Episodes

  • Fr. Mike on the Charlie Kirk Shooting & The Real Cause of Violence

    Fr. Mike on the Charlie Kirk Shooting & The Real Cause of Violence
    Sep 16 2025
    If you've been rocked by all of the death, violence, and destruction in the news these past few weeks, you are not alone. Fr. Mike offers guidance during this difficult time, and reflects on Charlie Kirk's words: "When people stop talking, that's when you get violence." Fr. Mike filmed this video on September 12th, 2025 — two days after Charlie Kirk's assassination.
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    12 mins
  • How Do People Become Saints? (Fr. Mike Explains the Canonization Process)

    How Do People Become Saints? (Fr. Mike Explains the Canonization Process)
    Sep 6 2025
    How does someone become a saint? What steps and criteria does the Catholic Church follow in the canonization process? Fr. Mike unpacks the journey to sainthood and reminds us that holiness begins with one simple thing, saying “yes” to God.
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    7 mins
  • Introducing Fr. Mike’s New Podcast: “Called”

    Introducing Fr. Mike’s New Podcast: “Called”
    Sep 4 2025
    "Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40) Fr. Mike shares the exciting news of his new podcast, "Called"! Join us each week as Fr. Mike sits down with a new guest discussing how we're all called to live a more virtuous, generous and Christ-centered life. To learn more, check out: https://thecatholicinitiative.org/podcast/
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    8 mins
  • Fr. Mike Reacts to His First Video Ever

    Fr. Mike Reacts to His First Video Ever
    Aug 28 2025
    It’s hard to believe, but it’s been 10 years since Fr. Mike first appeared on Ascension Presents! From day one, his wisdom, humor, and joy have inspired countless people on their faith journey. Whether you’ve been here since the very beginning or just discovered our channel, come join us as Fr. Mike takes a trip down memory lane, reacting to his very first Ascension Presents video!
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    11 mins
  • How to Be Okay with Silence

    How to Be Okay with Silence
    Aug 21 2025
    Does silence ever feel uncomfortable? Do you fill the quiet with TV, music, or endless scrolling? Fr. Mike explains why silence isn’t something to fear but something we desperately need, both in our daily lives and especially in prayer. While learning, entertainment, and even guided prayers can be good, true growth happens when we create space for silence and allow ourselves to hear the voice of God.
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    9 mins
  • Fr. Mike Reacts to Confession Scenes from Movies and TV Shows

    Fr. Mike Reacts to Confession Scenes from Movies and TV Shows
    Aug 18 2025
    Have you ever watched a confession scene and wondered how accurate it really is? Join Fr. Mike as he reacts to popular confession scenes in movies and tv shows!
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    22 mins
  • The Best Thing Fr. Mike Learned From His Parents

    The Best Thing Fr. Mike Learned From His Parents
    Aug 15 2025
    Looking for a powerful book recommendation? Look no further. Fr. Mike’s new book Unshakeable is all about living a life of virtue in the midst of chaos. Fr. Mike shares why he dedicated the book to his parents, the best advice they ever gave him, and the four simple words that can change everything: “Trust in the Lord.”
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    7 mins
  • Is It Normal to Feel Lonely? Fr. Mike on Loneliness

    Is It Normal to Feel Lonely? Fr. Mike on Loneliness
    Jul 24 2025
    Do you feel lost in your loneliness? Fr. Mike reminds us that throughout Scripture, loneliness shows up again and again, even Jesus himself experienced deep moments of isolation. If you’re feeling alone, know that you’re not the only one. In your loneliness, you can unite your heart to Christ’s, who truly understands what you're going through.
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    7 mins