Catholicism

August 8, 2011
The Catholic Church has certainly faced some difficult challenges in recent years. Sex scandals, bishops who looked the other way, and a shortage of priests are seared into the consciousness of many within and outside this faith tradition. Barron, a Catholic priest and professor of theology at Mundelein Seminary near Chicago, draws attention back to the beautiful and rich tradition of this two-millennia-old religion. The author is able to set politics aside and examine the true heart of the Catholic faith—God, Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and the numerous devotional practices and dogmas that have developed over the centuries. He casts a spotlight on some of the holy people who have helped build up the church, such as Dorothy Day, Thomas Merton, Katharine Drexel, and Mother Teresa. Barron’s engaging stories help to dissect and explain complex theological tenets. One comes to understand that Catholicism transcends religious practice; it is a lifestyle. Those who would like a concise but substantive introduction to the Catholic faith need look no further.

September 1, 2011

An accessible introduction to traditional Catholic teachings.

Best known for his evangelical ministry, Word On Fire, Father Barron's (Eucharist (Catholic Spirituality for Adults), 2008, etc.) latest book opens with a description of what he calls the distinctive "Catholic thing," the incarnation of the Word, Jesus, as human flesh. Catholics experience this continued enfleshment, Barron writes, through sacraments and songs, theology, the teachings of the Church, and Catholic art and poetry. So begins this simple, engaging guide to the Church that encompasses everything from theological tracts to popular tales of Mary apparitions. The author shies away from hot topics such as abortion and sexuality, focusing on philosophical principals such as the mystery of God, the problem of evil, the beatitudes, the unified Catholic church, Mary's role as the Mother of God and the Eucharist. Highlights include inspirational stories about notable Catholics, including Mother Teresa and her struggle with faith, the conversion story of playboy-turned-monk Thomas Merton, Dorothy Day's activism and the teachings of Pope Benedict XVI. Barron surveys different aspects of Catholicism rather than presenting a comprehensive guidebook: "I want to function as a mystagogue, conducting you ever deeper into the mystery of the Incarnation in the hopes that you might be transformed by its power." Interspersed within the text are numerous images of Catholic paintings, sculptures and cathedrals, serving as a quiet reminder of the religion's rich artistic history.

Not in-depth enough for seasoned Catholics, but provides a pleasant primer for cafeteria Catholics and newcomers to the faith.

(COPYRIGHT (2011) KIRKUS REVIEWS/NIELSEN BUSINESS MEDIA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.)

October 1, 2011

Barron (Francis Cardinal George Chair of Faith & Culture, Mundelein Seminary) has written a companion book to his ten-part documentary, Catholicism. As such, his book is not a systematic catechism or an official statement of doctrine but a more organically organized tour by a man of great personal faith. Addressing such topics as Jesus's teachings, the Virgin Mary, the sacraments, the communion of saints, and prayer, Barron's book is richly and aptly illustrated and learned without being oppressive. VERDICT Integrating personal story and insight with a lifetime's experience and knowledge, this is an excellent and personal introduction to Catholicism for readers new to the faith as well as lifetime Catholics.

Copyright 2011 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.