S09 E02 The Year of the Word: An Interview with Father Mike Schmitz

In this episode we interview our special guest and friend, Fr. Mike Schmitz and introduce you to a brand new podcast from Ascension Press, The Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz featuring Jeff Cavins. We discuss the importance of developing a biblical worldview: a lens to view our relationships, circumstances and choices through how the scripture teaches us to think about ourselves and about God. We chat with one of the most recognizable priests in the modern church about humility, the scripture that speaks to him, and what we all can receive by opening the scriptures every day for a year. You can find a daily reading plan and more information about The Bible in Year Podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz featuring Jeff Cavins at AscensionPress.com. 

Father Mike’s one thing - I Celebrate the Day - Relient K

Father Mike’s other one thing - simplifying and decluttering his life

Sister Miriam’s one thing -  O Come Let Us Adore Him - Maverick City Music 

Heather’s one thing - Holy Mass Candle from Providential Co. 

Michelle’s one thing - 'Tabernacle' print from Ascension Press

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What distracts or prevents you from reading Scripture each day?
3. Discuss the difference between the lens you look at the world through when you listen to social media/news and the lens you look at the world through when you listen to the truth and beauty in Scripture?
4. In this new year, how is God inviting you to experience His character more deeply through scripture? Are there any daily, weekly or monthly commitments you would like to make as a group to reading or listening to scripture?

Journal Questions:

1. Take a moment to reflect on some important scriptures that God has used in your life
2. Take some time to reflect on how you can make space for God’s word in scripture to speak to you this year. Is there a particular verse, chapter or book that God wants you to focus on?
3. What needs to change in your life for Scripture to really become daily bread and nourishment for you?

Quote to Ponder:  “My strength returns to me with my cup of coffee and the reading of the psalms” - Dorothy Day

Scripture for Lectio Divina:  “Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light to my path.” - Psalm 119:105

Announcements: We will be announcing our Lenten book study title and where to buy your book on Monday, January 18. Subscribe to our weekly listener email to be the first to know!