Podcasts about usccb

The Catechism has shown us how the common good begins with the good of the individual. It further shows us that each individual can participate in the pursuit of the common good for all—and that this participation is not optional, but an obligation. Fr. Mike explains the nature of this obligation in quite simple terms: “see a need, fill a need.” Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1913-1927. 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.

The Catechism sets up a pair of definitions for us that, at first glance, appear circular, but upon close examination, reveal profound interdependence: “The good of each individual is necessarily related to the common good, which in turn can be defined only in reference to the human person.” Fr. Mike uses a fascinating thought experiment to illustrate where the common good originates: you. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1905-1912. 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.

The Catechism shows us that, in order for any good in society to last and flourish, legitimate authority must be instituted and respected by all. Furthermore, it is our duty as those under authority to obey those invested with authority. Fr. Mike acknowledges that most of us resist authority, but he bolsters the Catechism's claim that legitimate authority in society is good and necessary. “Anarchy doesn't work.” Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1897-1904. 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.

Before we can see outward changes for the good in society, there must be inward conversion in the hearts of its members, so says the Catechism. Fr. Mike highlights the fact that societies are made up of people with both body and soul—and the soul is often overlooked. Because we are broken, there is a “permanent need” for our conversion, and any society that fails to take this into account is doomed to do violence to human dignity. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1886-1896. 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.

Man is made for communion. God created man in his triune image, making us naturally social and communal beings. We learn that various societies weave us together: the family, the state, our professions, and recreational activities, among others. Fr. Mike explains how the Church promotes the principle of subsidiarity to protect the goodness of the various levels of society as each level pursues the common good. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1877-1885. 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.

We close the section on human dignity and goodness by learning how sin engenders vice. Our readings today discuss the proliferation of sin and how capital sins, in particular, lead to vices that can become rooted in a person or society. Fr. Mike reminds us that while sin is a personal act, it is also possible for us to cooperate in and encourage the sins of others. This can lead to the formation of “structures of sin” that lead others down the path of evil and contribute to establishing “social sins.” Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1865-1876. 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.

We can consider the variety of sins in light of their gravity or seriousness. In doing so, we see that some sins weaken charity while others destroy it. The first we call venial sins, the second mortal. Our very freedom makes possible this rejection of God. Yet, God's mercy has no limits. God can and will forgive every sin of which we repent. Fr. Mike invites all listeners to seek this forgiveness and go to Confession. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1854-1864. 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.

Jesus reveals God's offer of loving mercy to sinners. To accept this gift, we must identify and admit our failings. Recognizing our sins enables us to further cooperate in our redemption. Sin can be understood and categorized in several ways, but every sin wounds our nature and damages our relationships with God and neighbor. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1846-1853. 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.

As we end our exploration of the virtues, we learn about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. These gifts perfect our virtues and increase our ability to respond to God's guidance and inspiration. The fruits of the Holy Spirit perfect us, are signs of a life lived in the Spirit, and are “the first fruits of eternal glory,” as the Catechism tells us. Our cooperation with the Holy Spirit sustains and perfects our moral life, enabling us to live a more full and joyful life. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1830-1845. 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.

The greatest of all the theological virtues is charity. Fr. Mike explains that charity, or love, is to love God above all things for his own sake and to love our neighbor as ourselves. This includes loving our enemies and also obeying God's commandments, two actions that are not always easy. Most importantly, today's readings remind us that true charity is not loving the Father as servants in fear or as mercenaries looking for a reward but rather as his beloved children responding to him who "first loved us." Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1822-1829. 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.

A desire for the Kingdom of heaven and eternal life is at the heart of the virtue of hope. Fr. Mike breaks down the definition of the theological virtue of hope and explains how it protects us from discouragement and selfishness. By placing our trust in Christ's promises, we are free to love the people around us and endure all circumstances because we know that God is faithful. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1817-1821. 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.

The origin, motive, and object of the theological virtues are God himself. Today, we dive into the theological virtues, beginning with the virtue of Faith. Fr. Mike unpacks the meaning and purpose of the virtue of Faith and emphasizes that Faith is deeply rooted in trust in God. Lastly, Fr. Mike reminds us that Faith should be lived out along with Hope, and Love, and also professed to those who do know yet know God. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1812-1816. 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.

