Catholic Classics: The Imitation of Christ

PodcastSeason 431 Episodes

Read Thomas à Kempis' Imitation of Christ with Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P., and Fr. Mike Schmitz. One of the most widely read books in history, guiding readers away from worldly vanity toward true wisdom and union with Christ.

Hosted by Fr. Mike Schmitz · Fr. Gregory Pine, OP

Man proposes, but God disposes. Nor is the way of man in his own hands.

— Thomas à Kempis, c. 1418

INTRO

Introducing The Imitation of Christ32 min

EP1

The Ultimate Good28 min

EP2

Facing Temptations and Adversity33 min

EP3

Loving Patiently27 min

EP4

Remember Your Death29 min

EP5

Preparing for Judgment22 min

EP6

Distrust of Self23 min

EP7

The Joy of a Clean Conscience25 min

EP8

When the Cross Finds You26 min

EP9

Listening to God's Voice17 min

EP10

Walking in Truth23 min

EP11

The Way of Humility22 min

EP12

Examine the Heart's Desires17 min

EP13

Solace in God Alone16 min

EP14

Patience in Suffering24 min

EP15

The Path to Peace21 min

EP16

Detachment from Finite Things25 min

EP17

Fixing Your Heart on God18 min

EP18

Vulnerability Before God21 min

EP19

Everything Is Gift23 min

EP20

Learning What Truly Matters24 min

EP21

The Longing for Heaven23 min

EP22

The Necessity of Purification23 min

EP23

Nature and Grace20 min

EP24

Persevering with Courage18 min

EP25

The Hidden Wisdom of God21 min

EP26

The Miracle of the Eucharist28 min

EP27

Receiving the Lord Worthily23 min

EP28

Offering All to God20 min

EP29

Strengthening Devotion24 min

EP30

Deep Trust in God21 min

Second Only to the Bible — The Imitation of Christ

Starting October 22, 2025, Fr. Mike Schmitz makes his debut as host of Catholic Classics, joined by Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. Together they read through Thomas à Kempis's The Imitation of Christ chapter by chapter — 30 episodes of reflection and commentary on one of the greatest books ever written.

The second most-read book in Christian history, after the Bible itself. For 600 years The Imitation of Christ has drawn men and women — including many of the Church's greatest saints — away from worldly vanity and
toward true union with Christ.

BELOVED BY THE SAINTS

The book that shaped some of the greatest saints in history

St. Teresa of Avila carried it with her at all times. St. Thomas More read it in prison. St. Ignatius of Loyola turned to it as his first spiritual companion after his conversion. For 600 years, The Imitation of Christ has found its way into the hands of the holiest men and women the Church has known.

THE CATHOLIC CLASSICS EDITION

A translation made for Catholics today

The language of Thomas à Kempis has shifted considerably in 600 years. This edition brings you The Imitation of Christ in clear, accessible modern English — without losing the depth and beauty of the original.

Exclusive commentary written specifically for this edition helps you understand how each passage connects to the whole of the spiritual life.

THE PODCAST

Read chapter by chapter with Fr. Mike Schmitz and Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P.

Over 30 episodes, Fr. Mike Schmitz and Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. read through The Imitation of Christ together — offering reflection on what each chapter means for the Catholic trying to live a devout life today.