Recommended Reading on Roman Catholicism

Robert Barron, Catholicism: A Journey to the Heart of the Faith

Starting from the essential foundation of Jesus Christ's incarnation, life, and teaching, Father Barron moves through the defining elements of Catholicism—from sacraments, worship, and prayer, to Mary, the Apostles, and Saints, to grace, salvation, heaven, and hell to present the Church to the world.

Kevin Johnson, Why Do Catholics Do That?

Blending religious history, art, and culture, renowned scholar and religion columnist Kevin Orlin Johnson answers the most frequently asked questions on Catholic faith, worship, culture, and customs.

John Allen, The Catholic Church: What Everyone Needs to Know

John L. Allen, Jr., one of the world's leading authorities on the Vatican, offers an excellent handbook to the past, present, and future of the Church; for those who want (or need) to know more about the Catholic Church and for those who think they already know it all.

Christopher Kaczor, The Seven Big Myths about the Catholic Church

In an attempt to separate fact from fiction, Christopher Kaczor delves into the world of the Roman Catholic Church. Long has it been the target of suspicion and hostility. But how much of this is based on ignorance and prejudice, and how much is the fruit of thoughtful consideration of the facts?

Meredith Gould, The Catholic Home: Celebrations and Traditions 

For centuries, the Catholic Church has offered an abundance of splendid traditions that extend religious and spiritual practice into daily life. Now, Meredith Gould reintroduces these customs and rituals to modern Roman Catholics.

Matthew Kelly, Rediscover Catholicism

At a time when many Catholics are disillusioned, questioning their faith, and filled with doubts about the relevance of Catholicism in the modern world, author and consultant Kelly calls the reader to rediscover the Church's practices and teachings, with a focus on Confession, Daily Prayer, the Mass, the Bible, Fasting, Spiritual Reading, and the Rosary.

Bert Ghezzi, Voices of the Saints

Ghezzi provides readers with convenient ways to look up 365 Catholic saints: chronologically, alphabetically, by feast day, even by theme. The saint's patronage is also listed when available, as is the date of beatification or canonization. In lively profiles written for contemporary readers, Ghezzi chronicles their journeys of faith and their contributions to the vitality of the Church.