Catholic Customs: A Fresh Look at Traditional Practices

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Summary: Catholic Customs: A Fresh Look - by Regis Flaherty
Review: As a lifelong Catholic, there are many areas of our faith that I accepted without fully knowing how and why they came to be. Reading this book has given me a new insight into the richness of our traditions and their basis. I have a deeper appreciation of the sacraments, the seasons of the church and the practices that surround them. I especially liked the review of the liturgical year, and I can see myself using this book to follow the Church calendar as an aid in spiritual growth. In short, a great book for Catholics who want to know why we do what we do.

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Summary: Useful Source, Could Be More Readable
Review: As a reference source, Catholic Customs does an excellent job. I have a tendency to judge all works on devotions, customs, and practices by whether the full tenebrae is included and explained - and this book comes pretty darn close! There is an excellent breadth of information which is a fine supplement to the catechism, and other more targeted books such as Dubruiel's How-To Book of the Mass. When contrasted against Dues' Catholic Customs & Traditions, Flaherty's work is more down-to-earth, informative on present practice, and in-line with the magesterium (but not quite as developed compared to the excellent historical perspective that Dues provides).

That being said, the book lacks somewhat in readability. While the author does a nice job making individual sections entertaining with anecdotes & analogies, the structure of the book just doesn't lend itself to being a through-read. