Catholic and Christian: An Explanation of Commonly Misunderstood Catholic Beliefs

Rating:
Summary: Clear, Concise explanations
Review: I'm planning on loaning this book out to some of my Protestant friends who have misconceptions about Catholicism. Mr. Schreck successfully refutes such notions as "the Catholic Church puts its own hierarchy above scripture," "the Catholic Church teaches works justification," and "Catholics deify Mary and the
Saints." Mr. Schreck has done an excellent job of stating what Catholics really believe, as well as presenting the Scriptural foundations of those beliefs.

Rating:
Summary: Clear, Concise explanations
Review: I'm planning on loaning this book out to some of my Protestant friends who have misconceptions about Catholicism. Mr. Schreck successfully refutes such notions as "the Catholic Church puts its own hierarchy above scripture," "the Catholic Church teaches works justification," and "Catholics deify Mary and the
Saints." Mr. Schreck has done an excellent job of stating what Catholics really believe, as well as presenting the Scriptural foundations of those beliefs.

Rating:
Summary: Readable, informative and non-judgemental
Review: In the preface to this new, revised 20th anniversary edition of Catholic and Christian, author Alan Schreck reflects upon the centrality of the Eucharist at the core of the Catholic tradition as John Paul II calls us to enter the "Year of the Eucharist". This book covers all of the topics we Catholics are frequently asked about in conversation by our non-Catholic friends: Mary, the Communion of Saints, the Pope and more. The book is not only of value for its apologetic purposes, but also for any Catholic (or for individuals wanting to inform themselves about the Faith) who wants to learn more about the traditions at the core of our Church. The topics covered remain timely in an era when many are striving to understand the true teachings of the Church.

Rating:
Summary: On the whole, Good job!
Review: Lacking the obvious strident cavalier attitude of some Catholic apologists, Alan Scheck sets forth a good case for his Catholic beliefs. While this Evangelical reviewer was not persuaded to convert as result of this book (indeed, it would appear that the work is meant more to explain Catholic dogma to Catholics than to underscore to "separated bretheren" the "error" of our ways), its explanations are well written, and the author has clearly done his homework. His treatment of both Protestants, and the beliefs of Protestants, is fair, Christ-like, and diplomatic- albeit not error free- although, the man clearly stands his ground. For any Evangelical Protestant who wants a fair, concise counterpoint to his own views in this area, I recommend this work. My only criticism of the work is that it omits a discussion of the issue of the inclusion of the deuterocanonical books of the Apocrypha by the Roman Catholic church. This is an important topic, and it would have been beneficial to see Schreck deal with it.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent "tool" for explaining the Catholic Faith!
Review: Like no other book, Dr. Schreck explains the truths of the Catholic Faith in a very readable fashion. Personally, I am a convert to the Catholic Church from Protestantism, and I cannot say enough on how this book helped me understand the so-called "deceptions and lies" of the Catholic Church. Dr. Schreck also uses copious amounts of Scripture, which ought to be a welcomed sight for those who thought the Catholic Church "ditched" Scripture. I have since used this book in an Adult Education setting in our parish, and it was well received! This book is a MUST for anyone who is grappling with the Catholic Faith!

Rating:
Summary: Catholicism from Scripture!
Review: On almost any catholic belief, this book takes you to the major scriptural references. This book will not offend the non-catholic like others may. Best overall explanation of misunderstood beliefs about the church I have read. Both Catholics and non-Catholics will benefit from this read. When I explain to my family and friends my reasons for converting, I usually refer to this book.

Rating:
Summary: Apostolic Succession, Relics, Purgatory, and More
Review: The 20th anniversary edition of this work comes at the opening of "the Year of the Eucharist," as proclaimed by Pope John Paul II. Schreck describes his work as an effort "to contribute to a better understanding of the teaching and tradition of the Catholic Church so that Catholics and other Christians may grow together in unity in our Christian life and in our common proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ." We must band together, he writes, to defend the faith against "the relativism and unbelief that are rampant in the post-Christian West. Thus begins a wonderful reference book for Catholics and others regarding Church teaching on salvation, the origin of Catholic beliefs, the Church and her authority, the work of the Holy Spirit, the sacraments, the Communion of Saints, Mary, and Man's Destiny in Christ. The work is well organized, with helpful sub heads, extensive footnotes, and a detailed index. This is an excellent resource for individuals, small church communities, catechists, and pastoral staff.

Rating:
Summary: Great for Catholic apologetics
Review: This book explains areas of apologetics I never gave much thought to. After reading the book, I understand some of the Church's teachings much better. The book turned on a light bulb of understanding in my head. This is the best book I have ever read. I am sending a copy to my sister who wants to know more about the Catholic faith. GREAT BOOK.

Rating:
Summary: Are you a Protestant married to a Catholic?
Review: This book helped me to understand and embrace my spouce's belief system. It helped me to understand that we have more incommon (ie the person of Jesus Christ) than I ever expected. It gave us great hope and strengthened both of our faiths. I have recommended this book to many contemplating marriage or who are frustrated and looking for answers in this area. It is clearly written in language that on catholics and catholics can both understand.

Rating:
Summary: Great Beginning. Great discussion of Justifcation.
Review: This book is worth it for the early discussion on the Catholic faith and then Dr. Schreck's discussion of Justification by faith and works. If you are like me, you might have a Protestant view of salvation. For me I could never quite reconcile this view with the book of James. If you are not quite sure of the Chhurch's position on faith, grace, works, salvation, etc., this book places it all in perspective and clearly explained. Th eother parts of the book were interesting, but not like the first third of the book.