What do you think?
Rate this book
Catechism of the Catholic Church: Complete and Updated
Over 3 million copies sold! Essential reading for Catholics of all walks of life.
Here it is - the first new Catechism of the Catholic Church in more than 400 years, a complete summary of what Catholics around the world commonly believe.
The Catechism draws on the Bible, the Mass, the Sacraments, Church tradition and teaching, and the lives of saints. It comes with a complete index, footnotes and cross-references for a fuller understanding of every subject. The word catechism means "instruction" - this book will serve as the standard for all future catechisms.
Using the tradition of explaining what the Church believes (the Creed), what she celebrates (the Sacraments), what she lives (the Commandments), and what she prays (the Lord's Prayer), the Catechism of the Catholic Church offers challenges for believers and answers for all those interested in learning about the mystery of the Catholic faith.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church is a positive, coherent and contemporary map for our spiritual journey toward transformation.
Here it is - the first new Catechism of the Catholic Church in more than 400 years, a complete summary of what Catholics around the world commonly believe.
The Catechism draws on the Bible, the Mass, the Sacraments, Church tradition and teaching, and the lives of saints. It comes with a complete index, footnotes and cross-references for a fuller understanding of every subject. The word catechism means "instruction" - this book will serve as the standard for all future catechisms.
Using the tradition of explaining what the Church believes (the Creed), what she celebrates (the Sacraments), what she lives (the Commandments), and what she prays (the Lord's Prayer), the Catechism of the Catholic Church offers challenges for believers and answers for all those interested in learning about the mystery of the Catholic faith.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church is a positive, coherent and contemporary map for our spiritual journey toward transformation.
846 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1992
5061 people are currently reading
7932 people want to read
About the author
Catholic Church
3,880 books175 followersThe Catholic Church, also known as the Roman Catholic Church, is the world's largest Christian church. Led by the Pope, it defines its mission as spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ, administering the sacraments and exercising charity. The Catholic Church is among the oldest institutions in the world and has played a prominent role in the history of Western civilisation. It teaches that it is the church founded by Jesus Christ, that its bishops are the successors of Christ's apostles and that the Pope is the successor to Saint Peter. Catholic doctrine maintains that the Church is infallible when it dogmatically teaches a doctrine of faith or morals. Catholic worship is centred on the Eucharist in which the Church teaches bread and wine are supernaturally transubstantiated into the body and blood of Christ. The Church holds the Blessed Virgin Mary in special regard. Catholic beliefs concerning Mary include her Immaculate Conception and bodily Assumption at the end of her earthly life.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 526 reviews
Currently reading
February 26, 2008Geez...it actually makes sense. I think I'm a closet Catholic.
December 31, 2023
Finished up listening along with Father Mike Schmitz's Catechism in a Year podcast which was really wonderful. This was my second time through and it won't be my last.
==========
I have never actually read through the entire Catechism. The Catechism is often thought of as the Catholic "rule book" and that is true in a way because a catechism is a summary of Catholic belief. However, it is not couched as we would normally think of a "rule book." The Catechism flows through four big ideas: The Profession of Faith, The Celebration of the Christian Mystery, Life in Christ, and Christian Prayer. There is a good explanatory article here by Mary DeTurris Poust who wrote The Idiot's Guide to the Catechism, which I also recommend. At any rate, it is worded in a way that definitely promotes deeper thought, prayer, and reflection although I have used it more as a reference than anything else.
I began reading the Catechism from the beginning when Pope Benedict XVI encouraged Catholics to read and reflect upon the Catechism during the year of faith which began Oct. 11, 2012. That was a long time ago and yet I am not discouraged because every time I pick it up I gain a lot.
I've picked it up again along with A Year With the Catechism which, needless to say, I am not worried about working through in a year.
And now, far in the future from when I wrote the words above, I am on the home stretch. What will I do when I am done? Begin again. This has been a slow but enriching process.
==========
I have never actually read through the entire Catechism. The Catechism is often thought of as the Catholic "rule book" and that is true in a way because a catechism is a summary of Catholic belief. However, it is not couched as we would normally think of a "rule book." The Catechism flows through four big ideas: The Profession of Faith, The Celebration of the Christian Mystery, Life in Christ, and Christian Prayer. There is a good explanatory article here by Mary DeTurris Poust who wrote The Idiot's Guide to the Catechism, which I also recommend. At any rate, it is worded in a way that definitely promotes deeper thought, prayer, and reflection although I have used it more as a reference than anything else.
I began reading the Catechism from the beginning when Pope Benedict XVI encouraged Catholics to read and reflect upon the Catechism during the year of faith which began Oct. 11, 2012. That was a long time ago and yet I am not discouraged because every time I pick it up I gain a lot.
I've picked it up again along with A Year With the Catechism which, needless to say, I am not worried about working through in a year.
And now, far in the future from when I wrote the words above, I am on the home stretch. What will I do when I am done? Begin again. This has been a slow but enriching process.
January 2, 2019
Updated Jan 2, 2019 for incorrect link
December 22, 2017: This was my third full time to read the Catechism all the way through, though I have read many parts of it piecemeal.
This time I read it using an online service which you can subscribe to here. I highly recommend it as a painless way to read though the CCC in a year. You only receive emails during the week; two days off for week-ends.
Even if you get behind you can catch-up later just by saving the email notifications. They also offer a similar service to learn the Popes in a year. The papal information often verged on the silly to me, but I suppose that was to lighten the serious subject nature. I found it irksome.
The Catechism material is presented in a straightforward manner, no silliness. It is not in lieu of reading the actual Catechism, however. It is just a question and answer about a section of the material. Then you are encouraged to go to the actual text and read more. Effective way to study this important document for all Catholics.
January 2, 2017: The first time I did it on my own with a video series. The second time reading aloud with my husband and now I'm getting an email every day. Just like with the Bible, I am happy when I do read it, though it isn't the first book I would naturally reach for. I wish I could say it was. I am envious of those saints who never wanted to read anything but Holy Scripture, but that isn't me. :( I'm still praying for that grace...
<><><><><><><><><><>
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) is probably the most difficult book I’ve ever attempted to review—and also one which matters more to me than all the rest. As such, I can’t write about it like some dry theological tome which the vast majority couldn’t understand and the rest wouldn’t bother with even though they could. Experience with using the CCC has taught me that it’s anything but a dusty religious relic. For years I approached the Catechism tentatively and with trepidation, as though it would be much too difficult for the average Catholic (such as myself) to understand, failing to appreciate as most people do that the average Catholic is precisely who the book is written for and to. It's easy to use, well-organized, fully-indexed, cross-referenced throughout, and footnoted with thousands upon thousands of quotes, especially from Holy Scripture, but also the early Church Fathers and saints.
If you don’t have a copy, it’s available on-line here and here. The advantage of the on-line versions are the almost infinite number of links! Catholic geek heaven.
I marked this as ‘read’ but I wish GR had a category for constantly-reading.
EVERYTHING you always wanted to know about the Catholic Church but never bothered to ask.
========================================
December 12, 2013, Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe: FINISHED IT! And much sooner than I expected to. My review is going to take a little while however as I want to go back over my highlights and margin notes before writing anything. So glad I read it!
Thanks Nicola for the quotes! I have highlighted so many good ones in my own copy. Need to go back when I finish and enter (at least some of them!)
Nov 23, 2013 Update: Just starting into 3rd Pillar, 'Life in Christ'- Christian Morality, and discovering it to be even better than first two pillars, so it keeps getting better ... and I already know the 4th part (Prayer) is my favorite.
