September 30, 2008 3:43 PM
Finding out more about Catholicism
i know you are incredibly busy , but i am interested in learning more about the catholic church and was wondering if you can point me in the right direction? ive already found catholic.org, and its answered some, but am searching for more!S.
A great start is going to Mass. There are so many misconceptions about Catholics - that we don't read the Bible, for instance. Some of those questions will be answered directly when you hear how much Bible is part of each Mass.
Also your local parish has RCIA classes where you can ask all your questions. My husband Tripp really loved the classes he attended as he was able to discuss the things he was learning on his own. His approach was very academic and he was reading everything he could.
I got a book called The Complete Idiot's Guide to Catholicism - yes, I should be embarrassed, and I know it wasn't perfect, but I had some knowledge of Catholicism in my background because of going to Catholic high school (along with a heavy dose of Evangelical prejudice). This book gave me a quick overview, bringing things to my attention which were important.
Websites of interest:
My series Evangelical to Catholic (start at bottom) - which in addition to my posts, has a lot of great comments by more knowledgeable people than I.
I will also post your question so others can chime in.
Posted in Catholicism | Permalink
Comments
Barbara,
I also bought the Complete Idiots Guide to Catholicism and it really explains the faith very well. I bought the book after I converted from Southern Baptist to RC. RCIA is a good start for anyone interested in learning about the faith, even if they decide not to join the church. I originally went only to learn my about my husband's life long religion. After deciding to join, I had to go through the process of anulling my first marriage (I have a son from my first marriage and yes, the church still considers a child "legitimate" even after the annullment.) That was a concern for some of my family and my ex spouse. There is so much to learn about the Church and it welcomes everyone.
Posted by: Karen | September 30, 2008 4:25 PM
Is there a particular doctrine or practice you would like to know more about? I'd be happy to recommend some books and websites.
A few of my other fave sites:
www.scripturecatholic.com
www.newadvent.org (Catholic Encyclopedia, St. Thomas' Summa Theologica, and bible tools)
http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/ccc_toc.htm
Catechism of the Catholic Church, searchable by keyword.
You can also access texts of papal encyclicals (letters to the faithful) at the Vatican website.
Posted by: Milehimama | September 30, 2008 7:21 PM
There is soooo much good reading material out there. Another good, interactive website (a message board forum) is catholic-convert.com-go to the community area, and then to message boards. EXCELLENT group of folks there, and there are specific forum areas for asking questions, general chit-chat, even ones just for the ladies/gentlemen, etc. It is well administered and moderated, and while I *do* recommend posting an introduction in the Welcome forum, the folks there are very welcoming, once they know where you're coming from (and that you aren't a troll, lol)...
I converted from a non-denominational background to the Catholic Church in March of 2005. And its been a wonderful trip...
Posted by: Rachel | September 30, 2008 7:27 PM
My favorite website is www.catholic.com
They have great apologetic articles. Also be sure to check out the forums. I've learned so much history and faith from these people. You'll always get your question answered!
Aisha
Posted by: Aisha Hoffman | October 1, 2008 7:41 AM
Here is one of the best websites I have found:
http://www.catholiceducation.org/
They have very reliable answers to any and all questions Catholic.
God Bless You!!
Posted by: Jennifer | October 1, 2008 11:19 PM
