Best Ascension Catholic Faith Formation Podcasts (2025)

1
Day 175: Introduction to Confirmation (2025) 12:25

Play Pause

10h ago12:25

12:25

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 r…

1
Day 175: Knowledge of God (2025) 27:20

10h ago27:20

27:20

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 …

1
Virtue and the Freedom to Fail 26:44

11h ago26:44

26:44

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 …

1
Day 174: Summary of the Sacrament of Baptism (2025) 12:46

1d ago12:46

12:46

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 para…

1
Day 174: The Prophet Hosea (2025) 23:57

1d ago23:57

23:57

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
Day 173: Brothers and Sisters in Baptism (2025) 15:41

2d ago15:41

15:41

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 Cat…

1
Day 173: Confidence in God (2025) 24:40

2d ago24:40

24:40

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 ascen…

1
Day 172: What Does Baptism Do? (2025) 14:57

3d ago14:57

14:57

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…

1
Day 172: Uzziah's Pride (2025) 17:47

3d ago17:47

17:47

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. …

1
Opportunities to Witness 30:18

4d ago30:18

30:18

What's holding you back from sharing Christ with others? With real-life examples and practical advice, Jeff encourages us to recognize and seize opportunities to witness God's love to others. Snippet from the Show As disciples of Christ, we all have the voice to share why we love Jesus and what he's done in our lives. Email us with comments or ques…

1
Day 171: The Necessity of Baptism (2025) 20:09

4d ago20:09

20:09

“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…

1
Day 171: Elijah and Elisha (2025) 24:18

4d ago24:18

24:18

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/biblein…

1
Summer with the pSalms: The Lord is My Shepherd 24:55

5d ago24:55

24:55

Janet and Bridgett begin discussing the first section of the Psalms 1-41. They begin by sharing the five ways David handled the hardships in his life. The focus in on three Psalms but with a new twist to Psalm 23 that neither of them noticed before! Baby Step: Pray Psalm 23 Send us a text Thanks for joining us. Have a blessed day!…

1
Day 170: Who Can Be Baptized? (2025) 13:34

5d ago13:34

13:34

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 epi…

1
Day 170: Joash's Downfall (2025) 21:36

5d ago21:36

21:36

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 read…

1
Take Your Wounds to the Divine Physician 37:55

6d ago37:55

37:55

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 yo…

1
Day 169: The Mystagogy of Baptism (2025) 14:18

6d ago14:18

14:18

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 ho…

1
Day 169: Joash Is Crowned (2025) 19:39

6d ago19:39

19:39

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 suit…

1
Day 168: Wicked Kinds (2025) 21:09

7d ago21:09

21:09

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…

1
Day 168: The Celebration of Baptism (2025) 14:17

7d ago14:17

14:17

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 …

1
The Miracle Behind Corpus Christi 24:19

7d ago24:19

24:19

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 Asc…

1
Day 167: The Baptism of Christ (2025) 12:35

8d ago12:35

12:35

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 Jor…

1
Day 167: Viaticum (2025) 27:58

8d ago27:58

27:58

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…

1
Day 166: Responding in Faith (2025) 25:27

9d ago25:27

25:27

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 discre…

1
Day 166: Introduction to Baptism (2025) 18:43

9d ago18:43

18:43

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 …

1
Day 165: The Lover and the Beloved (2025) 26:57

10d ago26:57

26:57

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 p…

1
Day 165: Summary of Liturgical Diversity (2025) 13:38

10d ago13:38

13:38

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 incompa…

1
Christ in You: A Change in Perspective 25:46

11d ago25:46

25:46

Are you aware that Christ lives within you? Jeff discusses the importance of shifting our perspective from simply following Jesus to recognizing that he dwells within us. He emphasizes how the Holy Spirit empowers us to continue Jesus' mission in our daily lives and to faithfully do God's will. Snippet from the Show _ The spirit of God is living in…

1
Day 164: Tearing Down Idols (2025) 22:59

11d ago22:59

22:59

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, vi…

1
Day 164: Liturgical Diversity and Unity (2025) 10:49

11d ago10:49

10:49

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 r…

1
Summer with the pSalms: Walking with David 23:55

12d ago23:55

23:55

This week, Bridgett and Janet continue the introduction of the Psalms, exploring how the various covenants from the Old Testament lead us to the final covenant made with Jesus through His life, death, and Resurrection. They dive into Psalms 1 and 2 to set the tone for future episodes. Send us a text Thanks for joining us. Have a blessed day!…

1
Day 163: Faith Over Success (2025) 24:10

12d ago24:10

24:10

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 con…