The Complete Idiot's Guide to Understanding Catholicism

Unlike the "Dummies" book on the topic, this book is fascinating and presents Catholic information for those who wish to use their own brains. It thoughtfully and respectfully presents the material and also considers differing sides of the issues. There are enough "Dummies" style books and "official" books that encourage Catholics not to think but to accept, like undeducated unsophisticated children, only the opinions of the powerful hierarchy. As the Church continues to turn its back on much of the great Vatican II council, books like these will become sparse and extremely valuable to Catholic seekers and those who want to know the real Catholic Church. You know that today's Church is not going to publish anything like it, nor will you see an imprimatur on such books. Would like to see an inexpensive addendum published so that new material from subsequent revisions will be available without having to constantly buy new books.

Becoming a Roman Catholic at the age of 59 was an overwhelming experience for me. "Cradle" Catholics advised me to slow down as being a Catholic is a lifetime of learning, which I've come to realize is true. "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Understanding Catholicism" assisted me in relaxing and enjoying the journey toward becoming a Catholic. Pork Chops and Applesauce: A Collection of Recipes and Reflections

Concise.Funny. Insightful. Irreverant. A good quick introduction. Buy it for everyone in your RCIA program.

"Blest are the Idiots . . . for they get the Best Information . . . & have more fun!" This book is SO MUCH MORE than I expected. I have bought several Idiot's Guides before (e.g., photography, organizing) and found them just as advertised -- a "down and dirty" intro. at a rather "lite" level. And I appreciate that. I get in, get just what I want and that's that.Important facts and information are quick and easy to find and all the "stuff" of Catholicism is here; but this book gets at the deep structure of just what a Catholic IS. I have never read such a lucid explanation of the experience of sacraments and of how Catholics relate to God! These authors seem to tap a deep comprehension of this religion along with a broad view of human culture. This ain't the Catholicism of the 40's and 50's that so many today are either bored by or angry at and yet which so many others seem to keep needing to defend.The four chapters on the history are worth the price of the whole book -- a balanced presentation of these 2000 years in such a concise, honest, inspiring and readable form! In my opinion the book only gets better as you read it. The last chapter is a magnificent statement of the future challenges the Church faces, expressing optimism that the Catholic Church has the resources to face them. I especially like the way the authors deal with the relationship of religion and spirituality. Indeed they "have saved the best till last."I have to admit that the name, that having the words "Idiot" and Catholic" so closely related, is a bit humbling. But then in the spirit of Jesus' beatitude -- the meek shall get the inheritance. My humility was rewarded.

WOW! I have been in therapy as an adult due to my religious background: Roman Catholic in the deep South! I ran from the church as quick as possible and while I have developed my own "brand," I really miss the fellowship and ritualism that the Church can offer. By reading this book, I have found a way to heal the wounds from the past by being able to forgive the Church--really the poor messengers it sent! This book is funny, informative, and timely. I am crazy for the way the authors explain years of theology in street terms. I found out alot more about being Catholic from this book than from all my years going to Catholic School and Church. Since I still cringe at the "male-ness" of religion, I found the presentation on Mary/Our Lady of Guadalupe soooo refreshing! I have a new perspective and respect for the institution of Catholicism. Thank you!