The Baltimore Catechism of the Catholic Church

Baltimore Catechism #4

by Thomas L. Kinkead

A number of efforts in the US during the nineteenth century were made to creating a single textbook of Roman Catholic Christian doctrine might be used by all American Catholics.

In 1885, a Catechism was put together by the Order of the Third Council of Baltimore. The desire of the council was to have a catechism "perfect in every respect" (Acta et Decr., p. 219). The result was a document that met with an overwhelming positive response. Almost all the American bishops gave their official approbation to the Catechism and soon numerous schools used the Baltimore Catechism as their standard religious education textbook. Various editions were put forth with additions of word-meanings, explanatory notes, so that there was considerable diversity among Baltimore Catechism. Nevertheless, this Catechism became the standard text for Catholic education in the United States for the next four generations.

However since the 1960s, many Catholic institutions have stopped using a catechism-based education.

This particular catechism is known as Baltimore Catechism, No. 4. Illustrations have been added to improved the readability.

Genres: Catholic, Religion, Christianity, Theology, Nonfiction, Reference

451 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1908

Reviews

[Gene Arthur Molloy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of the four volumes of The Baltimore Catechism this is the most in depth. Whilst the first three volumes deal with the subject matter on a scale that corresponds with a young person’s religious education at various stages of their lives, this fourth volume sums it all up, and explains things more deeply. It is more or less a teacher’s manual. This is a must read for those who are interested in learning the pre-conciliar Catholic faith.

[Daniel Millard · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Baltimore Catechism doesn't get the attention it deserves in the modern Church. This particular volume is not only quite slim and easily-digestible compared to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, but it's also laid out in a very functional format that provides clear explanation and makes all subjects very easy to find. In some places, it is actually clearer concerning canon law, though does it have the same robust citation system and massive mountain of references.

Honestly, most Catholics who legitimately want to know their faith should have to digest this prior to the sacrament of Confirmation. One would be better off reading this and keeping a copy handy than trying to tackle the CCC without the express attitude and approach of a scholar.

Even the Fourth version (the most advanced in concept and explanation) is easily readable for the average adult, and affords a detailed look into the basic truths of the faith (and the world), a rich explanation of the most necessary prayers, and a firm doctrinal foundation for a selfless life abundant in the freedom of God's grace.

[Mike Glaser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found a paper copy of this catechism going through my father’s things after he died. I had heard about it before but I had never read it. After reading this book, I was sorry that something like this had not been used in school when I was growing up. The Catholic Church needs to use this book or an updated one for religious education.

[Rebecca M. Mountain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Masterpiece

A beautiful yet simple explanation of the Holy Catholic Church. Great for anyone seeking a deeper understanding if the faith.

[Susan Molloy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Baltimore Catechism is the catechism of the Holy Roman Catholic Church, written for Catholic school children in the United States. This volume begins with the traditional prayers (Apostles Creed, the Our Father, the Hail Mary, Glory Be, Acts of Contrition, Love, et cetera). The chapters are broken down in discussing The Ten Commandments, the Sacraments, sins, Laws of the Church, and the like. At the back of this volume are traditional hymns.

This volume is easy to understand, with questions and answers that relate to the particular subject matter in each chapter. This is the catechism to read to learn (or remind oneself) of the true tenants of the Church, not the New Church of Vatican II.

This volume is written for the younger Roman Catholic student; each successive volume (through number 4) is more in-depth and appropriate to the student’s grade level.

I highly recommend this series.

🟤 Gutenberg Project.

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good

[Leila Chandler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found it much more interesting and inspiring than the new catechism.

[michael j kerezman sr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clear and concise. Throughly explained the faith that recent works often leave out. All Catholics should begin here for clear foundation.