A virtuous person is someone who consistently chooses the good. Fr. Mike unpacks the four human or cardinal virtues that are essential in helping us become more like Jesus: prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. We learn that these four virtues make possible “ease, self-mastery, and joy in leading a morally good life.” Today's Catechism readings are paragraphs 1803-1811. 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.

It is possible for our moral conscience to remain in ignorance for a variety of reasons. Fr. Mike delves into the sources of errors of judgment in moral conduct and how habitual sin blinds our conscience. As we wrap up this article, Fr. Mike reminds us that a well-formed conscience sets us free and gives us the power to do what we ought. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1790-1802. 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.

This week the Senate passed H.R. 8404, the “Respect for Marriage Act.” Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Committee for Religious Liberty, and Bishop Robert Barron of Winona-Rochester, chairman of the USCCB's Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life, and Youth, issued a joint letter and analysis urging Congress to oppose the measure. Read the press release. The USCCB Committee on Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs issued a statement emphasizing its recommitment to relationship with the Jewish committee. Read the press release. Pope Francis reminded the faithful that the Lord is always present and to look for signs of God's nearness this Advent. Watch the video.

On Ash Wednesday Churches in the United States will take a special collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe. We were joined by Jennifer Healy, Director for Aid to the Church in Central and Eastern Europe, to tell us more about the collection. Learn more about the collection at: https://www.usccb.org/committees/church-central-eastern-europe/collection-church-central-and-eastern-europe The Lenten season begins on Ash Wednesday, February 22nd. We discussed with Father Andrew Menke, Executive Director of the Secretariat of Divine Worship, how to best utilize this period of prayer, fasting and almsgiving in preparation for Easter. Find more Lenten resources here: https://www.usccb.org/prayer-worship/liturgical-year/lent Pope Francis called for prayer and peace in Nicaragua after Bishop Rolando Alvarez was imprisoned for criticizing the Ortega-Murillo regime. Last week, the USCCB welcomed expelled Nicaraguan Priest and Seminarians who were able to celebrate mass for the first time in six months. Please continue to pray for the People of Nicaragua.  Read more at: https://www.usccb.org/news/2023/pope-pained-nicaraguan-bishops-26-year-prison-sentence

Looking back three years ago this week, Pope Francis gave his “Urbi et Orbi” to an empty St. Peter's square during the Covid-19 pandemic. This message will be embedded in a satellite and launched into orbit around the Earth, where it will transmit the Holy Father's message every day. Read more at https://www.usccb.org/news/2023/popes... Holy Week begins next week, as well as the Jewish celebration of Passover. Chairman of USCCB's Committee on Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, Bishop David P. Talley joined the show to discuss the work of the bishops to combat antisemitism in the United States. Find more information at: https://www.usccb.org/committees/ecum... The Dicastery of Culture and the Dicastery for Integral Human Development released a joint statement rejecting the Doctrine of Discovery, a series of 15th-century papal bulls that were used to justify colonization of indigenous peoples. The statement came after a 2022 papal visit to Canada, during which Pope Francis visited indigenous communities and met with leaders. The statement renounces the Doctrine of Discovery, saying “the church acknowledges that these papal bulls did not adequately reflect the equal dignity and rights of indigenous peoples”. Read more at: https://www.usccb.org/committees/ecum...

Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the Archdiocese of the Military Services, USA, and president of the USCCB issued a statement in observance of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. https://www.usccb.org/news/2023/usccb-presidents-statement-observance-rev-martin-luther-king-jr-day-2023 Catholics across the country are observing a nationwide prayer vigil on Thursday, January 19 to Friday, January 20, 2023 and praying a novena to protect human life with “9 Days for Life.” https://www.respectlife.org/9-days-for-life January 18-25 is the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity has a history of over 100 years , in which Christians around the world have taken part in an octave of prayer for visible Christian unity. Watch the video introduction from Fr. Walter Kedjierski, Executive Director of the Secretariat for Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs. https://www.usccb.org/resources/introduction-2023-week-prayer-christian-unity Representatives of bishops' conferences from several countries, including the United States, met for the annual Holy Land Coordination, January 14-19, 2023. Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace represented the U.S. bishops. Read the communique from the delegation. https://www.usccb.org/news/2023/2023-holy-land-coordination-communique The annual blessing of livestock took place at the Vatican on January 17, 2023.

