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The Bible in a Year Companion, Volume I

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Get even more out of The Bible in a Year!The Bible in a Year Companion guide takes Catholics through the award-winning podcast The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)™ including daily summaries, transcripts of Fr. Mike’s daily prayers, and extra content for each episode.

It’s the perfect way to remember what you’re hearing, as well as learn even more about each part of Scripture!

The Companion presents daily content for each episode of the podcast,

The proprietary Bible in a Year Reading PlanSummary of the key points and highlights of Fr. Mike’s commentary on the daily readings"Take It to Prayer", where Catholics will be able to pray the daily prayer alongside Fr. Mike and the rest of the BIY communityUnique content surrounding each day’s readings, from images and Q&As to prayer prompts and ways to live out the Scriptures in real lifeIn addition to the daily content, each time period will have a Time Period Introduction and Review. Written by Jeff Cavins, these will help Catholics to know what to look for in the days ahead, and to recall what has happened in the days completed.

From Fr. Mike’s

“I believe that this Bible in a Year Companion is a great tool to take you deeper. It is one thing to be exposed to the Story, but it is another to remember it. This Companion will help those who are so quick to forget—which is all of us! … In this world, where we are so tempted toward distraction and distress, we now have a resource to understand how the story of salvation unfolds and how we can fit into that story today.

“Now, we have a place to remember.”

Volume I of The Bible in a Year Companion covers Days 1–120 of The Bible in a Year podcast.

For Days 121–243, keep an eye out for Volume II, which will be announced and available in spring of 2022.

This sought-after guide to the award-winning podcast The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)™ is coming to you thanks to many collaborators

Fr. Mike SchmitzJeff CavinsBobby SemendyMembers of the Ascension Catholic Bible Studies Facebook groupLavinia SpiritoRitmeyer Archaeological Design& many more!

473 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 24, 2022

506 people are currently reading
230 people want to read

About the author

Michael Schmitz

31 books253 followers
Ordained for the Diocese of Duluth, Minnesota in 2003, Fr. Michael Schmitz is currently the Director of the Newman Center at the University of Minnesota-Duluth and Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the diocese. Fr. Michael is known nationally for his inspiring homilies, his presentations and talks to university students, and his tremendous sense of humor. (IgnatiusPress.com)

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for Steven R. McEvoy.
3,809 reviews174 followers
May 1, 2022
I completed the Bible in a Year in 2021. Then early in 2022 I attended the The Bible in a Year Retreat, and absolutely loved it. When I found out about the three volumes of companions for the Bible in a year I picked this volume up right away and keep my eye out as this one was nearing completion for the second volume to be available. These volumes make the Bible in a Year an even better experience.

The description of this volume states:

“The Bible in a Year Companion guide takes Catholics through the award-winning podcast The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)™ including daily summaries, transcripts of Fr. Mike’s daily prayers, and extra content for each episode.

It’s the perfect way to remember what you’re hearing, as well as learn even more about each part of Scripture!

The Companion presents daily content for each episode of the podcast, including:

The proprietary Bible in a Year Reading Plan Summary of the key points and highlights of Fr. Mike’s commentary on the daily readings.

"Take It to Prayer", where Catholics will be able to pray the daily prayer alongside Fr. Mike and the rest of the BIY community.

Unique content surrounding each day’s readings, from images and Q&As to prayer prompts and ways to live out the Scriptures in real life.

In addition to the daily content, each time period will have a Time Period Introduction and Review. Written by Jeff Cavins, these will help Catholics to know what to look for in the days ahead, and to recall what has happened in the days completed.”

And father Mike states at the end of the introduction:

“I believe that this Bible in a Year Companion is a great tool to take you deeper. It is one thing to be exposed to the Story, but it is another to remember it. This Companion will help those who are so quick to forget—which is all of us! … In this world, where we are so tempted toward distraction and distress, we now have a resource to understand how the story of salvation unfolds and how we can fit into that story today.”

