logo
episode-header-image
Today
14m 17s

Day 168: The Celebration of Baptism (202...

ASCENSION
About this episode

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.

Up next
Yesterday
Day 167: The Baptism of Christ (2026)
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 bapti ... Show More
12m 35s
Jun 15
Day 166: Introduction to Baptism (2026)
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 co ... Show More
18m 43s
Jun 14
Day 165: Summary of Liturgical Diversity (2026)
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 welco ... Show More
13m 38s
Recommended Episodes
Jan 2025
Starting Fresh: The Symbolism of Jesus' Baptism
Is there an area of your life that you feel needs a new beginning?  Dr. Sri explains the significance of the upcoming feast of the Baptism of Jesus and shares practical takeaways as we begin to walk with Jesus in the new liturgical year. Snippet from the Show  The Baptism of the ... Show More
22m 24s
Feb 2025
Day 41: The Day of Atonement (2025)
Fr. Mike reveals the parallels between the day of atonement and the sacrifice of the mass. We learn how the temple worship practices of the old testament foreshadow the worship practices of the Catholic Church. Today's readings are Exodus 23, Leviticus 16, and Psalm 77. For the c ... Show More
23m 40s
Feb 2025
Why Does the Bible Say Baptism Saves Us?
If God justifies by faith apart from works, then why do some passages seem to suggest that forgiveness comes through the act of baptism? 
15m 47s
Feb 2025
Memento Mori: Remember Your Death
What happens in the final moments of our lives? Jeff shares his personal experience as he faces his mother's imminent passing, emphasizing the Catholic tradition of Last Rites, the Apostolic Pardon, and various prayers offered by the Church during the final hours of a loved one's ... Show More
20m 8s
May 2022
Ep. 2 | Lent is a Time to Change
Fr Columba discusses how and why we should use this Lent to make some important changes. He points to examples in the Bible, including Jesus’ own 40 days in the desert, as examples for why we should see these 40 days as a time for interior change. Father also addresses “why all t ... Show More
9m 4s
Jun 2025
Day 156: Jesus Casts Out Demons (2025)
As we continue to read about Jesus' ministry, Fr. Mike focuses today on Jesus' power to cast out demons and reminds us that there is an ongoing spiritual battle for our souls. Today's readings are Mark 5-6 and Psalm 21. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibl ... Show More
22m 32s
Dec 2024
Day 366: A Special Leap Year Message
In this bonus leap year episode, Fr. Mike shares three profound excerpts from early saints—St. John Chrysostom, St. Jerome, and St. Vincent of Lérins—that highlight the importance of keeping God's Word close to our hearts. Fr. Mike invites us to take the next step in our faith jo ... Show More
13m 11s
Dec 2024
BONUS: How to Hear God's Voice in Scripture
As we get ready for the Bible in a Year journey, Fr. Mike shares five tips for reading the Bible that will help us to hear God's voice in Scripture. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be ... Show More
21m 34s
Sep 2025
Mirabai Starr on mysticism for everyone
Host James Martin, S.J., explores the mystical dimensions of the spiritual life with Mirabai Starr, an award-winning author, contemporary translator of sacred literature, and world-renowned teacher of contemplative practice and inter-spiritual dialogue. They dive deep into: - Dai ... Show More
1h 4m
Jul 2025
What does the Bible mean by a hardened heart, 'filled' by the Spirit and to be 'holy'?
What is biblical holiness? Can a heart be so hardened that it’s beyond saving? Does the Holy Spirit still give personal promises today? And what does it mean to be truly 'filled' with the Spirit? Tom Wright and Mike Bird tackle four deep listener questions about the nature of hol ... Show More
35m 14s