Oct 26, 2013 Update: Have finished the first 5 Parts in "The Pilgrimage of Faith" study and they are excellent, but the Catechism itself is the real treasure. Didn't realize how much was here nor how much I was missing out on by not reading before now.
><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
I can still remember the day I was walking in the mall and saw this featured in a Waldenbook display. Why was I so surprised to see a 'catechism' in among the bestsellers? Little did I know then the long arduous process this book had to undergo to make its way to that bookstore. My other thought was, "Vatican II ended in 1965. This is the 1990's. Why has it taken almost thirty years to publish a new catechism?" Why indeed?!
I have always wanted to do a cover-to-cover read, instead of a 'dip my toe into the water' here or there. Now I have this study guide called: Catechism: A Pilgrimage of Faith which I'm going to use as a study guide while I read.
December 22, 2017: This was my third full time to read the Catechism all the way through, though I have read many parts of it piecemeal.
This time I read it using an online service which you can subscribe to here. I highly recommend it as a painless way to read though the CCC in a year. You only receive emails during the week; two days off for week-ends.
Even if you get behind you can catch-up later just by saving the email notifications. They also offer a similar service to learn the Popes in a year. The papal information often verged on the silly to me, but I suppose that was to lighten the serious subject nature. I found it irksome.
The Catechism material is presented in a straightforward manner, no silliness. It is not in lieu of reading the actual Catechism, however. It is just a question and answer about a section of the material. Then you are encouraged to go to the actual text and read more. Effective way to study this important document for all Catholics.
January 2, 2017: The first time I did it on my own with a video series. The second time reading aloud with my husband and now I'm getting an email every day. Just like with the Bible, I am happy when I do read it, though it isn't the first book I would naturally reach for. I wish I could say it was. I am envious of those saints who never wanted to read anything but Holy Scripture, but that isn't me. :( I'm still praying for that grace...
<><><><><><><><><><>
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) is probably the most difficult book I’ve ever attempted to review—and also one which matters more to me than all the rest. As such, I can’t write about it like some dry theological tome which the vast majority couldn’t understand and the rest wouldn’t bother with even though they could. Experience with using the CCC has taught me that it’s anything but a dusty religious relic. For years I approached the Catechism tentatively and with trepidation, as though it would be much too difficult for the average Catholic (such as myself) to understand, failing to appreciate as most people do that the average Catholic is precisely who the book is written for and to. It's easy to use, well-organized, fully-indexed, cross-referenced throughout, and footnoted with thousands upon thousands of quotes, especially from Holy Scripture, but also the early Church Fathers and saints.
If you don’t have a copy, it’s available on-line here and here. The advantage of the on-line versions are the almost infinite number of links! Catholic geek heaven.
I marked this as ‘read’ but I wish GR had a category for constantly-reading.
EVERYTHING you always wanted to know about the Catholic Church but never bothered to ask.
========================================
December 12, 2013, Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe: FINISHED IT! And much sooner than I expected to. My review is going to take a little while however as I want to go back over my highlights and margin notes before writing anything. So glad I read it!
Thanks Nicola for the quotes! I have highlighted so many good ones in my own copy. Need to go back when I finish and enter (at least some of them!)
Nov 23, 2013 Update: Just starting into 3rd Pillar, 'Life in Christ'- Christian Morality, and discovering it to be even better than first two pillars, so it keeps getting better ... and I already know the 4th part (Prayer) is my favorite.
Oct 26, 2013 Update: Have finished the first 5 Parts in "The Pilgrimage of Faith" study and they are excellent, but the Catechism itself is the real treasure. Didn't realize how much was here nor how much I was missing out on by not reading before now.
><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
I can still remember the day I was walking in the mall and saw this featured in a Waldenbook display. Why was I so surprised to see a 'catechism' in among the bestsellers? Little did I know then the long arduous process this book had to undergo to make its way to that bookstore. My other thought was, "Vatican II ended in 1965. This is the 1990's. Why has it taken almost thirty years to publish a new catechism?" Why indeed?!
I have always wanted to do a cover-to-cover read, instead of a 'dip my toe into the water' here or there. Now I have this study guide called: Catechism: A Pilgrimage of Faith which I'm going to use as a study guide while I read.
February 7, 2008
For every Catholic and for anyone who has honest questions about Catholicism. "Why the rosary?...Why Mary...Why communion?...etcetera." This book has direct Biblical reference (by Chapter and verse) to every question that could be possible asked of Catholics. A great resource for Apologetic discussions.
December 27, 2015
Yes, as a baptist I read the Catholic catechism. I wanted to read what the Catholic church said rather than get it from others. There are some portions that are very, very good. The section on the Apostle's Creed, Life in Christ, and the section are prayer.
Of course, there are things that I disagree with, but I can also say that many things I have been told Catholics believe did not come through in their catechism.
Of course, there are things that I disagree with, but I can also say that many things I have been told Catholics believe did not come through in their catechism.
March 9, 2014
This book will probably be on my currently reading list forever for two reasons. first because it is an invaluable tool for my formation and maturing in my faith....secondly, I can't figure out how to add shelves..LOL
going to finish it this year in the Year of FAith!!
going to finish it this year in the Year of FAith!!
September 13, 2012
The trouble with reading a book like this one is that it will sabotage all the preconceptions you have so carefully formed over the years about what Catholics really believe. This was an encouraging and often edifying read.
That said, I have many fundamental disagreements with the Roman Catholic church. However, not as many as I thought I possessed!
I would strongly suggest that you read this along with the official documents of Vatican II so that you can see in full the official dogma of Catholicism when the Catechism references the Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Dei Verbum, the Lumen Gentium, or the Gaudium et Spes.
Another excellent companion resource to the Catechism would be Peter Kreeft's Catholic Christianity: A Complete Catechism of Catholic Beliefs Based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
An interesting historical note is how clear the influence of Modernity has been in shaping the Roman Catholic Church as seen in Vatican II and this Catechism. Pope Pius X would be appalled. :-)
That said, I have many fundamental disagreements with the Roman Catholic church. However, not as many as I thought I possessed!
I would strongly suggest that you read this along with the official documents of Vatican II so that you can see in full the official dogma of Catholicism when the Catechism references the Sacrosanctum Concilium, the Dei Verbum, the Lumen Gentium, or the Gaudium et Spes.
Another excellent companion resource to the Catechism would be Peter Kreeft's Catholic Christianity: A Complete Catechism of Catholic Beliefs Based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
An interesting historical note is how clear the influence of Modernity has been in shaping the Roman Catholic Church as seen in Vatican II and this Catechism. Pope Pius X would be appalled. :-)
March 2, 2025
I read this book while doing Catechism in a year with Fr. Mike Schmitz. I really enjoyed the podcast, it helped understanding the book and God.
April 5, 2025
How do I even begin to articulate the ways in which reading the Catechism of the Catholic Church has encouraged, amazed, challenged, convicted, strengthened, clarified, and invigorated my faith over this past year?
First off, I should probably disclose that I read this as a non-Catholic Christian. I've grown up as a cradle Protestant who has loved Jesus and the Church my entire life. Over the past 20 years of my life, I've marvelled at the close friendship God has blessed me with, in a wonderful Christian man who has grown up as a cradle Catholic, and who has also loved Jesus and the Church his entire life.