Each time period begins with an introduction by Jeff Cavins. This is where Jeff explains the colour of that period, what it means and why. He gives a brief overview of key events, people, and changes from period to period. And each period ends with a recap and summary from Jeff. Each day has a two page spread. The first page Had the Day number and title, And a section called Reflect on the Word. The Second page has the Passages read at the top and two more sections; Take It To Prayer and Dive Deeper. A sample day is:

“Day 24: Tears of Joy
Reflect on the Word

• When Joseph reveals who he is to his brothers, he weeps.
• Just as a mother weeps when she finds her child who was lost, we weep during joyful moments because we know the situation could have gone otherwise.
• Joseph weeps because he knows that he could have gone the rest of his life without seeing his father and brothers again or without meeting Benjamin.
• We weep in joy because we know how fragile we are, and we know that if the Lord isn’t with us, this fragility leads to death and destruction.
• God is with us right now. So there is room in our lives for joy and tears—and joyful tears.
• What joy breaks your heart today, knowing that it could be otherwise?
• What sorrow is breaking your heart today?

Take It to Prayer

Father in heaven, we thank you, and we give you praise. Thank you so much for the gift of this day. Thank you for the gift of your Word. Thank you for the gift of revealing your heart to us, because that is what you do in your Word. You speak to us, and you continue to speak to us—even, Lord, when your Word is challenging—even, Lord, when your Word is confusing and we don’t understand what is going on and we don’t understand what you are trying to say to us. Still, you continue to speak, and we continue to listen. Give us hearts that can understand what we are hearing. Give us hearts to understand what you are saying. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Dive Deeper

What is the relationship between the stories of Benjamin and Joseph?
The stories of Joseph and Benjamin play a central role in the movement of the Israelites to Egypt, which will end up being a four-hundred-year sojourn in slavery. Joseph and Benjamin are born to Jacob’s favorite wife, Rachel, and are Jacob’s eleventh and twelfth sons. Of the two brothers, Joseph enjoys pride of place with Jacob, as seen by his father’s gift to him of the coat of many colors (or, “a long robe with sleeves”). This obvious preference leads to jealousy among his brothers, eventually leading them to sell the seventeen-year-old Joseph into Egyptian slavery. Jacob believes that Joseph has been killed by wild animals, leaving Benjamin as Rachel’s only surviving child.

Immediately before Joseph is sold into slavery by his brothers, he has two dreams—one with sheaves of wheat (see Genesis 37:5-8), the other with eleven stars (see Genesis 37:9-11), all of which are bowing down to him. These dreams foretell his brothers’ journey to Egypt during the famine seeking food and how the “eleven stars” (his brothers) will bow down to him.
–Jeff Cavins”

This is an excellent resource. Most days I have listened to the pod cast in the morning. And then on my first coffee break at work, I read through the two pages for that day. I love praying the pray that Father Mike prayed that day, and I love the going deeper sections. I believe this is a must have resource to support your Bible in a Year journey. This is my second time through the pod cast and I see it being an annual journey going forward. If you are listening to the BIAY pick this up as a supplement to that adventure.

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2022 Catholic Reading Plan!
Profile Image for Steven R. McEvoy.
3,809 reviews174 followers
April 29, 2024
I completed the Bible in a Year in 2021. Then early in 2022 I attended the The Bible in a Year Retreat, and absolutely loved it. When I found out about the three volumes of companions for the Bible in a year I picked this volume up right away and keep my eye out as this one was nearing completion for the second volume to be available. These volumes make the Bible in a Year an even better experience.

The description of this volume states:

“The Bible in a Year Companion guide takes Catholics through the award-winning podcast The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)™ including daily summaries, transcripts of Fr. Mike’s daily prayers, and extra content for each episode.

It’s the perfect way to remember what you’re hearing, as well as learn even more about each part of Scripture!

The Companion presents daily content for each episode of the podcast, including:

The proprietary Bible in a Year Reading Plan Summary of the key points and highlights of Fr. Mike’s commentary on the daily readings.

"Take It to Prayer", where Catholics will be able to pray the daily prayer alongside Fr. Mike and the rest of the BIY community.

Unique content surrounding each day’s readings, from images and Q&As to prayer prompts and ways to live out the Scriptures in real life.

In addition to the daily content, each time period will have a Time Period Introduction and Review. Written by Jeff Cavins, these will help Catholics to know what to look for in the days ahead, and to recall what has happened in the days completed.”

