What’s the world’s best-selling Catholic book?

You might be surprised.  Check out this release:

In his foreword to YOUCAT — the Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church — Pope Benedict XVI urges readers to “study this Catechism with passion and perseverance.” The book’s amazing, global popularity suggests that millions of Catholics have embraced the Holy Father’s call.

YOUCAT now ranks as the best-selling Catholic book in the world, with more than 1.7 million copies already sold around the globe. Not surprisingly, the Youth Catechism is at the top of Catholic-book sales rankings in America, Germany and Spain. Ignatius Press published the English-language edition of YOUCAT for the U.S.

“1.7 million copies sold worldwide — but that’s just the beginning,” said Fr. Joseph Fessio, S.J., founder and editor of Ignatius Press. “Young people are evangelizing their peers as well as deepening their own faith.”

“It’s been challenging at times to keep YOUCAT in stock,” said Ignatius President Mark Brumley. “YOUCAT is quickly becoming the go-to book for young people to deepen their faith. Pastors, school teachers, and catechists are using it in their religious education classes and Confirmation programs. Parents, grandparents, and godparents are buying it as a gift for young people. YOUCAT is an outstanding gift to the Church.”

And work is continuing to expand the reach and impact of this landmark book. “A special institute in Germany, staffed by young Catholics, is organizing international study groups and preparing new YOUCAT-centered activities and publications,” Fr. Fessio said. “Like its big brother, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, YOUCAT isn’t a one-time publication. It’s a point of reference for young people around the world and a cornerstone of the New Evangelization.”

YOUCAT adapts the content of the Catechism of the Catholic Church to a format intended to engage young people and young adults. It is an accessible and contemporary expression of the Catholic Faith, and served as the official Youth Catechism of 2011 World Youth Day in Madrid.