I'm ashamed to admit how thoroughly I've come to understand that growing up as a Protestant resulted in a deeply-rooted distrust and suspicion of the Catholic Church—and more importantly that these sentiments have been proven to be based on sweeping prejudices, ignorance, and stereotypes that were always easier to embrace than actually exploring what the differences between Catholic and Protestant Christians actually are. As I became closer and closer friends with this aforementioned Catholic man, I realized somewhere along the way that we were true Christian brothers, and that as we shared prayer requests and praise reports with each other, I also realized that we were travelling remarkably parallel journeys in our faith walks, and were wrestling with very similar life challenges and theological questions about how to live out our faith.
I finally realized, after yet another conversation with him that left me encouraged and strengthened in my faith walk, that I needed to confess my pride and ignorance before the Lord, and commit to a sincere and humble exploration of the ways in which we differed in our theological understanding, but also (and ultimately much more importantly) the ways in which we were unified in our beliefs. I could simply no longer easily dismiss the fact that here was a man who clearly loved Jesus and lived out a close and meaningful relationship with Him, AND used a different Scriptural canon than I did, prayed to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints in addition to Jesus, believed that the Eucharist was literally, and not symbolically, the Real Presence of Jesus, employed icons to direct his prayer time, and so on and so on. Clearly these differences in belief and faith practice were not "disqualifying" him from living as a Christian—his words, actions, and ministry fruit all pointed to the exact opposite.
I began seeking out Catholic speakers and podcasters on YouTube. Quite quickly, I discovered Father Mike Schmitz. I began watching his content, and was struck by the frequency with which he referred to "our non-Catholic brothers and sisters". I was taken aback. He was including me in his prayers and teaching. I began his Bible in a Year podcast. I still remember the trepidation I felt upon reaching the first Deuterocanonical book. He spoke once again to "my non-Catholic brothers and sisters who may never have read this book of the Bible before”. It was so engaging and invitational. I finished BIY for the first time, with tears streaming down my face on the last day of the Book of Revelations, and immediately did the entire thing for the second time. Never could I have believed that I could feel such tangible unity with and deep admiration and gratitude for a Catholic priest.
And by then, Father Mike's Catechism in a Year podcast had started dropping episodes. I was hooked! Doing BIY had done nothing but encourage and strengthen me in my faith, and I now had an intense longing to know more about the ins and outs of Catholic doctrine and theology. The CIY seemed like the natural next step.
It has blown my mind in every way.
Repeatedly, I was struck by how beautiful, practical, accessible, and rich the CCC is. It is divided into four pillars: "What We Believe," "How We Worship," "How We Live," and "How We Pray." Well... that seemed good to me!! And as I read through page after page after page, and listened to Father Mike's commentary and exposition of what I was hearing and learning, all I could think about was, "This is an integral part of my Christian heritage of which I've never before been aware. These saints are my brothers and sisters. These are 'my people'!"
I've grown to understand my Catholic brother and the Catholic community in a completely different way. I love them deeply as fellow Christian family. I'm praying through and processing the differences in our faith traditions about as fast as I think is humanly possible! I have a burning heart for the reunification of Christ's Bride.
Who knows exactly where the experience of this year with the CIY will lead? What I do know is that my gratitude for Pope Saint John Paul and the team of theologians and teachers who wrote the CCC, my praise and worship of the Father for their extraordinary gift to the Church, and my love of Christ's Body have never felt so impossible to express adequately.
Soli Deo Gloria
First off, I should probably disclose that I read this as a non-Catholic Christian. I've grown up as a cradle Protestant who has loved Jesus and the Church my entire life. Over the past 20 years of my life, I've marvelled at the close friendship God has blessed me with, in a wonderful Christian man who has grown up as a cradle Catholic, and who has also loved Jesus and the Church his entire life.
I'm ashamed to admit how thoroughly I've come to understand that growing up as a Protestant resulted in a deeply-rooted distrust and suspicion of the Catholic Church—and more importantly that these sentiments have been proven to be based on sweeping prejudices, ignorance, and stereotypes that were always easier to embrace than actually exploring what the differences between Catholic and Protestant Christians actually are. As I became closer and closer friends with this aforementioned Catholic man, I realized somewhere along the way that we were true Christian brothers, and that as we shared prayer requests and praise reports with each other, I also realized that we were travelling remarkably parallel journeys in our faith walks, and were wrestling with very similar life challenges and theological questions about how to live out our faith.
I finally realized, after yet another conversation with him that left me encouraged and strengthened in my faith walk, that I needed to confess my pride and ignorance before the Lord, and commit to a sincere and humble exploration of the ways in which we differed in our theological understanding, but also (and ultimately much more importantly) the ways in which we were unified in our beliefs. I could simply no longer easily dismiss the fact that here was a man who clearly loved Jesus and lived out a close and meaningful relationship with Him, AND used a different Scriptural canon than I did, prayed to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints in addition to Jesus, believed that the Eucharist was literally, and not symbolically, the Real Presence of Jesus, employed icons to direct his prayer time, and so on and so on. Clearly these differences in belief and faith practice were not "disqualifying" him from living as a Christian—his words, actions, and ministry fruit all pointed to the exact opposite.
I began seeking out Catholic speakers and podcasters on YouTube. Quite quickly, I discovered Father Mike Schmitz. I began watching his content, and was struck by the frequency with which he referred to "our non-Catholic brothers and sisters". I was taken aback. He was including me in his prayers and teaching. I began his Bible in a Year podcast. I still remember the trepidation I felt upon reaching the first Deuterocanonical book. He spoke once again to "my non-Catholic brothers and sisters who may never have read this book of the Bible before”. It was so engaging and invitational. I finished BIY for the first time, with tears streaming down my face on the last day of the Book of Revelations, and immediately did the entire thing for the second time. Never could I have believed that I could feel such tangible unity with and deep admiration and gratitude for a Catholic priest.
And by then, Father Mike's Catechism in a Year podcast had started dropping episodes. I was hooked! Doing BIY had done nothing but encourage and strengthen me in my faith, and I now had an intense longing to know more about the ins and outs of Catholic doctrine and theology. The CIY seemed like the natural next step.
It has blown my mind in every way.
Repeatedly, I was struck by how beautiful, practical, accessible, and rich the CCC is. It is divided into four pillars: "What We Believe," "How We Worship," "How We Live," and "How We Pray." Well... that seemed good to me!! And as I read through page after page after page, and listened to Father Mike's commentary and exposition of what I was hearing and learning, all I could think about was, "This is an integral part of my Christian heritage of which I've never before been aware. These saints are my brothers and sisters. These are 'my people'!"
I've grown to understand my Catholic brother and the Catholic community in a completely different way. I love them deeply as fellow Christian family. I'm praying through and processing the differences in our faith traditions about as fast as I think is humanly possible! I have a burning heart for the reunification of Christ's Bride.
Who knows exactly where the experience of this year with the CIY will lead? What I do know is that my gratitude for Pope Saint John Paul and the team of theologians and teachers who wrote the CCC, my praise and worship of the Father for their extraordinary gift to the Church, and my love of Christ's Body have never felt so impossible to express adequately.
Soli Deo Gloria
March 30, 2021
I listened to an unabridged audiobook which is 20 hours long.
One of my issues with the U.S. Constitution is that it has roughly 7,500 words in the text, but the case law that derives from it takes up boundless volumes.
