The Mystery of Faith: An Introduction to Catholicism

Michael Himes writes just as he speaks, that is to say, in a deeply theological yet easy to read and clear style, avoiding theological jargon. The book is based on his excellent video series of the same title. The ten chapters of 7-9 pages each cover the essential foundations of Catholicism, including concise presentations on Trinity, Grace, Incarnation, Church and the sacraments. The book also includes a topical and scriptural index.

Nothing I write will come close to the appropriate praise that this little book deserves. Michael Himes, a professor of theology at Boston College, known for his excellent video series from which this book was derived, does an amazing job at summarizing the essential elements of what it means to be part of the Catholic Christian community. This is as fun a book to read as it is informative. Having looked at many "Introductions to Catholicism" in order to better recommend particular books to inquirers, I would not hesitate to endorse this book.

I have found this small book to provide a wonderful introduction to Catholicism for my RCIA group here at Cornell University. It offers a broad and easily understandable look at Catholicism and leaves our students hungry for more. The questions at the end of each chapter are particularly helpful.

Michael Himes provides a very different approach to understanding the basics of Catholicism. A provocative and nontraditional approach yet faithful to the Tradition. The style is conversational which makes it easy to read. The author intertwines Scripture, classic literature and human experiences as he probes the mysteries of the Catholic faith. The reader is plunged into the meaning of the mystery of God, the Incarnation and Salvation,the Church,the Sacraments and Tradition. A stimulating resource for readers who would like to revisit these fundamental topics. And an interesting first look to introduce a reader to the basics of Catholicism.