Catholicism for Dummies

Wily Press, 2003


Reviewed by Lisa Hendey

I am always on the lookout for resources that will assist me in learning about my own Catholic faith and in sharing that faith with my children, family and friends. I find Catholicism for Dummies (Wiley, June 2003, paperback, 384 pages) an excellent resource for both my own research and for teaching the faith in a straightforward yet comprehensive manner. Authors Rev. John Trigilio Jr. and Rev. Kenneth Brighenti have compiled a wide-ranging resource which will be of help for anyone looking to increase their knowledge of and devotion to their own practice of Catholicism.

Written in a concise, organized fashion, the Catholicism for Dummies offers practical information on all of the most basic elements of Catholicism, including - but not limited to - the Four Marks of the Church (One, Holy, Catholic, Apostolic), the structure of the Church, basic beliefs, worship types, the Sacraments, the Mass, and much more. Timely (and at times controversial) issues of concern to most Catholics are discussed.

I found especially enjoyable the "Part of Tens" which relates the stories of remarkable Catholic role models and landmarks. The two appendices, one detailing the popes and a second outlining a brief history of the Church, are helpful additions.

Buy this book for your own Catholic library or as a gift for a friend interested in exploring the treasures of our Catholic faith.

For additional information on Catholicism for Dummies visit http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764553917/digitalcropper-20

Lisa M. Hendey is a mother of two sons, webmaster of numerous web sites, including http://www.catholicmom.com and http://www.christiancoloring.com, and an avid reader of Catholic fiction and non-fiction.
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