In Catholic teaching there is a somewhat similar concern. With Jesus Christ being quoted as saying roughly 31,000 words in New Testament. So in essence 31,000 words turned into many tens of thousands of pages of intereptations in all the church teachings over the past 2,000 years. This book at 864 pages helps explain how that came to be. It gives the background of where current church doctrine originated. It's very well referenced.
In particular, Chapter 7 (explaining the sacraments) was eye opening.
One of my issues with the U.S. Constitution is that it has roughly 7,500 words in the text, but the case law that derives from it takes up boundless volumes.
In Catholic teaching there is a somewhat similar concern. With Jesus Christ being quoted as saying roughly 31,000 words in New Testament. So in essence 31,000 words turned into many tens of thousands of pages of intereptations in all the church teachings over the past 2,000 years. This book at 864 pages helps explain how that came to be. It gives the background of where current church doctrine originated. It's very well referenced.
In particular, Chapter 7 (explaining the sacraments) was eye opening.
December 1, 2013
An absolute read for every Catholic and anyone wanting to know what the Catholic Church actually teaches. Don't take your information from television, the newspaper, your neighbour or even another Catholic to start with. If you want the real, honest teaching, look it up here. I've dabbled in the Catechism many times, looking things up and following rabbit trails. However, I read the Catechism from start to finish using a schedule during the entire year of 2013. Brief readings every single day, ending late November. I can't actually review the Catechism; these are just my thoughts. It is a book of teaching (catechism actually means instructions), rules, explanations and a guide on how to live your life the way Jesus asks us to in the Bible and through oral tradition. Any question you may have about Catholic doctrine or Christian living is answered within these pages. Almost the entire book I found enlightening and I'm glad I can say I have read the whole thing. I found many passages that I've heard spoken by Popes, famous Catholic personages, priests etc. that have been accredited to them but really is just them knowing the Church's teaching so well they can almost quote the Catechism verbatim. I'll admit some parts were a little tedious and boring for me, it depends on how in depth on a topic you need to personally go, but by far and large I was captivated by most of the reading. Scripture, the Church Fathers and Doctors of the Church (as well as many other Saints) are quoted extensively, so we are reading a lot of original source material. The section on the Church's teaching of social justice (which denounces both communism and capitalism), is one where we could only wonder at how perfect and peaceful life on earth would be if all mankind could live according to the Body of Christ. I find that having read this all the way through I have become a better Christian, a better Catholic, am able to explain my Faith a bit better and live it much better. I don't think I'll read it front to back anytime soon (though that season may come again at some point) but Ill certainly be pulling it out frequently to see what exactly the Church's teaching is on a subject before I sound off, make a personal decision or try to explain a delicate concept. You can't live your faith without knowing what that faith is, and the Catechism is where you can first go to get the answers. Don't get me wrong, this in know way replaces the Bible. It's purpose is completely different. Don't let its size intimidate you either, as it is not difficult reading at all and can be read topically or randomly. But as a Catholic one should never presume or assume one knows what the Church teaches, find out for yourself; the correct answers are only as far as this book which should be on a shelf in your home or office.
December 31, 2023
This book will take 365 days to read, each having a reading and explanation with Fr, Mike Schmitz.
Catechism in a Year is also available on all major podcast platforms, the Hallow app, and YouTube!
Here is the blurb about this book:
"In Ascension’s The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides you through the entire Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 episodes, providing explanation, insight, and encouragement along the way.
"Unlike any other Catechism podcast, The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) podcast follows a reading plan inspired by Ascension’s Foundations of Faith approach, a color-coded approach that reveals the structure of the Catechism, making it easier to read and understand. With this podcast, you’ll finally understand what it means to be Catholic and how the beliefs of the Catholic Faith come together.
"Listen and…
"Read the ENTIRE Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 days
"Understand the essentials of the Catholic Faith and why they matter
"Understand how Church teaching is rooted in Sacred Scripture
"Absorb over 2,000 years of Sacred Tradition
"Encounter God’s plan of sheer goodness for your life
"Each 15-20 minute episode includes:
A guided prayer to help you enter into each episode
A reading from the Catechism of the Catholic Church
An explanation from Fr. Mike Schmitz about the reading
"The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised."
Day 365. I have finished reading this catechism with Fr. Mike. I'm so grateful for his wisdom and his sharing with those of us who read with him and listened to his comments. I highly recommend.
Catechism in a Year is also available on all major podcast platforms, the Hallow app, and YouTube!
Here is the blurb about this book:
"In Ascension’s The Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz guides you through the entire Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 episodes, providing explanation, insight, and encouragement along the way.
"Unlike any other Catechism podcast, The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) podcast follows a reading plan inspired by Ascension’s Foundations of Faith approach, a color-coded approach that reveals the structure of the Catechism, making it easier to read and understand. With this podcast, you’ll finally understand what it means to be Catholic and how the beliefs of the Catholic Faith come together.
"Listen and…
"Read the ENTIRE Catechism of the Catholic Church in 365 days
"Understand the essentials of the Catholic Faith and why they matter
"Understand how Church teaching is rooted in Sacred Scripture
"Absorb over 2,000 years of Sacred Tradition
"Encounter God’s plan of sheer goodness for your life
"Each 15-20 minute episode includes:
A guided prayer to help you enter into each episode
A reading from the Catechism of the Catholic Church
An explanation from Fr. Mike Schmitz about the reading
"The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised."
Day 365. I have finished reading this catechism with Fr. Mike. I'm so grateful for his wisdom and his sharing with those of us who read with him and listened to his comments. I highly recommend.
October 14, 2021
I have never actually read through the entire Catechism. The Catechism is often thought of as the Catholic "rule book" and that is true in a way because a catechism is a summary of Catholic belief. However, it is not couched as we would normally think of a "rule book." The Catechism flows through four big ideas: The Profession of Faith, The Celebration of the Christian Mystery, Life in Christ, and Christian Prayer. There is a good explanatory article here by Mary DeTurris Poust who wrote The Idiot's Guide to the Catechism, which I also recommend. At any rate, it is worded in a way that definitely promotes deeper thought, prayer, and reflection although I have used it more as a reference than anything else.
I began reading the Catechism from the beginning when Pope Benedict XVI encouraged Catholics to read and reflect upon the Catechism during the year of faith which began Oct. 11, 2012. That was a long time ago and yet I am not discouraged because every time I pick it up I gain a lot.
I've picked it up again along with A Year With the Catechism which, needless to say, I am not worried about working through in a year.
And now, far in the future from when I wrote the words above, I am on the home stretch. What will I do when I am done? Begin again. This has been a slow but enriching process.
May 27, 2018
5+ stars.
Not even Catholic, but never have I read a more comprehensive book on the Christian faith. I started it almost a year and a half ago, but from what I remember earlier parts of it were often dense. Push through these bits! It’s worth the effort, and the going does get easier.
Not even Catholic, but never have I read a more comprehensive book on the Christian faith. I started it almost a year and a half ago, but from what I remember earlier parts of it were often dense. Push through these bits! It’s worth the effort, and the going does get easier.
November 20, 2010
I think I have to give it a 5 star because I'm Catholic and I'd have to go to confession if I didn't.
September 1, 2016
A must read for all Catholics.
August 9, 2025
Thank you Fr. Mike for the Catechism is 3 years 🫣
May 1, 2014
So what do I think about the Catechism of the Catholic Church?
Might as well ask, 'What do I think about the Bible?'
The CCC can be called the 'Bible' of the Roman Catholic Church. It is divided into four parts:
1) The Creed, which was written at the Council of Jerusalem in 50 AD. Any Christian should know it by heart, "We believe in God ..." But few Christians fully understand what they are professing. Part one reaffirms the intention that has not changed for two thousand years.