Together, with Fr. Mike, we unpack the formation of our conscience. Fr. Mike emphasizes that a well-formed conscience is one that is both “upright and truthful.” He also highlights the idea that a well-formed intellect is vital to having a well-formed conscience. We cannot just say something is either right or wrong, we have to understand why we think that. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1783-1789. 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 preparing for the observation of Labor Day in the United States on September 4, Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia, and chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, issued a statement calling for radical solidarity with working families. Read the 2023 Labor Day statement (also available in Spanish). Learn more USCCB's work on Economic Justice and Domestic Poverty. Each year on September 1, the Catholic Church commemorates the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. This day of prayer also marks the beginning of a month-long ecumenical awareness initiative known as the “Season of Creation,” which concludes on October 4 with the feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of ecology. The theme chosen for this year's Season of Creation is “Let Justice and Peace Flow,” and it calls on the faithful to reflect on the relationship between justice and creation. Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Archeparchy of Philadelphia, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, and Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford, chairman of the USCCB's Committee on International Justice and Peace issued a reflection: https://www.usccb.org/news/2023/laudato-si-20-pope-announces-new-document-ahead-season-creation. Pope Francis announced this week he would publish a follow-up document to his 2015 encyclical on the environment “Laudato Si'” on the October 4 feast of St. Francis of Assisi. Read the story from Catholic News Service in Rome.

Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), has appointed Bishop Joseph N. Perry, auxiliary bishop of Chicago, to serve as the next chairman of the USCCB's Ad Hoc Committee Against Racism. Read the pastoral letter against racism, Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love. https://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/racism/upload/open-wide-our-hearts.pdf Laudato Si' Week is an eight-day campaign held annually in May to mark the anniversary of Pope Francis' landmark encyclical on creation care. Find prayer and action resources to engage your community. https://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/environment/index.cfm Archbishop Broglio sent a special message for Memorial Day. Watch the video and pray for those who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Prayer: https://www.usccb.org/prayers/prayer-memorial-day-last-monday-may

The Catholic bishops of the United States are preparing to meet in Orlando, Florida for their spring plenary assembly. Agenda items include the upcoming Synod on Synodality, a new national pastoral plan for Hispanic ministry, a plan for the ongoing formation of priests, the 2025-2028 USCCB strategic plan, revisions to certain English liturgical texts, and more. Watch the plenary assembly either live or as video-on-demand at www.usccb.org. The bishops of Florida have appealed a planned execution. Catholic Current spoke with Krisanne Vaillancourt Murphy of the Catholic Mobilizing Network about alternatives to the death penalty. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the USCCB, asks for prayers as Pope Francis recovers from recent abdominal surgery.

Bishop Andrew Cozzens, chairman of the Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis, shares incredible stories of a pilot pilgrimage for the upcoming Eucharistic Congress. Following the bishops' overwhelming approval of the new national pastoral plan, Bishop Oscar Cantú talks with Catholic Current about strengthening Hispanic/Latino Ministry in parishes and dioceses. The bishops have voted to begin a process of consultation and eventual revision of the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Ministry. Forty-five years after the landmark pastoral letter on disabilities, the USCCB voted to begin drafting a new statement. Bishop Michael Burbidge, episcopal moderator of the National Catholic Partnership on Disability, shares his enthusiasm for the upcoming document. In his opening address to the bishops, the apostolic nuncio Archbishop Christophe Pierre exhorts the baptized to be “ambassadors for Christ.”

In May, Pope Francis created the Ecclesiastical Province of Las Vegas, comprised of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Las Vegas, and the suffragan dioceses of Reno and Salt Lake City. At the same time, he named Most Reverend George Leo Thomas, as the first Metropolitan Archbishop of Las Vegas. On June 19th, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, Archbishop Thomas received the pallium in Rome. Watch the CNS Rome video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L27V8k6tMqk&t=3s The Vatican Observatory resumed its biennial summer school program for young scientists around the world. Read the CNS Rome story: Rising stars: Vatican hosts astronomers of tomorrow for summer school. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QnnUx_ymYk&t=28s Beginning June 22, the feast of Sts. Thomas More and John Fisher, the USCCB invited Catholics to pray, reflect, and act to promote religious freedom. Visit the Religious Freedom Week website. Statement from the Chairman of the Committee on International Justice and Peace released a statement on religious persecution in Nicaragua in April. Read the statement. https://www.usccb.org/news/2023/us-bishops-international-justice-and-peace-chairman-ongoing-religious-persecution

Upon the anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford, chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, issued a statement in remembrance and support of nuclear arms control. Visit www.usccb.org/nuclear for more information and resources on the bishops' teachings related to nuclear disarmament. Pope Francis spoke about the observance of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30th. The USCCB's Anti-Trafficking Program aims to educate on the scourge of human trafficking as an offense against the fundamental dignity of the human person, to advocate for its end, and to provide training and technical assistance to support survivors. Learn more and get involved at https://www.usccb.org/topics/anti-trafficking-program. More than 28,600 young people and 60 bishops travelled from the United States to Lisbon, Portugal for World Youth Day. Follow the latest stories from the global celebration at https://www.usccb.org/newsroom.