And father Mike states at the end of the introduction:

“I believe that this Bible in a Year Companion is a great tool to take you deeper. It is one thing to be exposed to the Story, but it is another to remember it. This Companion will help those who are so quick to forget—which is all of us! … In this world, where we are so tempted toward distraction and distress, we now have a resource to understand how the story of salvation unfolds and how we can fit into that story today.”

Each time period begins with an introduction by Jeff Cavins. This is where Jeff explains the colour of that period, what it means and why. He gives a brief overview of key events, people, and changes from period to period. And each period ends with a recap and summary from Jeff. Each day has a two page spread. The first page Had the Day number and title, And a section called Reflect on the Word. The Second page has the Passages read at the top and two more sections; Take It To Prayer and Dive Deeper. A sample day is:

“Day 24: Tears of Joy
Reflect on the Word

• When Joseph reveals who he is to his brothers, he weeps.
• Just as a mother weeps when she finds her child who was lost, we weep during joyful moments because we know the situation could have gone otherwise.
• Joseph weeps because he knows that he could have gone the rest of his life without seeing his father and brothers again or without meeting Benjamin.
• We weep in joy because we know how fragile we are, and we know that if the Lord isn’t with us, this fragility leads to death and destruction.
• God is with us right now. So there is room in our lives for joy and tears—and joyful tears.
• What joy breaks your heart today, knowing that it could be otherwise?
• What sorrow is breaking your heart today?

Take It to Prayer

Father in heaven, we thank you, and we give you praise. Thank you so much for the gift of this day. Thank you for the gift of your Word. Thank you for the gift of revealing your heart to us, because that is what you do in your Word. You speak to us, and you continue to speak to us—even, Lord, when your Word is challenging—even, Lord, when your Word is confusing and we don’t understand what is going on and we don’t understand what you are trying to say to us. Still, you continue to speak, and we continue to listen. Give us hearts that can understand what we are hearing. Give us hearts to understand what you are saying. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Dive Deeper

What is the relationship between the stories of Benjamin and Joseph?
The stories of Joseph and Benjamin play a central role in the movement of the Israelites to Egypt, which will end up being a four-hundred-year sojourn in slavery. Joseph and Benjamin are born to Jacob’s favourite wife, Rachel, and are Jacob’s eleventh and twelfth sons. Of the two brothers, Joseph enjoys pride of place with Jacob, as seen by his father’s gift to him of the coat of many colours (or, “a long robe with sleeves”). This obvious preference leads to jealousy among his brothers, eventually leading them to sell the seventeen-year-old Joseph into Egyptian slavery. Jacob believes that Joseph has been killed by wild animals, leaving Benjamin as Rachel’s only surviving child.

Immediately before Joseph is sold into slavery by his brothers, he has two dreams—one with sheaves of wheat (see Genesis 37:5-8), the other with eleven stars (see Genesis 37:9-11), all of which are bowing down to him. These dreams foretell his brothers’ journey to Egypt during the famine seeking food and how the “eleven stars” (his brothers) will bow down to him.
–Jeff Cavins”

This is an excellent resource. Most days I have listened to the pod cast in the morning. And then on my first coffee break at work, I read through the two pages for that day. I love praying the pray that Father Mike prayed that day, and I love the going deeper sections. I believe this is a must have resource to support your Bible in a Year journey. This is my second time through the pod cast and I see it being an annual journey going forward. If you are listening to the BIAY pick this up as a supplement to that adventure.

This book is part of a series of reviews: 2024 Catholic Reading Plan!

Note: This review is of the Kindle edition I did review the eBook edition in 2022.
10 reviews
October 18, 2022
The chapters are a verbatim review of the podcast, which is helpful in studying what was discussed. There is a “dig deeper” thought at the end of the chapter. Fr. Mike Schmitz is a phenomenal speaker. He gets right to the point—no holds barred—with passion, humility and humor. The book is a little pricey for what the content is.
Profile Image for Micaela (De Benedetto) Sullivan.
10 reviews
August 27, 2024
I have this book to thank for getting me this far into reading the Bible. I’ve never read the Bible through before, and this and the podcast really helped get me started. Eventually, I realized I don’t need the podcast anymore, and prefer just to read on my own, and utilize the commentary and daily prayer in this book. While the commentary is very basic, compared to enduring word, for the example, I have to give credit where credit is due, and this book keeps me coming back almost every single day. I would highly recommend the podcast and this book for anyone getting started on their Bible reading journey.
Profile Image for Lea.
64 reviews
December 10, 2024
Completed the Bible in a Year w/ Fr Mike Schmidt.
Profile Image for Marie Pike.
2 reviews
January 18, 2025
2025 I subscribe to HALO. this study is wonderful. I want the Kindle bible. I look to having both downloaded on my devices. I am grateful for the options. Great idea and so happy to have access to all. I wish my mother was able to see and follow along on Roku. She is deaf,and the Parkinson's keeps her from touching tiles on a screen. God Bless you all !
77 reviews
April 30, 2022
study guide accompaniment