2) The Sacraments are what Christians hold sacred: the three sacraments of initiation, the two sacraments of healing, and the two sacraments of service, which are Holy Orders and Matrimony. Catholics and non-Catholics alike should read the service part to better understand the Christian political point of view for the society they serve.
3) The Body of Christ reaffirms the Judaic belief that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God. The US Constitution is based on this ethic and morality.
4) Christian Prayer is the human communication with God. The story of Adam and Eve speaks to an age old need for humanity to be in a personal loving relationship with creation and the Creator.
The CCC is written like a text book, but it should be read like the Bible. Just as one allows the Holy Spirit to speak through Scripture, so should one allow the human heart to lead while reading the CCC.
Might as well ask, 'What do I think about the Bible?'
The CCC can be called the 'Bible' of the Roman Catholic Church. It is divided into four parts:
1) The Creed, which was written at the Council of Jerusalem in 50 AD. Any Christian should know it by heart, "We believe in God ..." But few Christians fully understand what they are professing. Part one reaffirms the intention that has not changed for two thousand years.
2) The Sacraments are what Christians hold sacred: the three sacraments of initiation, the two sacraments of healing, and the two sacraments of service, which are Holy Orders and Matrimony. Catholics and non-Catholics alike should read the service part to better understand the Christian political point of view for the society they serve.
3) The Body of Christ reaffirms the Judaic belief that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God. The US Constitution is based on this ethic and morality.
4) Christian Prayer is the human communication with God. The story of Adam and Eve speaks to an age old need for humanity to be in a personal loving relationship with creation and the Creator.
The CCC is written like a text book, but it should be read like the Bible. Just as one allows the Holy Spirit to speak through Scripture, so should one allow the human heart to lead while reading the CCC.
April 29, 2025
My class has had the privilege this semester of meeting with Dr. Brant Pitre once a month to discuss the Catechism, and he truly put it best when he said (paraphrasing), “If the Catechism had been written by one person it would be considered the greatest spiritual work of all-time. It doesn’t get the credit it deserves, because it was commissioned by the Church.”
I can’t wait to do the Catechism in a Year read-through next year and be able to spend more time with each section. Truly incredible stuff.
I can’t wait to do the Catechism in a Year read-through next year and be able to spend more time with each section. Truly incredible stuff.
January 23, 2017
This is a wonderful volume. It has been criticized for being dry and overly verbose, and then defended by its encyclopedic nature. But I don't find it to be all that dry, and actually read the entire thing over the course of a year and quite enjoyed doing so. It's a great reference. I have both the small white hardcover edition, which makes for easy reading, and the large green edition, which is unwieldy but has a great index along with other supplements. A must-have for any Catholic home.
April 13, 2019
There are more misconceptions or misunderstanding of the teachings of the Church Christ left us to hand on the faith. This book is a gift to anyone wanted to understand what the actual teachings are on almost any topic and what the foundational sources are for those teachings. Great and readable resource for any Catholic or anyone interested in what it is the Church actually teachings and why.
September 4, 2007
Essential reading for any Catholic... Helps so many things to click and make sense. A good resource for any Catholic bookshelf. One that you can go back to over and over for any questions that may arise or ongoing faith formation.
September 10, 2008
This book will probably be on my currently reading list forever for two reasons. First because it is an invaluable tool for my formation and maturing in my faith....secondly because I got this great idea for leaving it on my 'currently reading list' from Montanamom! Thanks MM! ☺
March 14, 2008
This catechism is not "user-friendly" in any way. I find it very confusing, and as someone else has noted, far too wordy.
December 3, 2015
E finito! I am so proud of myself. I did it! Take that Baltimore Catechism, take that! OK, I must admit I am still going to randomly blabber Baltimore Cathecism answers because I still dig them.
October 19, 2014
This book is NOT Catholic. It is totally evil; for it purports to be authoritative and definitive about the doctrines of the Catholic Church when the truth is just the opposite. It doesn't deserve even 1 star but there was no lower rating I could give. It is filled with heresy and apostasy which is no surprise because John Paul 2 was not a true pope but a manifest heretic and an apostate antipope. There have been over 40 antipopes in Church history. John 23, Paul 6, John Paul 1, John Paul 2, Benedict 16, and Francis have proven to be heretics over and over and over and over again. The proof is undeniable. Some of the heresies this book teaches are that non-catholics can receive "Communion", that the old covenant is still "valid" and the jews should not be looked upon as rejected by God, which is directly contrary to what was infallibly declared in the Council of Florence confirmed by Pope Eugene IV which states that all those who reject the teachings about Our Lord are rejected by God and the Church.
Pope Eugene IV, Council of Florence, 1441, ex cathedra:
“The Holy Roman Church firmly believes, professes and teaches that the matter pertaining to the law of the Old Testament, the Mosaic law, which are divided into ceremonies, sacred rites, sacrifices, and sacraments… after our Lord’s coming… ceased, and the sacraments of the New Testament began… All, therefore, who after that time (the promulgation of the Gospel) observe circumcision and the Sabbath and the other requirements of the law, the holy Roman Church declares alien to the Christian faith and not in the least fit to participate in eternal salvation.”
The "catechism" of Jp2 teaches that man is "God", and it denies the fact that people are not born "gay". The truth is that homosexuality is unnatural and is a result of sins of impurity, idolatry, and apostasy.
Antipope John Paul II, New Catechism, #2357: “Homosexuality… Its psychological genesis remains largely unexplained.”
Romans 1- “Because that, when they knew God, they have not glorified him as God, or given thanks; but became vain in their thoughts, and their foolish heart was darkened... who changed the truth of God into a lie; and worshipped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God delivered them up to shameful affections. For their women have changed the natural use into that use which is against nature. And, in like manner, the men also, leaving the natural use of the women, have burned in their lusts one towards another, men with men working that which is filthy, and receiving in themselves the recompense which was due to their error.."
The truth is that people can be cured of any unnatural vice if they convert to the Traditional Catholic faith, pray the 15 decade Rosary every day, and make a good confession of all their mortal sins.
See this file for more information of this truth that people are not born "gay".
http://www.mostholyfamilymonastery.co...
It is a truly charitable thing to tell people who claim to be "gay" the truth that will set them free. What is not charitable is to confirm them in their sin and encourage them in a lie that will ultimately lead to their eternal ruin.
Most Holy Family Monastery has actually produced videos exposing JP2 for what he really is: an antipope and the antichrist predicted in the book of the Apocalypse/Revelation. For the Proof see these videos: The Antichrist Revealed: The Beast that Was, and Is Not, Has Returned- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPs7j...
"Saint" John Paul II Exposed-(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODV1S...)
“St.” John Paul II’s Heresies- (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAQ27...)
The truth is that there has not been a true pope reigning in Rome since the death of Pope Pius XII who died in 1958. The fact that the city of Rome would lose the Catholic faith at the end of the world and leave the Catholic Church through apostasy is prophesied in the book of Apocalypse/Rev., by the Blessed Virgin Mary, and by past true Popes.
Our Lady of La Salette—a Church approved apparition—said, “Rome will lose the faith and become the seat of the anti-christ, the Church will be in Eclipse.”
Pope Leo XIII, Satis Cognitum (#15), June 29, 1896: “… it is absurd to imagine that he who is outside the Church can command in the Church.”