Together, with Fr. Mike, we explore the moral conscience. Fr. Mike emphasizes that even though our intellect has been weakened by sin, we still have some sense, our conscience, that tells us that there is a right and wrong. He also emphasizes the difference between our conscience and our passions. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1776-1782. 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.

Released 2024.01.11 Catholic Current talks with Anne Ferreira of the USCCB Pro-Life secretariat about “9 Days for Life,” an annual novena for the protection of human life. Each day's intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life. The novena begins on January 16. Sign up at https://www.respectlife.org/9-days-signup

Released 2023.10.06 Pope Francis told the church's 21 new cardinals, including one born in the United States, that the key to evangelizing is to "cherish in our hearts the wonder and gratitude" of having heard the Gospel message and of knowing that they, like all Christians, still must grow in faith. Read the CNS story: Creating cardinals from 16 nations, pope asks them to join church 'symphony'. Watch the CNS video ”Cardinals for a Synodal Church”, an interview with Cardinal Prevost, and an interview with Cardinal Pierre. In Pope Francis' new document on the climate crisis, he urges everyone to "move beyond the mentality of appearing to be concerned" and to have "the courage needed to produce substantial changes." Catholic Current speaks with Metropolitan Archbishop Borys Gudziak, Chair of the Domestic Justice and Human Development Committee, about environmental concerns. Learn more about the USCCB's work to promote care for our common home at www.usccb.org/environment. Read the CNS Story: Pope, in document on climate crisis, criticizes science 'deniers.' Read Laudate Deum. Catholic Current speaks with Antonia Salzano Acutis, mother of Blessed Carlo Acutis who is patron of the National Eucharistic Revival. Learn about Eucharistic Miracles of the World – an initiative led by Carlo Acutis as a teenager. Pope Francis opened the assembly of the Synod of Bishops on October 4th, 2023, with a Mass in St. Peter's Square. Read the CNS story: Pope addresses fears around synod: 'Not a political gathering'. Watch videos from CNS Rome: Pope: The church has stopped to listen and Pope: Trust God, don't fear the synod. Learn more about the synod at https://www.usccb.org/synod and visit https://www.usccb.org/newsroom for the latest news on the Synod.

Released 2023.09.28 Archbishop Timothy Broglio, President of the USCCB, wrote a letter asking Congress for bipartisan action to avert or bring an end to federal government shutdowns and the hardships that come when Congress and administrations fail to reach agreements on such actions. Read the letter: https://www.usccb.org/resources/letter-congress-fiscal-year-2024-continuing-resolution-and-government-shutdown-september?utm_source=hootsuite&utm_medium=twitter&utm_term= Representatives from Catholic Indigenous organizations came together with Catholic bishops and staff from the episcopal conferences of Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States for the International Conference on Catholic Indigenous Ministry (ICCI). The purpose of the week-long gathering was to share experiences, ideas, resources, and best practices encountered in the relationship between the Catholic Church and Indigenous communities. Read the press release: https://www.usccb.org/news/2023/international-conference-seeks-enrich-ministry-catholic-indigenous-populations Learn about the work of the USCCB Subcommittee of Native American Affairs: https://www.usccb.org/committees/native-american-affairs Praying for those who have died in the Mediterranean Sea and praising those who help rescue and welcome migrants attempting the treacherous crossing, Pope Francis insisted compassion, encounter and fraternity are the only possible responses to migration. Read the CNS Rome story: https://www.usccb.org/news/2023/people-have-duty-save-migrants-danger-drowning-pope-says Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNmlBLb5ydI

Released 2024.01.04 This week we talked with Felicitas Brugo Onetti, the Anti-Trafficking Education and Outreach Coordinator in Migration and Refugee Services at the USCCB, about the Church's work to prevent human trafficking and support survivors. Learn more about human trafficking, how you can help, and pray for the intercession of St. Josephine Bakhita at https://justiceforimmigrants.org/stbakhita/