This companion helps with your bible study enrichment. It provides recap of the daily podcast, additional prayer, and supplemental learning spiritual opportunity.
Profile Image for Ida Meccariello-Heath.
5 reviews
June 16, 2022
Bible in a Year!

One of my best companions! Really helps to fully understand what the Bible is telling us. The lay out is good and all points are clearly stated.
Looking forward now to moving onto Volume 2! Thank you!
Profile Image for Fallon.
92 reviews4 followers
December 31, 2022
This was a great journey through the bible. I learned a lot from this study. It was not as intimating as I thought it would be. I recommend this if you would like a self-study and to increase your understanding of the Catholic faith.
Profile Image for Becky.
1,336 reviews2 followers
April 5, 2024
This is a book to go along with the podcast that explores the Bible historically. Volume 1 covers days 1-120. It is intriguing, and today just started 2 Samuel and Chronicles. It has given me such a better understanding of the Word.
Profile Image for Rose Peterson.
44 reviews
May 21, 2023
A great companion and review guide for The Bible in a Year with Father Mike Schmitz.
Profile Image for Daneen Herbert.
4 reviews1 follower
December 31, 2024
Fr. Mike does an excellent job of reviewing and summarizing the readings each day. He’s informative and interesting.
Profile Image for Susan Storry.
11 reviews3 followers
October 25, 2025
I learned so much!! this has been the best explanation so far of the Bible for me!
Profile Image for Mary Ann.
182 reviews3 followers
May 1, 2022
Using this Companion with Ascension’s podcast of Bible in a Year with Father Mike is awesome! The first year I read the Bible with them in 2021, I took a few notes on my own and they were limited because I didn’t want to miss out on what he was saying. This time, this companion had all the highlights. It includes his daily prayer at the end of each daily reading plus the highlights he shared. All I had to do was highlight the text that stood out to me and write any notes of my own at the bottom of the page. Now I can go back easily and compare for the future readings whenever I choose to re-read the Bible. The reading timeline is listed on each page which is also awesome especially since they are color coded. I’m ready to start with the second volume and buy the third when it becomes available. Absolutely loved it! It’s also available as an ebook but I personally prefer the written form.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
215 reviews
April 30, 2022
Book 64 of 2022 — The Bible in a Year Companion Volume 1 (Days 1-120) by Father Mike Schmitz

I cannot more heartily profess my love for Father Mike! His Bible in a Year podcast has changed my life! I have been following him since he was just “the handsome priest” on YouTube haha!

This companion to the podcast is fantastic. It includes key points, the prayer after reading, and a reflection. It also has pictures and explanations. I have already bought volume II for the next segment!

If you’ve ever wanted to know more about biblical teaching and history (even if you are not catholic!), this podcast and book are super helpful in understanding. You can listen to the podcast on every available streaming platform!

5⭐️/5
Profile Image for Sheri.
403 reviews4 followers
July 26, 2022
4.5 stars. Very helpful in getting even more out of the Bible In a Year. I listened to the entire podcast last year. Listening again this year and using this companion and notebook. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Deb.
209 reviews3 followers
August 12, 2022
The commentary is excellent, but basically is the print form of what Father Mike already said in the podcast. Expensive for a only a portion of the Bible, with no more additional discourse than the original “homily.”
1 review
July 13, 2022
Wonderful companion to the Bible in a Year Podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz and Jeff Cavins. Bullet points and simple formatting make it easy to follow along. Looking forward to beginning volume 2.
Profile Image for Sara.
333 reviews
May 8, 2022
I love Fr Mike. He makes understanding the Bible so much easier and shows how it applies to our day to day lives.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews

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