We are now living through the great apostasy that was predicted to take place in the last days. Christ says that “But yet the Son of man, when he cometh, shall he find, think you, faith on earth?” –Luke 18:8. He also says, “For there shall arise false Christs and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders, insomuch as to deceive (if possible) even the elect.”-Matthew 24:24. What a person must understand is that the Catholic Church cannot defect. It cannot teach error to souls for it is the Immaculate Bride of Christ always faithful to His Doctrine until the end of time. The Catholic Church is the one true Church of Jesus Christ and He founded it upon St. Peter. The Whore of Babylon is NOT the Catholic Church. The Whore of Babylon is in actuality the counterfeit-“Catholic Church” that takes over the Vatican in last days. The Whore is a false sect where a false “hierarchy” dress exteriorly like the Catholic Church, but inwardly is fraudulent, headed by antipopes, and devoid of the Apostolic faith. The mission of these antipopes is clear, it is to try and destroy the Catholic faith—which is impossible—to try and deceive people claiming to be Catholics into accepting the false religion these antipopes promote. The whore of Babylon seeks to be in communion with every false religion of the devil. She spews heresy and apostasy daily and loves to spread religious indifferentism, satanic syncretism, that man is “God”, that people can be saved in false religions, etc. Those wicked false doctrines are solemnly condemned by the true Popes as heresy and apostasy that places anyone who accepts those heresies obstinately as outside the Catholic Church.
Pope Eugene IV, Council of Florence, “Cantate Domino,” 1441, ex cathedra: “The Holy Roman Church firmly believes, professes and preaches that all those who are outside the Catholic Church, not only pagans but also Jews or heretics and schismatics, cannot share in eternal life and will go into the everlasting fire which was prepared for the devil and his angels, unless they are joined to the Church before the end of their lives; that the unity of this ecclesiastical body is of such importance that only those who abide in it do the Church’s sacraments contribute to salvation and do fasts, almsgiving and other works of piety and practices of the Christian militia produce eternal rewards; and that nobody can be saved, no matter how much he has given away in alms and even if he has shed blood in the name of Christ, unless he has persevered in the bosom and unity of the Catholic Church.”
Eugene IV, Council of Florence, Sess.8, Nov.22, 1439, ex cathedra: “Whoever wishes to be saved, needs above all to hold the Catholic faith; unless each one preserves this whole and inviolate, he will without a doubt perish in eternity.”
Pope Leo XIII, Satis Cognitum (# 9), June 29, 1896: "The practice of the Church has always been the same, as is shown by the unanimous teaching of the Fathers, who were wont to hold as outside Catholic communion, and alien to the Church, whoever would recede in the least degree from any point of doctrine proposed by her authoritative Magisterium."
Pope Innocent III, Eius exemplo, Dec. 18, 1208: "By the heart we believe and by the mouth we confess the one Church, not of heretics, but the Holy Roman, Catholic, and Apostolic Church outside of which we believe that no one is saved."
It is imperative that people convert to the Traditional Catholic faith if they do not want to be damned. I say this in true charity. The information on how to convert to the Traditional Catholic faith can be found on the website www.vaticancatholic.com
Pope Eugene IV, Council of Florence, 1441, ex cathedra:
“The Holy Roman Church firmly believes, professes and teaches that the matter pertaining to the law of the Old Testament, the Mosaic law, which are divided into ceremonies, sacred rites, sacrifices, and sacraments… after our Lord’s coming… ceased, and the sacraments of the New Testament began… All, therefore, who after that time (the promulgation of the Gospel) observe circumcision and the Sabbath and the other requirements of the law, the holy Roman Church declares alien to the Christian faith and not in the least fit to participate in eternal salvation.”
The "catechism" of Jp2 teaches that man is "God", and it denies the fact that people are not born "gay". The truth is that homosexuality is unnatural and is a result of sins of impurity, idolatry, and apostasy.
Antipope John Paul II, New Catechism, #2357: “Homosexuality… Its psychological genesis remains largely unexplained.”
Romans 1- “Because that, when they knew God, they have not glorified him as God, or given thanks; but became vain in their thoughts, and their foolish heart was darkened... who changed the truth of God into a lie; and worshipped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God delivered them up to shameful affections. For their women have changed the natural use into that use which is against nature. And, in like manner, the men also, leaving the natural use of the women, have burned in their lusts one towards another, men with men working that which is filthy, and receiving in themselves the recompense which was due to their error.."
The truth is that people can be cured of any unnatural vice if they convert to the Traditional Catholic faith, pray the 15 decade Rosary every day, and make a good confession of all their mortal sins.
See this file for more information of this truth that people are not born "gay".
http://www.mostholyfamilymonastery.co...
It is a truly charitable thing to tell people who claim to be "gay" the truth that will set them free. What is not charitable is to confirm them in their sin and encourage them in a lie that will ultimately lead to their eternal ruin.
Most Holy Family Monastery has actually produced videos exposing JP2 for what he really is: an antipope and the antichrist predicted in the book of the Apocalypse/Revelation. For the Proof see these videos: The Antichrist Revealed: The Beast that Was, and Is Not, Has Returned- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPs7j...
"Saint" John Paul II Exposed-(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODV1S...)
“St.” John Paul II’s Heresies- (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAQ27...)
The truth is that there has not been a true pope reigning in Rome since the death of Pope Pius XII who died in 1958. The fact that the city of Rome would lose the Catholic faith at the end of the world and leave the Catholic Church through apostasy is prophesied in the book of Apocalypse/Rev., by the Blessed Virgin Mary, and by past true Popes.
Our Lady of La Salette—a Church approved apparition—said, “Rome will lose the faith and become the seat of the anti-christ, the Church will be in Eclipse.”
Pope Leo XIII, Satis Cognitum (#15), June 29, 1896: “… it is absurd to imagine that he who is outside the Church can command in the Church.”
We are now living through the great apostasy that was predicted to take place in the last days. Christ says that “But yet the Son of man, when he cometh, shall he find, think you, faith on earth?” –Luke 18:8. He also says, “For there shall arise false Christs and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders, insomuch as to deceive (if possible) even the elect.”-Matthew 24:24. What a person must understand is that the Catholic Church cannot defect. It cannot teach error to souls for it is the Immaculate Bride of Christ always faithful to His Doctrine until the end of time. The Catholic Church is the one true Church of Jesus Christ and He founded it upon St. Peter. The Whore of Babylon is NOT the Catholic Church. The Whore of Babylon is in actuality the counterfeit-“Catholic Church” that takes over the Vatican in last days. The Whore is a false sect where a false “hierarchy” dress exteriorly like the Catholic Church, but inwardly is fraudulent, headed by antipopes, and devoid of the Apostolic faith. The mission of these antipopes is clear, it is to try and destroy the Catholic faith—which is impossible—to try and deceive people claiming to be Catholics into accepting the false religion these antipopes promote. The whore of Babylon seeks to be in communion with every false religion of the devil. She spews heresy and apostasy daily and loves to spread religious indifferentism, satanic syncretism, that man is “God”, that people can be saved in false religions, etc. Those wicked false doctrines are solemnly condemned by the true Popes as heresy and apostasy that places anyone who accepts those heresies obstinately as outside the Catholic Church.
