If you haven’t started following the online readings of the Catechism In A Year with Father Mike Schmitz, it’s not too late to start. As of January 4th, 2023, it is Day 4.
I follow on Youtube. Start on Day 1 and subscribe to the channel. This way the next day shows up in your stream:
You can also subscribe via the Ascension Press website. You do not have to buy their version of The Catechism of the Catholic Church. Use the copy you already have.
Wishing all a Happy New Year! A new beginning for all of us to celebrate the love of our God and rejoice in Jesus. As we approach a new year and strive to walk closer to God, we are blessed with the knowledge that yes, we may muck up, but are thankful that the Jesus in us will lift us up.
January 1 is the Octave Day of Christmas
The Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child. All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.
When eight days were completed for his circumcision, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
Luke 2:16-21
New Year To Do:
An idea for the start of the new year is listening to the Catechism in a Yearwith Father Mike
I have been spending the pass few days with my family in Toronto with whom I haven’t seen since the onset of Covid – yup 3 years. Praise be to God for the opportunity to share, rejoice and share in God’s love.
It’s been a blessing to spend time with each of my siblings and their families. Although 3 years of Covid restrictions were at times challenging – in afterthought the time pass quickly – in a blink of an eye – all the kids have grown up. Thank you to the triune, all the angels and saints for their cloak of protection.
Queen Quay Pier, Toronto
May God’s Blessings follow each of you in your daily walk 🙏💕
I have to share this video by Father Mike. He had me smiling all the way through it. His honesty and humility shines through as he shares his story about his tattoo.
When I was a teenager, I use to wear a heart shaped patch on my jeans. Embroidered on it was “Jesus Loves You,” and I recall many happy memories of my youth in those jeans. When I got older, I somehow lost that carefreeness and became much more reserved. Today, wearing religious symbols is rare and often for fashion and not based on a religious commitment or belief. Getting a tattoo – I think it’s cool. I’m too old now. Also, I can imagine the teasing I’ll get from my own kids – thinking mom has gone bonkers!
Father Mike’s love for Jesus shines (I give him a thumbs up!):
Bishop Barron reminds me of a seed pod that’s taken root, germinated and blown by the wind across the land. All seedlings from this one root is scattered across the land sprouting fresh roots that’s vibrant and green. His messages awakens all sleeping Catholics, and inspires them into joining him in sharing the wonderful message of Jesus.
His institute, Word on Fire Institute, is also a wonderful starting point and support for all those like myself who seeks deeper insights into how to evangelize, as well as an understanding of the nature of our society, it’s demographics, and how at the crux of new technological developments to spread the word of God. It also gives those who wants, a deeper theological foundation. The community is wonderfully supportive as well.
Father Mike is one of my favorite evangelist. His upbeat message, humor and sarcasm, grabs the attention of the most lackadaisical teen (my two children follow daily his Bible in 365 days) and “Nones.
I hope both Bishop Barron and Father Mike helped answer some of your questions.
On a personal note, and as I have talked about in previous postings, after my first steps towards Holy Mary in praying the Rosary, I now run to Mother Mary like a little child, seeking within her embrace -comfort. In my most desperate hour, Holy Mary is there for me and calms my heart so that I can see more clearly my beloved Jesus.
Be Inspired! 