A Superb Reference for Novice and Cradle-Catholic Alike

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	• Why Do Catholics Do That? Kevin Orlin Johnson Ballantine Books, 1995 - 304 pages average customer review:based on 76 reviews view larger image
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highly recommended

A Classic

I have purchased this book over and over because when someone expresses interest in Catholicism I usually give them my copy. It is beautifully written and although it is not a new book, the information is still correct. One reason for that is that the author explains how practices evolved and as it is history, it does not become outdated.

Easy pieces for understanding

This is a handy and easy read organized into brief chapters dedicated to a particular distinctive of the Catholic faith. The organization of material is perfect for ready reference to a specific interest or to be read through in any order. Dr. Johnson organized the material into 4 parts under the headings, faith, worship, culture, and customs.

Each part is organized into brief chapters on focused topics. Part one on faith covers such topics as the formation of the canon of scripture, how the church makes laws, and how the church views other documents of the early church not included in the canon. Part two on worship provides material on topics such as the meaning of common symbols and order of the mass as well as background on the stations of the cross and the rosary prayer. Part three concerning culture delves into the pope and vocations in the church and provides background on apparitions and signs (Fatima, weeping images, etc). Part four on customs provides a wealth of information on the meaning of materials and symbols in worship including music, medals, sacramentals, incense, water, and even numbers.

Whether you are a Catholic who has wondered the significance of a given practice or a non-Catholic seeking to understand, you will find a treasure of information here. It is a fantastic introduction to many of the practices that have been wrongfully dismissed as mere superstition. The history and culture of the Catholic faith is rich with meaning and significance. It is an heritage Catholics too often neglect. This is not just a how-to of these practices but a well developed study in why we do them. All within a text that is easy and enjoyable to read. A great resource and part of that Catholic heritage to be cherished.

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Great book

Really great information for Catholics and Non-Catholics alike. Rich in history and easy to read. Pick this one up!

A Superb Reference for Novice and Cradle-Catholic Alike

This is perhaps the single-best book I've read on the practices of the Catholic faith. It is rich in useful information and historic context for many of the main elements in the faith that Catholics see and use every day. From the origins of the rosary, to the colors of priestly vestments, to the history of the Bible, to the use of numbers as symbols in the Bible, to the cycle of redemption, its all here.

Written in a relaxed, easy-to-understand style, this book does a masterful job of instructing that is neither too erudite nor too simplistic. Much like the Faith itself, this is a book designed to reveal more and more to you each time you read it. Whether you are a cradle-Catholic, a convert, or simply someone who wants to understand, "Why do Catholics do that?" this book is for you.

If you were to only have three books in your Catholic library, I'd recommend the Bible, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and then this book. It truly is that good.

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reviews: page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

In Why Do Catholics Do That? renowned scholar and religion columnist Kevin Orlin Johnson answers the most frequently asked questions on Catholic faith, worship, culture, and customs, including:
* How the Church Makes Laws * The Hard-Fought Genesis of the New Testament * The Cycle of Redemption * A Short Guide to the Meaning and Structure of the Mass * Decoding Symbols of Scripture and the Sacraments * The Calendar as the Image of Christ's Life * The Rosary * The Stations of the Cross * Monks, Nuns, and the Rules That Guide Them * The Pope * The Laity in the Modern World * Saints * Fatima, Lourdes, and the Story of Apparitions * The Vatican: A Holy City * The Sign of the Cross, Christianity's Best-Known Symbol * Candles in Prayer and Liturgy * The Meaning of the Nativity Scene

Blending religious history, a deep appreciation for art and culture, and an enlightened reverence for the traditions of the Church, Why Do Catholics Do That? is the definitive resource for any one who wants to learn more about the rituals, symbols, and traditions that can strengthen our faith every day.

"Johnson offers lucid explanations of a dizzying array of customs and beliefs."
--Publishers Weekly

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