Pope Eugene IV, Council of Florence, “Cantate Domino,” 1441, ex cathedra: “The Holy Roman Church firmly believes, professes and preaches that all those who are outside the Catholic Church, not only pagans but also Jews or heretics and schismatics, cannot share in eternal life and will go into the everlasting fire which was prepared for the devil and his angels, unless they are joined to the Church before the end of their lives; that the unity of this ecclesiastical body is of such importance that only those who abide in it do the Church’s sacraments contribute to salvation and do fasts, almsgiving and other works of piety and practices of the Christian militia produce eternal rewards; and that nobody can be saved, no matter how much he has given away in alms and even if he has shed blood in the name of Christ, unless he has persevered in the bosom and unity of the Catholic Church.”
Eugene IV, Council of Florence, Sess.8, Nov.22, 1439, ex cathedra: “Whoever wishes to be saved, needs above all to hold the Catholic faith; unless each one preserves this whole and inviolate, he will without a doubt perish in eternity.”
Pope Leo XIII, Satis Cognitum (# 9), June 29, 1896: "The practice of the Church has always been the same, as is shown by the unanimous teaching of the Fathers, who were wont to hold as outside Catholic communion, and alien to the Church, whoever would recede in the least degree from any point of doctrine proposed by her authoritative Magisterium."
Pope Innocent III, Eius exemplo, Dec. 18, 1208: "By the heart we believe and by the mouth we confess the one Church, not of heretics, but the Holy Roman, Catholic, and Apostolic Church outside of which we believe that no one is saved."
It is imperative that people convert to the Traditional Catholic faith if they do not want to be damned. I say this in true charity. The information on how to convert to the Traditional Catholic faith can be found on the website www.vaticancatholic.com
March 16, 2008
I hardly know where to start. Parts of this book have the potential for much good in the world. the actual Church that comes out of this document, or from which this document comes, depending on your point of view, is so morally bankrupt that one imagines they have had no exposure to the message of Jesus. Much of Christianity falls out based on the writings of Paul, the most successful, long term productive spy of all time. Sent as a Roman spy to destroy the church of Christ from within, he kind of steals leadership out from under the folks who Knew Jesus, declaring, and then making himself, and his words more import, historically, than those of any other biblical writer almost completely excluding Jesus' words.
The organization of the book makes it nearly impossible to follow a thought inside one chapter, much less connect it to another chapter. And written by men with their heads so deeply into their own importance that you can't believe much they say. never noting that all the religious groups based on Christianity lock onto Paul with all their fangs and claws, ignoring the quiet voice of Jesus to "love one another", to practice what Jesus preaches. Somehow I doubt that Jesus had in mind an annual washing of the feet of the largest donors to the parish annually when he said "As I have done, so you must do," to the disciples, having washed their feet.
So much is wrong about the way Catholicism actually functions. In no place have I found anything that addresses the fact that they are taking up special collections to bail out men whose lives are strictured into such an emotionally crippled state that they are turning to raping children to make sure they don't lean toward that most evil of sexual practices, intercourse (dare we say making love) with a woman. There is so much done badly in a big way that the bits of real goodness are driven away: The good people, the good priests, the good sisters, the good altar servers (the potential for evil befalling an altar server is too great to figure out in numbers. It's figured in millions of dollars.)
I have to stop now, this is too much evil to look at for very long, and I daresay the confused ramblings of this review are at least a match for the confused ramblings of the assorted people who built this book. It makes me crazy, so much evil masquerading as so much good, being filthy rich and bemoaning the fate of the poor. Sell a few rings and feed a small nation, Pope Ben!
Or better still, Sell a few rings and make a small nation self sufficient. And don't insist they become Catholic or die as the trade-off!
The organization of the book makes it nearly impossible to follow a thought inside one chapter, much less connect it to another chapter. And written by men with their heads so deeply into their own importance that you can't believe much they say. never noting that all the religious groups based on Christianity lock onto Paul with all their fangs and claws, ignoring the quiet voice of Jesus to "love one another", to practice what Jesus preaches. Somehow I doubt that Jesus had in mind an annual washing of the feet of the largest donors to the parish annually when he said "As I have done, so you must do," to the disciples, having washed their feet.
So much is wrong about the way Catholicism actually functions. In no place have I found anything that addresses the fact that they are taking up special collections to bail out men whose lives are strictured into such an emotionally crippled state that they are turning to raping children to make sure they don't lean toward that most evil of sexual practices, intercourse (dare we say making love) with a woman. There is so much done badly in a big way that the bits of real goodness are driven away: The good people, the good priests, the good sisters, the good altar servers (the potential for evil befalling an altar server is too great to figure out in numbers. It's figured in millions of dollars.)
I have to stop now, this is too much evil to look at for very long, and I daresay the confused ramblings of this review are at least a match for the confused ramblings of the assorted people who built this book. It makes me crazy, so much evil masquerading as so much good, being filthy rich and bemoaning the fate of the poor. Sell a few rings and feed a small nation, Pope Ben!
Or better still, Sell a few rings and make a small nation self sufficient. And don't insist they become Catholic or die as the trade-off!
April 23, 2025
"The sacred humanity of Jesus is therefore the way by which the Holy Spirit teaches us to pray to God our Father (page 706)."
WRITING STYLE: 3 stars.
Nay: This book is filled with long sentences that are hard to read.
Yay: It is expected. This book is written like the constitution and extension of the Holy Bible. It is a factual book. Therefore, I expected a lot of long sentences.
The strategy I did was to have a pencil with me every time. I made it a habit to chop those long sentences into parts.
After putting a slash and a circle in one sentence, I re-read it slowly for a better understanding.
Then, I put a sticky note on the page to avoid forgetting it.
Nay: This book is filled with catholic jargons and there is no glossary to peek what those words mean.
Yay: Patience is a virtue. Therefore, I took time to research every technical term. Many times, a technical term such as beatitude is explained within the paragraph.
If this happens, it was best to encircle the one word that defines the term.
Nay: The pronoun used for Jesus is not capitalized. Instead of He, it is written as he.
Yay: The way I observe it, when the pronoun is written in small letter, it describes Jesus as the human being than the divine entity.
It is, however, written in caps when describing Jesus as the Son of God who saves.
Moreover, the terms "God" and "Holy Spirit" are written in caps. It describes them as one God in different personas.
God is The Father, the creator of all things in the universe while the Holy Spirit, as the sanctifier, is the Spirit of the Father and Son.
QUALITY & SUBSTANCE: 5 stars.
Nay: Many Christian practices in catholic lens are strict. It makes me doubt if I can perfectly follow these.
Yay: Putting things in perspective, however, the Catholic Church wants the best for the humanity.
This book is written as a comprehensive guide to observe a righteous spiritual life with less sins than a lawless life overflowing with excuses to sin more.
The way I understand it, the Catholic Church is aware no one is perfect. Nobody can equal the reputation and character of God.
God is flawless. Humans are not.
In truth, this book is written methodically to educate and inspire Catholic Christians like me.
My spiritual identity improves. This identity balances my psychological identity.
Technically, this book has footnotes in each page. It becomes easy to locate the primary source of an idea.
Also, all throughout the book, there are remarkable quotes made by the saints such as Saint Paul and Saint Augustine.
Their quotes make the reading experience more special and unforgettable. At one point, Saint Cyril said something uplifting about the Sacrament of the Eucharist.
"Do not doubt whether this is true, but rather receive the words of the Savior in faith, for since He is the truth, He cannot lie (page 388)."
* *
This book is divided into 4 major parts:
Part 1: The Profession of Faith
Part 2: The Celebration of the Christian Mystery
Part 3: Life in Christ
Part 4: Christian Prayer
Each part has a section and each section has chapters. Under each chapter is an article. Each article slices a general topic into specific nuggets.
