Joshua Bennett
There are many books that can help you learn about Catholic theology, and the Bible is considered the most important one for every Catholic to read. Other books that can help you reflect on your faith journey include Confessions, The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis, and The Spirit of Catholicism by Karl Adam. If you're looking for a concise introduction to Catholic theology, Francis J. Sheed's A Map Of Life, Theology For Beginners, and Theology And Sanity are recommended. For a philosophical and theological overview, Society and Sanity by Frank Sheed is a good choice. To learn about the saints, Fr. John Burns' book based on his retreat journals offers an opportunity to learn from St. Francis de Sales. Theology of the Body in One Hour by Jason Evert is another recommended read.
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What You'll Learn
The Bible
The term "Catholic Bible" can be understood in two ways. Firstly, it can refer to the entire 73-book canon recognised by the Catholic Church, including some of the deuterocanonical books (and parts of books) of the Old Testament found in the Greek Septuagint collection but absent from the Hebrew Masoretic Text collection. Secondly, it can refer to a version or translation of the Bible published with the Catholic Church's approval and in accordance with Catholic canon law. The current official version is the Nova Vulgata, a revision of the Vulgate, which was declared the official translation for the Latin Church by the Council of Trent. The Council did not, however, forbid translations made directly from the original languages.
When selecting a Bible, it is recommended to choose a Catholic edition, which will include the Church's complete list of sacred books, along with introductions and notes for understanding the text. A Catholic edition will also bear an imprimatur notice, indicating that it is free of errors in Catholic doctrine. A recommended version is the Ignatius Press New Testament Study Bible, which includes footnotes by renowned theologians Dr Scott Hahn and Curtis Mitch. Another suggestion is the Revised Standard Version (RSV) from Ignatius Press.
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Summa Theologica
Part II of Summa Theologica is divided into two parts, known as Prima Secundae and Secunda Secundae, comprising 114 and 189 questions, respectively. The contents of these parts include treatises on the last end, human acts, the will, good and evil, passions, habits, virtues, and more.
The work references several respected thinkers of Aquinas's time, including Paul the Apostle, Aristotle, Peter Lombard, Ulpian, Marcus Tullius Cicero, and Pseudo-Dionysius. These authors are cited in the arguments from authority, or sed contra arguments, found in Summa Theologica.
St. Thomas Aquinas, the author of Summa Theologica, was a Catholic priest in the Dominican order and one of the most important medieval philosophers and theologians. Born in 1225 to a noble family, Aquinas joined the Dominicans of Naples in 1243 and later studied at the University of Cologne under St. Albert the Great. He received his doctoral degree from the University of Paris and was canonized in 1323. Aquinas is the patron saint of universities and students, and his feast day is celebrated on January 28.
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Saints' works
Saints have played a pivotal role in the development and spread of Catholic theology. Many saints were prolific writers, leaving behind autobiographies, diaries, and collections of memories. These works offer valuable insights into the lives and thoughts of these revered figures, providing a window into their devotion to God and the Catholic faith.
One of the most well-known saints in Catholic theology is St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622). His book, "Introduction to the Devout Life," is a classic devotional work that guides believers on their spiritual journey towards God. St. Francis offers practical advice on a range of spiritual subjects, making this text a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their connection with the divine.
Another influential saint, St. Louis de Montfort (1673-1716), made significant contributions to Mariology, the study of the Virgin Mary. His book, "True Devotion to Mary," reflects his singular devotion to Mary, and he is also known for his practice of praying the Rosary. St. Louis de Montfort's writings have inspired many, including Fr. Michael Gaitley, MIC, who draws from his work in "Theology of the Body in One Hour."
St. Teresa of Avila, also known as St. Teresa of Jesus, is another important figure in Catholic theology. Her work, "The Interior Castle," is a classic text of Christian mysticism. St. Teresa viewed the soul as a "castle made of a single diamond" with seven mansions or dwelling places, leading to the concept of the immanence of God in the seventh mansion. "The Interior Castle" serves as a practical guide for those seeking to achieve mystical union with the divine.
Additionally, St. Augustine, also known as St. Austin, is renowned for his work, "The Confessions of Saint Augustine." This autobiographical work offers a deep insight into the life and thoughts of this influential saint.
Lastly, Alban Butler, an English Roman Catholic priest and hagiographer, compiled the "Lives of the Saints," a comprehensive work documenting the lives of various saints. This collection includes the lives of fathers, martyrs, and other principal saints, providing valuable information about their contributions to Catholic theology.
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Catholic theology classics
The Catholic Church has a long and rich intellectual tradition, with a vast array of texts spanning two millennia. From medieval theologians to modern apologists, there is a wealth of Catholic theology classics to explore.
