Review of the “Bible in a Year” Podcast by Fr. Mike Schmitz

I’ve often turned to Scripture for comfort and guidance, but I never quite managed to read the Bible from cover to cover—until I found the “Bible in a Year” podcast by Fr. Mike Schmitz. It’s a simple, structured way to explore the Bible, so I decided to give it a try. With 365 episodes, the podcast offers daily readings and reflections that make it easier to understand and apply biblical teachings to your life.

Here’s my personal review of the “Bible in a Year” podcast and how it’s impacted my faith journey.

A Guided Journey Through Scripture

Structure and Format

One of the most appealing aspects of the “Bible in a Year” podcast is its well-structured format. Each episode lasts approximately 20-25 minutes, making it accessible for listeners with busy schedules. Fr. Mike Schmitz, the host, begins each episode with a prayer, inviting listeners to open their hearts to the Word of God. This sets a reverent tone for the listening experience.

The podcast follows a reading plan inspired by the Great Adventure Bible Timeline® learning system that takes listeners through the entire Bible in one year. Each episode includes readings from the Bible. Fr. Mike provides context, historical insights, and personal reflections that enrich the understanding of each passage. His ability to break down complex themes and ideas into digestible segments is a hallmark of this podcast.

Daily Commitment

The commitment to listen daily is a significant aspect of the podcast. At first, I was apprehensive about setting aside time each day for additional Scripture reading. However, I soon realized that listening while I drink my morning coffee allowed me to integrate this practice into my daily routine seamlessly. This consistency fostered a deeper connection with the material and allowed me to engage with the Word of God regularly.

Spiritual Growth and Insights

Deepening Understanding of Scripture

Fr. Mike Schmitz has a unique gift for making Scripture relatable and accessible. His engaging storytelling and enthusiastic delivery captivated my attention and sparked curiosity about the biblical narrative. Through his reflections, I gained a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural context of the texts, which enhanced my appreciation for their relevance today.

For example, in his discussions on the Old Testament, Fr. Mike often highlights the covenant relationship between God and His people. He draws parallels to our lives today, emphasizing the continuity of God’s love and faithfulness throughout history. This connection helped me recognize the personal significance of biblical events, transforming my reading from a mere historical exercise into a living dialogue with God.

Encouraging Personal Reflection

Fr. Mike’s reflections often encourage personal introspection. He poses thought-provoking questions that prompt listeners to consider how the biblical teachings apply to their lives. During episodes discussing the Beatitudes, for instance, he invited listeners to reflect on how they embody those principles in their everyday interactions. This focus on practical application is one of the podcast’s greatest strengths, as it empowers listeners to live out their faith authentically.

Additionally, the incorporation of prayer and contemplation into each episode encourages listeners to pause and meditate on the Scripture. This practice helped me cultivate a more prayerful mindset, allowing me to encounter God in a new way through His Word.

Building a Sense of Community

Connecting with Fellow Listeners

One aspect of the “Bible in a Year” podcast that pleasantly surprised me was the sense of community it fosters among listeners. Many people share their experiences in the Facebook group, discussing insights, questions, and breakthroughs they encounter throughout the year. This collective journey through Scripture creates a supportive environment that encourages engagement and fellowship among Catholics and Christians alike.

The podcast’s official website, AscensionPress.com, and social media channels provide resources, discussion questions, and even downloadable reading plans, enhancing the sense of belonging.

Overcoming Challenges

Initial Hesitations

Even though the podcast has so many benefits, I ran into a few challenges along the way. At first, keeping up with the daily episodes was tough. But once I made it part of my routine, it became a special part of my day. I’d often sit down with my Bible and lose track of time, sometimes spending hours in it.

Another challenge was trying to make sense of certain passages that were hard to relate to, like all the numbers in the book of Numbers. 🙂 Fr. Mike’s explanations were a lifesaver, though. He tackled the tough parts with honesty and humility, which really helped. His approach made me feel okay about wrestling with Scripture instead of avoiding the difficult sections.

Staying Engaged Throughout the Year

Keeping up the momentum throughout the year was tough. Some days got so busy, it was hard to stay on track. But Fr. Mike’s gentle reminders to approach the Bible with an open heart kept me going. On those harder days, listening to the episodes gave me the spiritual boost I needed, reminding me that even when I struggled, God’s Word was always there and I could pick back up at any time.

The Great Adventure Bible and Accompanying Books

A pivotal component of the “Bible in a Year” experience is the use of The Great Adventure Bible (affiliate), a comprehensive resource designed to enhance your journey through Scripture. Created by Ascension, this Bible provides not only the text but also valuable insights that help to unlock the richness of God’s Word.

The Great Adventure Bible

• Overview:
  The Great Adventure Bible utilizes a unique color-coded system that helps readers understand the overarching narrative of the Bible. This visual guide categorizes books into different time periods and themes, making it easier to see how various stories and teachings fit together in the grand narrative of salvation history.
• Features:
  • In-depth Commentary: Each book of the Bible includes commentaries, which provide context and explain key themes, making it easier to grasp the meaning behind the text.
  • Maps and Charts: The inclusion of maps and charts helps readers visualize the historical and geographical context of the biblical events, enhancing comprehension.
  • Study Questions: Thought-provoking questions are interspersed throughout the text, encouraging personal reflection and deeper engagement with the material.