Released 2023.11.15 The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) gathered for the 2023 Fall Plenary Assembly in Baltimore, November 13-16. Watch the livestream and read related materials at https://www.usccb.org/plenary-assembly-november-13-16-2023. The Catholic bishops of the United States approved an updated introductory note to the teaching document on political responsibility, Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship (en Español), as well as new bulletin inserts and video template script. This statement represents the bishops' guidance for Catholics in the exercise of their rights and duties as participants in our democracy. The updated version and related materials will be posted soon at www.faithfulcitizenship.org. In October Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia and chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, and Bishop Robert Barron of Winona-Rochester, chairman of the USCCB's Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life, and Youth, launched a National Catholic Mental Health Campaign. The campaign aims to inspire a national conversation around the topic of mental health and to mobilize the Catholic Church to respond compassionately and effectively to the mental health crisis. Learn more at https://www.usccb.org/mental-health-novena.

Released 2023.11.30 December 3, 2023, the Church begins its liturgical year with Advent, which is the season encompassing the four Sundays (and weekdays) leading up to the celebration of Christmas. Learn about the season of Advent, download the USCCB's daily Advent calendar, and read about the tradition of blessing your Advent wreath. Advent Calender: https://www.usccb.org/resources/2023-daily-advent-calendar-english Blessing your Advent Wreath: https://www.usccb.org/prayers/blessing-advent-wreath The month of November is Black Catholic History Month. Learn about the holy men and men of African descent who are on the road to sainthood and the work of the USCCB Subcommittee on African American Affairs. https://www.usccb.org/committees/african-american-affairs/road-sainthood-leaders-african-descent https://www.usccb.org/committees/african-american-affairs Pope Francis, who is recovering from illness, spoke at his general audience this week about the need for peace in Gaza and Ukraine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ez4LGQNqD14

Released 2023.12.07 The Church continues to celebrate the season Advent, leading up to the celebration of Christmas. Learn about the season of Advent, download the USCCB's daily Advent calendar, bless your Christmas manger or nativity scene, and pray with the “O Antiphons” of Advent. (https://www.usccb.org/prayers/o-antiphons-advent) Participating remotely in the inauguration of a Faith Pavilion at the COP28 conference in Dubai, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of present choices for the future of humanity. Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDr2lrtnSV8 Read the statement from Archbishop Borys Gudziak of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, and Bishop A. Elias Zaidan of the Maronite Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon, chairman of the USCCB's Committee on International Justice and Peace: COP 28: U.S. Bishops Call for International Climate Policies that Promote Justice. https://www.usccb.org/news/2023/cop-28-us-bishops-call-international-climate-policies-promote-justice

Released 2025.05.28 Making Catholic education inclusive and accessible for students with special needs is a priority for the Committee on Catholic Education. Guests Mary Pat Donoghue, Executive Director of USCCB's Secretariat for Catholic Education, and Maggie Hubbard, Ed. D, with the National Catholic Partnership on Disability, discuss the importance of serving all students in Catholic schools.

Together, we examine The Morality of The Passions. Fr. Mike unpacks and explores the different elements of the definition of “passions”. He emphasizes that while passions, themselves, are neither good nor bad, there still is a moral component to them. It is what we do with our passions that can either contribute to virtue or vice. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1762-1775. 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.

Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the article on the morality of human acts. Fr. Mike unpacks the three “sources” of morality: the object chosen, the end in view or the intention, and the circumstances. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the categories of right or wrong, good or evil. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1749-1761. 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.

Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the reality of our human freedom in the economy of salvation. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the right to freedom does not imply a right to say or do anything. Rather, it is the power to choose the “right.” He also emphasizes that the moral law actually allows us to live with freedom and joy, and that when we violate the moral law, we violate our own freedom. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1739-1748. 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.

The Catechism gives us an overview of what it means for humans to have freedom, as well as some of the ramifications of that freedom. It introduces us to the countercultural notion that true freedom is to choose the good—the “freedom” to choose evil is merely the abuse of freedom. Fr. Mike ensures that we understand imputability and culpability because questions about intention, ignorance, and other social factors will be the hinges upon which swing the doors of sin. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1730-1738. 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.

