Catholicism for Dummies (Paperback)

The style is easy-to-read, straight-forward, and the advice and information is always based on official Church teaching. So it is not a good place to go if you wish to join the Catholic Church because you like the stain glass windows but don't want to accept Church teachings. This does not mean the authors cover up or gloss over difficult issues. They clearly admit how some popes were awful, and they have harsh words for the minority of priests who sexually abuse children. They do put these issues in perspective, pointing out that the papacy has a better record than most secular leaders, and the sinfulness of Peter, who was still chosen as first of the apostles. They also compare molestation by priests to molestation within families, showing that within families it is far more rampant (without excusing bad priests' behavior!). These are fair and balanced assessments in my opinion. This is not an apologetics book, although it does go to some length to show the Faith in a positive light. While strict apologetics books (Protestant or otherwise) often leave me cold, this book was a delight to read.

I read this is an entire weekend, and felt prepared to visit a Catholic Church for the first time in years. In addition to using this book, I would recommend reading the Catechism, using The New Saint Joseph People's Prayer Book, and reading the early Church Fathers. The Faith of the Early Fathers by William Jurgens is a three volume set with excerpts from the Fathers. Scott Hahn's works are also recommended. Personally, I would say the best way to get a glimpse of the Catholic Church is to visit a Mass (but don't commune until you are a member!). Ultimately it was worshipping and praying with the Church that convinced me that Catholic was the way to go. Overall, Catholicism for Dummies is a good introduction to the Catholic Church, and tells you everything you really need to know in a concise and enjoyable way.

The information is presented in an easy to read, easy reference style. You learn why Catholics do certain things and why they don't do others. You get the Church's stand on certain major issues such as abortion, homosexuality and family planning.

This is a good book to introduce any non-Catholic to the beliefs of the Church. It also gives cradle Catholics a refresher course on their faith. I highly recommend this book for RCIA candidates and catechumens because it offers the Church's teachings in a quick-read format and can answer many questions for interested people. I wish I knew about this book when I was going through the RCIA process.

Another good introductory book to the Church is "Why Do Catholics Do That?" It's written by Kevin Orlin Johnson and is available here on Amazon. If books don't provide enough answers, attend RCIA classes, talk to Catholic friends, or talk to the local parish priest. These are all good resources for answers about the Church.

However, if you want a full explanation of the Church and her flock, get a copy of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. It can be difficult to read, especially if you are not familiar with many Catholic terms, but it provides an extensive and concise description of the Catholic Church. Reading the Catechism with the Bible will give you an even deeper understanding of the Church.

In summary, get this book as a starter. You can pick a topic of interest and read about it, or read the book from beginning to end. Either way, this book will answer most of your questions about Catholicism.