled in Christ Jesus. He also unpacks Christ's own Baptism in the Jordan, explaining that when Christ is baptized by John the Baptist, he brings the “mess of humanity” into the Jordan with him and makes the waters of Baptism holy. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1223-1228. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Today, we are introduced to the prophet Elijah, who repeatedly responds to God's invitations with faith. The readings are 1 Kings 17-18, 2 Chronicles 18-19, and Song of Solomon 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.

Together, we begin the chapter on the sacraments of initiation, specifically the section on the sacrament of Baptism. Fr. Mike unpacks the different names that the Church employs when discussing Baptism, such as the “washing of regeneration and renewal” and “enlightenment.” He concludes with a reflection on the prefigurations of Baptism in the Old Covenant. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1210-1222. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike connects today's reading from Songs to the teachings of St. John Paul's Theology of the Body. He also points out how helpful it is to track the timelines of the kings of Israel and Judah as we read from Kings and Chronicles simultaneously. The readings are 1 Kings 15-16, 2 Chronicles 16-17, and Song of Solomon 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.

Together, with Fr. Mike, we arrive at the conclusion and “nugget day” for the section on liturgy and culture. Fr. Mike reiterates the importance of the fact that the Church does not abolish culture, but redeems and fulfills it. He also emphasizes that even though the Church welcomes liturgical diversity, there are still some things that are incompatible with the Faith and, therefore, unable to be incorporated into Catholic liturgy. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1204-1209. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike points out the results of what happened to the kings who built idols, and what happened to the kings who tore them down. He encourages us to tear down the idols we've built up in our own lives by trusting God with our first fruits. Today's readings are 1 Kings 14, 2 Chronicles 14-15, and Song of Solomon 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.

Did you know there is more than one liturgical rite in the Catholic Church? Fr. Mike reviews the different liturgical Traditions that are part of the Catholic Church. All of the different rites are rooted in the same mission of Christ, reminding us that the diversity of liturgical Traditions does not take away from the unity of the Faith. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1200-1203. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike touches on King Rehobo'am's last acts and the rise of his son, Abi′jah. He also explains how the mistakes of Israel's leaders show the importance of faith over success. Today's readings are 1 Kings 13, 2 Chronicles 12-13, and Song of Solomon 2. 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 “nugget day”, we review the main takeaways from our readings on the liturgy. Fr. Mike invites us to remember that every time we participate in the liturgy, we are participating in the heavenly worship of the Father. We also learn that in times of discouragement, we can unite ourselves to Christ our high priest by praying the Liturgy of the Hours. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1187-1199. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike explains why it's better to seek counsel from those who don't necessarily always agree with us, using the experience of Rehobo′am as an example. He also touches on the failed leadership of Jerobo′am as he leads his people into false places of worship and idolatry. Today's readings are 1 Kings 12, 2 Chronicles 10-11, and Song of Solomon 1. 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.

Welcome to the Divided Kingdom period! Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to explain the critical information needed to understand the rest of our biblical readings. They talk about Solomon's alliances with foreign nations, the growth of a civil war, and the incredible significance of 1 Kings 12:16. 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.

Where is the liturgy celebrated? The Catechism offers us overarching principles as well as specific details about the spaces in which the liturgy is celebrated. Fr. Mike highlights the importance of endowing dignity and respect to these physical spaces because they are sacred places of encounter with our Lord. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1179-1186. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike finishes the gospel of Mark by reflecting on the death and resurrection of Christ. He also encourages us to reflect on the redemption of our own sins every time we see a crucifix and to return that same sacrificial love to God every day. Today's readings are Mark 15-16 and Psalm 22. 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 guides us through Jesus' warning of persecution to the people of Israel as we near the end of Mark's Gospel. He also touches on how Jesus' behavior in the Garden of Gethsemane should serve as an example to us, and explains why Judas' betrayal was so heartbreaking. Today's readings are Mark 13-14 and Psalm 68.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.