‘Ireland has been through so much’: Popular podcasting priest on bringing his tour to Dublin

Father Mike Schmitz, a prominent figure in the online Catholic community, is set to perform his Parables tour in Dublin, marking his first appearance outside the United States. The event, scheduled at the National Stadium in Dublin, promises to be an evening of reflection, storytelling, and spiritual insight. This stop on his global tour comes after his popular podcast The Bible in a Year surpassed one billion downloads in March 2026, solidifying his influence within digital religious spaces. Schmitz, known affectionately as “Fr. Mike,” has built a substantial following through his weekly podcasts and YouTube content. His Bible in a Year series, featuring 365 episodes each approximately 20 minutes long, provides a structured yet accessible approach to engaging with the Catholic Bible. Launched in 2021, the podcast has become a cornerstone of modern Catholic outreach, reaching millions of listeners worldwide. In addition to his podcast, Schmitz maintains a YouTube channel called Ascension Presents, which boasts over 1.3 million subscribers. His efforts have earned him recognition from major publications, including The New York Times, which referred to him as a “gateway” into religion for many people. During a recent interview with The Journal, Schmitz expressed his excitement about bringing his tour to Ireland. He noted that while he had received multiple invitations to visit the country over the years, the timing had never aligned with his schedule. However, during a European pilgrimage, his team suggested making a stopover in Ireland, leading to the decision to host the Parables tour in Dublin. This will be the only stop on his current tour outside North America, underscoring its significance. Reflecting on Ireland’s history, Schmitz acknowledged the nation’s struggles, particularly the ongoing impact of past abuse scandals involving the Catholic Church. While he admitted he could not fully grasp the depth of these experiences, he emphasized the importance of healing and renewal. “I know that Ireland has been through so much,” he said, noting that the challenges faced by the Irish people are deeply rooted in historical trauma. Despite this, he expressed cautious optimism, believing that the legacy of faith among Ireland’s ancestors offers a foundation for future growth. Schmitz also addressed the broader issue of secularization and declining church attendance in Ireland. He acknowledged the challenge but remained hopeful, stating that his tour aims to provide a meaningful experience for attendees. Among the participants will be 50 young adults traveling from County Cork, highlighting the diverse demographic drawn to his message. Tickets for the event, promoted under the MCD initiative, range from €44.20 to €54.85 and have sold quickly, indicating strong public interest. In discussing his role as a spiritual guide, Schmitz expressed gratitude for being recognized as a “gateway” to faith. He cited figures like C.S. Lewis and his own family members as influences who similarly helped others connect with their faith. When asked whether this responsibility weighed heavily on him, he responded with humility, acknowledging the gravity of the task. “I recognize the seriousness of that,” he said, adding that he is committed to honoring the trust placed in him by those who have found inspiration in his work. As the event approaches, Schmitz continues to focus on the potential impact of his visit. He hopes that the gathering will not only draw crowds but also inspire personal transformation. With the National Stadium set to host thousands, the performance represents a unique opportunity for both Schmitz and the Irish audience to engage in shared spiritual exploration.