Rachel Evans
In an article titled How I came to speak Catholic, the author writes about their personal journey to Catholicism. They were born into a Catholic family and were surrounded by Catholic friends, but their belief in Christ is for muddier reasons. They speak about the power of ritual and the comfort of believing in a God who is wiser and gentler than themselves. The author also mentions that they might identify with other faiths, but Catholicism is their language and their home. The article also briefly mentions the author's grandmother, who was also Catholic, and whose funeral Mass taught them about the power of ritual.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Family | The faith of the author's grandmother, Gaelic forebears, alma mater, and friends |
| Ritual | The power of the funeral Mass |
| Belief in Christ | Muddier reasons, such as needing to believe in a God wiser and gentler than oneself and the persistence and genius of the tale |
| Enticing power of the story | Divinity infuses all things, and Christ, dead at 33, was distilled divinity |
| Personal experience | The author's experience of being with Pope Benedict XVI in Washington |
| Community | The sense of joy and receptivity at Mass, the power of the Eucharist, and the choir at the Basilica |
| Personal reflection | The author's contemplation and reading of a variety of things |
| Structure | The Church provides a structured way of thinking about God that has developed over 2,000 years |
| God's voice | God speaks to us through Scripture, other people, and directly at times |
| Prayer | Praying to Jesus and expecting answers |
| Authority | Understanding the question of authority and the touchability, visibility, and palpability of "the Christian thing" |
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What You'll Learn
Family and ancestry
I was born into a Catholic family, with my parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents all practising the Catholic faith. My mother's side of the family has a particularly strong connection to the Church, with several members having dedicated their lives to serving the Church and its community. My great-aunt was a nun, and my mother's cousin is a priest. Growing up, I was always surrounded by my family's Catholic traditions and rituals. Every Sunday, we attended mass as a family, and religious holidays were celebrated with special significance.
My parents ensured that my siblings and I were immersed in Catholic teachings from a young age. We attended Catholic schools, participated in youth groups, and were actively involved in our parish community. Our home was filled with religious artwork, statues, and symbols that reflected our faith. My parents encouraged us to ask questions and engage in open discussions about our beliefs, fostering a deep understanding of Catholic doctrine and values.
As I grew older, I began to explore my faith more independently. I joined a Catholic youth ministry, where I found a sense of belonging and camaraderie with like-minded peers. We engaged in thoughtful discussions about our beliefs, organised community service projects, and participated in spiritual retreats. Through these experiences, I developed a stronger personal connection to my faith and a deeper understanding of its teachings.
My family's Catholic heritage also played a significant role in shaping my identity. Our ancestral roots trace back to a small town in Ireland, where our family name is intertwined with the local Catholic church and its history. Stories of my great-grandparents' devotion to the Church and their involvement in the community have been passed down through generations, connecting me to a rich cultural and spiritual legacy.
While I have encountered individuals with differing religious views, my family has always been a source of support and encouragement in my faith journey. We may not always agree on every aspect of Catholic doctrine, but we respect each other's perspectives and engage in thoughtful dialogue. Our shared faith has provided a strong foundation for our relationships, and our family gatherings are often filled with meaningful conversations about our beliefs and experiences.
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Divinity and belief in Christ
The foundation of the Catholic faith is built upon a belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the Saviour of the world. This core tenet of Christianity is central to Catholic doctrine and shapes the very essence of what it means to be a Catholic. Recognizing the divinity of Christ is essential, as Catholics view Him not merely as a historical figure or a prophet, but as the incarnate God, sent to redeem humanity. This belief in Christ's divinity is rooted in Scripture, where we find accounts of His miracles, His teachings, and most importantly, His resurrection. Through faith in Christ's divinity, Catholics find meaning, purpose, and a framework for moral living.
The Catholic understanding of Christ's divinity is intricately linked to the concept of the Trinity. Catholics believe in one God who exists as three distinct persons: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. This doctrine, established in the early Church, emphasizes the unity and equality of the three persons, each possessing the one divine substance or essence. While it may be challenging to fully comprehend, this mystery lies at the heart of Catholic faith, and its acceptance is fundamental to a Catholic worldview.
Belief in Christ's divinity leads to a recognition of His role as the Messiah, the one sent by God to fulfill the prophecies of the Old Testament. Catholics find validation in Christ's fulfillment of these prophecies, such as those concerning His birth in Bethlehem, His miracles, and His crucifixion, which were foretold by the prophets. This fulfillment reinforces the belief that Christ is the long-awaited Messiah, sent to offer salvation and establish a new covenant with humanity. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Catholics find hope and the promise of eternal life.
A key aspect of Catholic belief is the understanding that Christ's sacrifice on the cross was an act of atonement for the sins of humanity. By dying on the cross and rising again, Christ conquered sin and death, offering the possibility of redemption and eternal life to all who believe in Him. This belief in Christ's sacrificial love is a cornerstone of the Catholic faith, and it inspires Catholics to strive for holiness and to follow Christ's example of self-sacrificial love. The sacrifice of the Mass, or the Eucharist, is a central ritual in Catholic worship, where believers commemorate Christ's sacrifice and find spiritual nourishment through the bread and wine that, through transubstantiation, become the body and blood of Christ.
Through faith in Christ's divinity, Catholics also find a moral compass and a set of values by which to live their lives. The teachings of Christ, as recorded in the Gospels, provide guidance on how to lead a virtuous and ethical life. Catholics strive to emulate Christ's example of compassion, forgiveness, and love for all, especially the marginalized and the needy. This belief in Christ's divinity, therefore, has a profound impact on the daily lives of Catholics, shaping their interactions with others and their understanding of what it means to live a life pleasing to God.
