Catholicism for dummies - John Trigilio

What does it mean to be a Catholic? What are the fundamental beliefs and history behind this religion? Catholicism For Dummies, 2nd Edition is an intelligent and faithful look at Catholicism that will open your eyes to this religion and answer many of the questions you may have about it. Plus, in this new edition, youll find the updated text of the Mass according to the Roman Missal, Third Edition, as well as all-new chapters on creation, deepening your faith, and what joining the Church is all about.

• In the beginning
  find out what Catholics believe about creation, angels and devils, where sin came from, and what will happen at the end of the world




• Membership has its privileges
  discover how Catholics see the Church and how the act of fulfilling its missions makes membership a rewarding experience




• Whos who
  get to know the many players in the Catholic Church, from how the pope gets his job to what its like being a parish priest
  and all the important jobs in between




• Catholic symbolism
  understand the meaning behind the sign of the cross, the crucifix, Holy Water, incense, and more




• Follow the Mass
  appreciate the tradition of the Catholic Mass, from the opening prayer and the homily to going for Holy Communion

Open the book and find:

• What "the Church" really is




• How the Gospels came to be




• The Churchs stance on gay marriage, abortion, and war




• Catholic prayers and devotions




• What Catholics really think about Mary and the saints




• The virtues to strive for and the sins to avoid




• How Catholics can take their faith to the next level




• A guide to praying the Rosary

Learn to:

• Explore the foundations of the Catholic faith




• Make sense of the sacraments and symbols




• Understand issues modern Catholics face