I was not brought up in a Catholic church and do not know much about any
religion. I am on a journey to learn about God and to find my faith. I
have been trying to find out about the Catholic church, but I am having
problems finding a place to begin. I am a beginner and was wondering if you
know any books or articles that start at the beginning and explain the
Catholic church and its beliefs. Thank you for your time.
J
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Dear J,
Thank you for the question - and prayers for your journey. Not knowing you personally, I am somewhat reluctant to make a recommendation. There are so many excellent books, not to mention websites, which address different aspects of Catholic teaching. Still, here are a few suggestions to start:
The best short book is Pillar of Fire, Pillar of Truth. You can find it online: It is put out by Catholic Answers which has a series of tracts explaining Catholic beliefs.
A bit more indepth: Catholic for a Reason, edited by Scott Hahn and Leon J. Suprenant. The Truth of Catholicism by George Weigel (which explores the faith in light of ten modern controversies). And by Peter Kreeft: Catholic Christianity: A Complete Catechism of Catholic Beliefs Based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Dr. Kreeft has many excellent books and articles.
Also I recommend blocking out time to read the Catechism of the Catholic Church (it can be obtained at almost any major bookstore). It presents the teachings, without elaborate explanations, but I think you will find it an exhilarating experience. If you devote fifteen minutes or a half hour each day to meditative reading of the Catechism, you will finish it sooner than you imagine and will be richly rewarded.
Prayers!
Fr. Phil Bloom
P.S. There are also some great Home Study Resources
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