For example, the Sacrament of Baptism is the Article 1 under Chapter 1 of the Sacraments of Christian initiation. This chapter belongs under Part 2 of the Celebration of the Christian Mystery.
The Sacrament of Baptism as an Article is divided into seven nuggets. After the nuggets is a summary of what the Article is about.
* *
Of the major parts of the book, Part 3 is my favorite.
I love how it thoroughly discusses the dignity of a human person. Somehow, after reading the first chapter, I realize sins make me a helpless human being.
However, it is never an excuse to sin. A sin is still a sin no matter how venial it is.
That is why, sinning less is possible once I have accepted why to live and how to live with the four cardinal and three theological virtues.
Cardinal Virtues:
1) Prudence - This is the right reason in action according to Saint Thomas Aquinas.
2) Justice - This is respecting the rights of each person.
3) Fortitude - This virtue functions similarly like courage, overcoming obstacles of moral life.
4) Temperance - This moderates the attraction of pleasures.
Theological Virtues:
1) Faith - To believe in God even if He is not seen.
2) Hope - To place our trust in Christ's promises.
3) Charity - To love our neighbor as ourselves.
Part 4 also opens with the best definition I have read about prayer. This definition is made by Saint Therese of Lisieux. She said,
"Prayer is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy (page 677)."
With this definition alone, I now understand why I am praying with tears many times.
This means I humbled myself to share with Jesus Christ the sins I cannot delete in my system yet.
I need to be kind with myself for sinning less is not an overnight goal. Sinning less is a lifestyle.
It takes a long process to control the repetition of my sins. It takes surrendering to Jesus Christ to fully wash out the sins I cannot wash out all by myself.
As Sant Ignatius of Loyola said on page 750,
"Pray as if everything depended on God and work as if everything depended on you."
By the way, before ending this review, I can never pray The Lord's Prayer the way it was. It is a new day when I learn this is the prayer that goes beyond memorization.
The Lord's Prayer summarizes the Gospel, which is filled with 7 Petitions.
Question: What are these petitions? Answer: Read this book to know.
WRITING STYLE: 3 stars.
Nay: This book is filled with long sentences that are hard to read.
Yay: It is expected. This book is written like the constitution and extension of the Holy Bible. It is a factual book. Therefore, I expected a lot of long sentences.
The strategy I did was to have a pencil with me every time. I made it a habit to chop those long sentences into parts.
After putting a slash and a circle in one sentence, I re-read it slowly for a better understanding.
Then, I put a sticky note on the page to avoid forgetting it.
Nay: This book is filled with catholic jargons and there is no glossary to peek what those words mean.
Yay: Patience is a virtue. Therefore, I took time to research every technical term. Many times, a technical term such as beatitude is explained within the paragraph.
If this happens, it was best to encircle the one word that defines the term.
Nay: The pronoun used for Jesus is not capitalized. Instead of He, it is written as he.
Yay: The way I observe it, when the pronoun is written in small letter, it describes Jesus as the human being than the divine entity.
It is, however, written in caps when describing Jesus as the Son of God who saves.
Moreover, the terms "God" and "Holy Spirit" are written in caps. It describes them as one God in different personas.
God is The Father, the creator of all things in the universe while the Holy Spirit, as the sanctifier, is the Spirit of the Father and Son.
QUALITY & SUBSTANCE: 5 stars.
Nay: Many Christian practices in catholic lens are strict. It makes me doubt if I can perfectly follow these.
Yay: Putting things in perspective, however, the Catholic Church wants the best for the humanity.
This book is written as a comprehensive guide to observe a righteous spiritual life with less sins than a lawless life overflowing with excuses to sin more.
The way I understand it, the Catholic Church is aware no one is perfect. Nobody can equal the reputation and character of God.
God is flawless. Humans are not.
In truth, this book is written methodically to educate and inspire Catholic Christians like me.
My spiritual identity improves. This identity balances my psychological identity.
Technically, this book has footnotes in each page. It becomes easy to locate the primary source of an idea.
Also, all throughout the book, there are remarkable quotes made by the saints such as Saint Paul and Saint Augustine.
Their quotes make the reading experience more special and unforgettable. At one point, Saint Cyril said something uplifting about the Sacrament of the Eucharist.
"Do not doubt whether this is true, but rather receive the words of the Savior in faith, for since He is the truth, He cannot lie (page 388)."
* *
This book is divided into 4 major parts:
Part 1: The Profession of Faith
Part 2: The Celebration of the Christian Mystery
Part 3: Life in Christ
Part 4: Christian Prayer
Each part has a section and each section has chapters. Under each chapter is an article. Each article slices a general topic into specific nuggets.
For example, the Sacrament of Baptism is the Article 1 under Chapter 1 of the Sacraments of Christian initiation. This chapter belongs under Part 2 of the Celebration of the Christian Mystery.
The Sacrament of Baptism as an Article is divided into seven nuggets. After the nuggets is a summary of what the Article is about.
* *
Of the major parts of the book, Part 3 is my favorite.
I love how it thoroughly discusses the dignity of a human person. Somehow, after reading the first chapter, I realize sins make me a helpless human being.
However, it is never an excuse to sin. A sin is still a sin no matter how venial it is.
That is why, sinning less is possible once I have accepted why to live and how to live with the four cardinal and three theological virtues.
Cardinal Virtues:
1) Prudence - This is the right reason in action according to Saint Thomas Aquinas.
2) Justice - This is respecting the rights of each person.
3) Fortitude - This virtue functions similarly like courage, overcoming obstacles of moral life.
4) Temperance - This moderates the attraction of pleasures.
Theological Virtues:
1) Faith - To believe in God even if He is not seen.
2) Hope - To place our trust in Christ's promises.
3) Charity - To love our neighbor as ourselves.
Part 4 also opens with the best definition I have read about prayer. This definition is made by Saint Therese of Lisieux. She said,
"Prayer is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy (page 677)."
With this definition alone, I now understand why I am praying with tears many times.
This means I humbled myself to share with Jesus Christ the sins I cannot delete in my system yet.
I need to be kind with myself for sinning less is not an overnight goal. Sinning less is a lifestyle.
It takes a long process to control the repetition of my sins. It takes surrendering to Jesus Christ to fully wash out the sins I cannot wash out all by myself.
As Sant Ignatius of Loyola said on page 750,
"Pray as if everything depended on God and work as if everything depended on you."
By the way, before ending this review, I can never pray The Lord's Prayer the way it was. It is a new day when I learn this is the prayer that goes beyond memorization.
The Lord's Prayer summarizes the Gospel, which is filled with 7 Petitions.
Question: What are these petitions? Answer: Read this book to know.
May 20, 2025
Este guia é excelente para tirar todas as dúvidas em relação ao Catolicismo. Ele responde, mesmo que parcialmente, de forma introdutória, todas as dúvidas que possa ter sobre a fé, o credo, as orientações e ensinamentos da Igreja de Pedro nesses dois mil anos.
É leitura obrigatória para todos que buscam o Caminho, a Verdade e a Vida.
É leitura obrigatória para todos que buscam o Caminho, a Verdade e a Vida.
January 1, 2025
Thank you Jesus and thank you Fr. Mike Schmitz!! Such a beautiful journey this year learning about Christ and His Church! I love being Catholic!!🤍
Displaying 1 - 30 of 526 reviews