“The Beatitudes are at the heart of Jesus' preaching,” the Catechism tells us. Jesus' proclamation in Chapter 5 of the Gospel of Matthew purifies our hearts, sets a standard for earthly discernment, and directs our actions towards heaven. Fr. Mike invites us to choose God's ways and forsake our own ways. Today's readings and paragraphs 1716-1729. 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.

We enter a new chapter examining the dignity of the human person, and Article 1 shows us that we have dignity because we are made in the image and likeness of God. We preserve that dignity when we exercise virtue and charity, and we do violence to it when we commit sin and evil acts. Fr. Mike hones in on the bold statement that we as humans are “the only creature on earth that God has willed for its own sake.” Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1699-1715. 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.

As we step into Part Three of the Catechism on How We Live, we begin with an overview of our high calling as sons and daughters of God. Truly our “first and last point of reference” will always be “Jesus Christ himself, who is ‘the way, and the Truth, and the life.'” Fr. Mike identifies for us that when most people say, “I can't accept what the Church teaches”, it's rarely about dogma, like the Trinity or the divinity of Christ. More often than not, it's about Christian morality, and that's the journey we're embarking on. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1691-1698. 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.

The third part of the Catechism tells us how to live—how God has revealed that we are made to act toward him, toward each other, and toward ourselves. Fr. Mike and Dr. Mary Healy dive deep into moral theology, the state of our culture, and some of the stumbling blocks readers are bound to encounter in this part of the Catechism (as well as how to overcome them). 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 this final episode of Pillar 2, we learn about the Christian funeral rite. Fr. Mike explains how the new life begun in Baptism comes to greater fulfillment as the Christian passes over from this earthly life into the fullness of the Kingdom. The Church, who has sacramentally nourished her children throughout their earthly pilgrimage, upon their death commends them to the Father and places their bodies in the earth to await the resurrection in hope. Each funeral is to end with a farewell to the beloved dead, knowing that we still share communion in Christ and will reunite in our heavenly home. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1680-1690. 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.

Sacramentals are sacred signs that resemble the sacraments. Blessings of people, places, and objects are foremost among the various sacramentals found in the life of the Church. Among these blessings are those of exorcism, in both its simple and solemn form. Fr. Mike notes that sacramentals and the many forms of popular piety, such as the Rosary, are noble expressions of faith that prepare us to participate in the Liturgy but can never replace the Liturgy. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1667-1679. 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.

This summary of the Catechism's teaching on the sacrament of Matrimony pulls together several beautiful themes regarding marriage and family. Fr. Mike emphasizes the family as the Domestic Church, that community where parents and children grow in charity, forgiveness, prayer, and self-giving. We're reminded that the communion of love shared by husband and wife in marriage is a sacramental sign of the union between Christ and his Church. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1659 through 1666. 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.

“Children are the supreme gift of marriage,” says Vatican II. Marriage is directed by its very nature toward the procreation of children. Beyond this, parents are the primary educators of their children, responsible for their holistic formation. Sadly, many couples suffer from infertility. Even in their struggle, they can provide a powerful witness of love, sacrifice, and fidelity. In all this and more, we see the family as the Domestic Church. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1652-1658. 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.

“Love seeks to be definitive,” the Catechism tells us in this section on marital fidelity. The faithfulness of husband and wife in the sacrament of Matrimony is a sign of God's irrevocable covenant with humanity. This fidelity is both beautiful and challenging. Fr. Mike addresses painful separation and divorce situations and how the whole ecclesial community should respond with truthful love. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1646 through 1651. 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.

The grace of the Sacrament of Marriage provides husbands and wives the strength to love one another with supernatural, tender, and fruitful love. Fr. Mike covers the characteristics of the marriage bond and the different roles of husbands and wives. He explains what it means to “be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ.” We also learn that indissolubility, faithfulness, and openness to fertility are requirements of conjugal love. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1638-1645. 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.

Can a Catholic marry a baptized non-Catholic or a non-baptized person? Fr. Mike breaks down the Church's teaching on mixed marriages and disparity of cult. The Catechism teaches us that while a difference in religion “does not constitute an insurmountable obstacle for marriage,” it can often be a source of tension in marriage and present significant challenges when raising a family. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1625-1632. 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.

Matrimonial consent is an indispensable element of the Sacrament of Marriage. Fr. Mike explains why it is essential for those entering marriage to express their consent freely and why in the Church's eyes, “if consent is lacking, there is no marriage.” Fr. Mike also guides us through the Church's teaching on annulment and clarifies why it can be complex. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1625-1632. 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.