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The power of ritual
Rituals are a key part of the Catholic faith, and their importance is deeply felt by many of its followers. Rituals can provide a sense of structure and meaning, and for some, they are a source of comfort and strength during difficult times.
The rituals of the Catholic Church are often steeped in tradition and symbolism, and they can evoke powerful emotions and a sense of connection to something greater than oneself. For example, the funeral Mass of the author's grandmother, who died when the author was 12, served as a powerful illustration of the sustaining nature of ritual during times of weakness and grief.
The rituals of the Catholic faith can also provide a sense of community and belonging. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., for example, is described as a place where thousands of people come together to join the Church, creating a powerful, integrating moment and a sense of joy and receptivity. The rituals of the Mass, such as the Eucharist, can be deeply meaningful to individuals and create a sense of unity with others who share the same faith.
For some, the rituals of the Catholic Church can also be a source of personal growth and contemplation. The Church offers a structured way of thinking about God and spirituality that has been developed over centuries. This structure can provide a sense of stability and guidance, and it can lead individuals to explore their faith and spirituality in deeper and more meaningful ways.
Additionally, rituals can be a way to connect with one's cultural heritage and history. For the author, Catholicism was the faith of their Gaelic forebears, and it was also the faith of their alma mater and professional employers. It is a language and a coat that one wears, a house in which one lives.
In conclusion, the power of ritual in the Catholic faith is undeniable. Rituals provide structure, meaning, and comfort, connect individuals to a community and their heritage, and offer a way to explore one's spirituality and relationship with God. They are a fundamental part of the Catholic experience and can be a source of strength, guidance, and inspiration for its followers.
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The Holy Spirit
My understanding and relationship with the Holy Spirit began to take shape as I delved deeper into my newfound faith. I learned that the Holy Spirit is the invisible force that brings about incredible transformation and empowers believers to live according to the teachings of Christ. He is the source of divine inspiration, the one who guides us toward all truth, and the advocate who intercedes for us.
One of the key roles of the Holy Spirit is to sanctify. This means that He makes us holy and helps us grow in virtue. The Holy Spirit works within us to transform our hearts, minds, and actions, enabling us to lead lives that are pleasing to God. This process of sanctification is a lifelong journey, and the Holy Spirit is our constant companion, providing strength and guidance along the way.
Additionally, the Holy Spirit is the source of the rich variety of spiritual gifts that exist within the Church. These gifts, often referred to as charisms, are special abilities given by the Holy Spirit to benefit the common good and build up the community of believers. They include wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, and discernment, among others.
Lastly, as I continued to pray and meditate, I became more aware of the presence of the Holy Spirit in my daily life. I experienced a profound sense of peace and joy, and I felt empowered to face the challenges of my new faith journey. The Holy Spirit guided me toward a deeper understanding of God's love and mercy, and I found myself increasingly able to discern His gentle promptings in my heart.
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Catholic podcasts and YouTube channels
Podcasts and YouTube channels are a great way to learn about Catholicism, whether you are a longtime Catholic or simply curious about the faith. There are a variety of Catholic podcasts and YouTube channels that cover a range of topics, from theology and Scripture to humour and personal growth.
One popular Catholic podcast is "Bible in a Year", which is hosted by Fr. Mike Schmitz and provides listeners with the opportunity to go through the Bible in a year. Fr. Mike Schmitz also hosts other podcasts, including "The Catechism in a Year", "Sunday Homilies", and "The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast". Another well-known podcast is "Pints with Aquinas", which discusses reason, theology, and the Counsel of Trent. "Every Knee Shall Bow" is also recommended by listeners, offering meaty but insightful content over the years. "What God is Not", hosted by Father Michael O’Laughlin and Mother Natalia, provides Eastern Catholic perspectives on various dilemmas with infectious banter and great advice.
For those seeking thoughtful reflections and profound teachings, "Catholic Stuff You Should Know" is a great choice. Hosted by the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, this podcast offers heartfelt insights into spiritual growth and walking with Christ. "The Catholic Talk Show" is another option, blending priestly banter with theological depth and featuring hosts Fr. Harrison Ayre and Fr. Anthony Sciarappa. "Catholic Answers Live" is a podcast where Tim Staples answers questions about Catholic teaching and practice, covering a range of topics such as the Church's position on dividing ashes, relics, and organ donation.
In addition to podcasts, there are also Catholic YouTube channels that provide valuable content. One example is Bishop Fulton Sheen's sermons, which are said to be charismatic and engaging, often starting with jokes.
Whether it's through podcasts or YouTube channels, Catholics can find a wealth of resources to deepen their faith and gain new perspectives on their spiritual journey.
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Frequently asked questions
The book traces the author's spiritual journey, making a case for the faith and answering questions asked by agnostics, atheists, and the non-religious.
The author of the book "Why I Am Catholic (and You Should Be Too)" is Brandon Vogt, a bestselling and award-winning author, blogger, and speaker.
The book is targeted towards non-Catholics, former Catholics, and practicing Catholics. It aims to provide a compelling case for Catholicism and address common questions and doubts about the faith.
Brandon Vogt's book offers a modern defence of Catholicism, addressing common objections and misconceptions. It also serves as a source of confidence and clarity for practicing Catholics, helping them affirm their faith in a sceptical culture.
Yes, the book has received positive endorsements from several notable figures in Catholic media and apologetics. Jennifer Fulwiler, a Catholic radio host, said that she "wished she had read the book when she was an atheist" as it would have led her to Catholicism sooner.