Accompanying Books

In addition to The Great Adventure Bible, several companion books align with the “Bible in a Year” podcast, enriching the overall experience:

1. “The Bible in a Year Companion, Volume I, Volume II, and Volume III“

The Bible in a Year Companion (in three volumes) enhances your experience with Fr. Mike Schmitz’s podcast. It includes daily summaries, prayers, reading plans, and added content like Q&As and prayer prompts for living out Scripture.

2. “The Great Adventure Catholic Bible Study Program“

For those seeking a deeper dive, this paid Bible study program offers a comprehensive approach to Scripture. It includes study guides, videos, and resources that complement the readings, making it ideal for personal or group study.

3. “The Great Adventure Storybook“

Aimed at families and young readers, this storybook presents key biblical narratives in an engaging and accessible format. It’s a fantastic way to introduce children to Scripture and encourage family discussions about faith.

Benefits of Using These Resources

Integrating The Great Adventure Bible and its accompanying books into your “Bible in a Year” experience offers numerous benefits:

• Enhanced Understanding: The detailed commentaries and contextual information provide a richer understanding of the Scriptures, deepening your appreciation for the text.
• Engagement with Scripture: The study questions and interactive elements encourage you to think critically about the readings and apply their teachings to your life.
• Family Involvement: Utilizing these resources can also foster family discussions about faith, allowing parents to share the beauty of Scripture with their children in an age-appropriate way.

Adding The Great Adventure Bible and companion materials to your Bible in a Year journey enriches your understanding. These resources, combined with Fr. Mike Schmitz’s reflections, help you engage more fully with Scripture. They make each daily reading a deeper exploration of faith.

How to Listen or Watch “Bible in a Year”

Embarking on the journey through the “Bible in a Year” podcast is easy, thanks to various platforms that offer convenient access. Here are three popular ways to engage with Fr. Mike Schmitz’s teachings:

1. Hallow App

The Hallow app is a popular choice (and my favorite) for those seeking a structured approach to prayer and meditation. It offers a user-friendly interface and features guided prayers, meditations, and other spiritual resources, including the “Bible in a Year” podcast:

• How to Access:
  • Download the Hallow app from the App Store or Google Play.
  • Create an account or log in if you already have one.
  • Search for “Bible in a Year” within the app to find the podcast series.
  • You can listen to episodes directly or use other features, such as setting reminders to pray or read Scripture.
• Benefits:
  • The app integrates various prayer resources, making it easy to incorporate daily Scripture readings into your prayer life.
  • The serene audio environment enhances your listening experience, allowing for a deeper meditation on the Word of God.
  • You can create use the Routine tab to schedule regular prayer time with reminders to pray throughout the day.

2. YouTube

For those who prefer a visual experience, the “Bible in a Year” podcast is also available on YouTube. This platform allows you to engage with Fr. Mike Schmitz’s teachings in a dynamic format:

• How to Access:
  • Visit the Ascension Presents YouTube channel.
  • Search for the “Bible in a Year” playlist to find all episodes in order.
  • You can subscribe to the channel for easy access to new content and additional Catholic teachings.
• Benefits:
  • The visual format may resonate with listeners who appreciate seeing Fr. Mike and his expressions as he shares insights on the Scripture.
  • You can easily share specific episodes with friends or family, encouraging them to join you on the journey through the Bible.

3. Ascension App

I have not personally used this resource; however, the Ascension app is another excellent option for those wanting to engage with the “Bible in a Year” podcast. Ascension is the publisher of the podcast, providing a dedicated space for various Catholic resources.

• How to Access:
  • Download the Ascension app from the App Store or Google Play.
  • Sign up or log in to access a wealth of Catholic content, including the “Bible in a Year” podcast.
  • Navigate to the podcast section and select “Bible in a Year” to start listening.
• Benefits:
  • The app curates a range of Catholic content, from podcasts to video series, allowing you to explore various topics beyond the Bible.
  • Users can engage with additional resources, such as study guides and reading plans, enhancing their understanding of the material.

Conclusion: Start Bible in a Year Today!

The Bible in a Year podcast by Fr. Mike Schmitz has deeply impacted my spiritual life. It provides a structured, engaging approach to exploring Scripture daily. Through readings, reflections, and a sense of community, this podcast has strengthened my faith and understanding of the Bible. Fr. Mike’s passion for God’s Word is contagious, and his clear explanations make complex themes approachable, enriching my spiritual journey beyond expectation.

As I journey through the Bible, I recommend this podcast to anyone wanting to deepen their faith and knowledge of Scripture. Whether you’re a lifelong Catholic or new to the faith, Bible in a Year offers transformative insights and meaningful ways to connect with God’s Word.

Reading the Bible isn’t just an intellectual exercise; it’s a profound invitation to encounter God’s love and guidance. Each episode reminds me of Scripture’s power to light our path and renew our hearts.