One of the most influential figures in Catholic theology is St. Thomas Aquinas, whose ""Summa Theologiae" is considered a masterpiece of medieval philosophy and theology. Aquinas' work provides a comprehensive synthesis of Christian thought and philosophy, and his ""Summa Contra Gentiles" and "Questiones de Veritate" are also essential readings. Another classic text is "Theology for Beginners" by Frank Sheed, which offers a popular and accessible introduction to Catholic theology.
The Church Fathers, or Patristic writers, form a key part of the Catholic intellectual tradition. Works such as Augustine of Hippo's "Confessions", "City of God", "On Christian Doctrine", and "On the Free Choice of the Will" are considered classics. Similarly, "The Rule of St. Benedict" by Benedict of Nursia, "The Life of Antony" and "On the Incarnation" by Athanasius, and "Protrepticus, Paedagogus, Stromata" by Clement of Alexandria are foundational texts for Catholic theology.
Other classic works include "The Imitation of Christ" by Thomas à Kempis, a guide to the spiritual life; "Abandonment to Divine Providence" by Jean-Pierre de Caussade; and "Transformation in Christ" by Dietrich von Hildebrand, which offer profound insights into the Christian life. "Theology of the Body" by St. John Paul II is also a significant modern contribution to Catholic theology.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the Bible, the "Ignatius Press New Testament Study Bible" with footnotes by theologians Scott Hahn and Curtis Mitch is highly recommended. The "Revised Standard Version" (RSV) of the Bible from Ignatius Press is also a valuable resource.
Finally, some modern classics include "The Spirit of Catholicism" by Karl Adams, "The End of the Modern World" and "The Lord" by Romano Guardini, and "Rome Sweet Home" by Scott Hahn. These works offer contemporary insights and reflections on the Catholic faith.
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Catholic apologetics
Some of the classic works include the "Summa Theologica" by St. Thomas Aquinas, "The Imitation of Christ" by Thomas à Kempis, and "Abandonment to Divine Providence" by Jean-Pierre de Caussade. These are considered indispensable for any Catholic reader.
For those seeking an introduction to Catholic theology, Francis J. Sheed is recommended as a great Catholic teacher. His works include "A Map of Life", "Theology for Beginners", and "Theology and Sanity". Another recommended introductory text is "Faith of Our Fathers" by Joseph Cardinal Gibbons. This book covers a range of topics, including purgatory, Mary, and praying to saints, and is recommended by many prominent Catholic apologists.
More recent works in Catholic apologetics include "The Case for Catholicism" by Trent Horn, which tackles Protestant objections and responds to both historical and contemporary Protestant arguments. "God's Battalions" by Rodney Stark is another contemporary defence of the Crusades, written from a sociological perspective.
Other notable mentions include "Bearing False Witness: Debunking Centuries of Anti-Catholic History", "Theology of the Body in One Hour" by Jason Evert, and "Answering Atheism: How to Make the Case for God with Logic and Charity", co-authored by Trent Horn.
Finally, for a philosophical and theological overview, "Society and Sanity" by Frank Sheed is recommended, along with "A Refutation of Moral Relativism" by Peter Kreeft.
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Frequently asked questions
Here are some books that can help you learn about Catholic theology:
- *The Bible* (especially the Catholic edition)
- *The Imitation of Christ* by Thomas à Kempis
- *Theology of the Body in One Hour* by Jason Evert
- *The Confessions of St. Augustine*
- *The Spirit of Catholicism* by Karl Adam
- *Theology For Beginners* by Francis J. Sheed
Some books that can help you learn about Catholic saints include:
- *The Life of St. Joseph* by Maria Cecilia Baij
- *The Mystery of Suffering* by Hubert van Zeller
- *Interior Castle* by Teresa of Avila
- *St. Thomas Aquinas: The Dumb Ox* by G.K. Chesterton
To learn about Catholic history and its relationship with other religions, you can read:
- *The Seven Big Myths about the Catholic Church: Distinguishing Fact from Fiction about Catholicism* by Chris Kaczor
- *Answering Atheism: How to Make the Case for God with Logic and Charity* by Trent Horn
- *The Case for Jesus: The Biblical and Historical Case for Christ* by Brant Pitre
- *Catholicism: A Journey to the Heart of the Faith* by Bishop Robert Baron
These books can help you reflect on your Catholic faith journey:
- *Confessions* by St. Augustine
- *Theology of the Body in One Hour* by Jason Evert
- *The Imitation of Christ* by Thomas à Kempis
- *The Spirit of Catholicism* by Karl Adam
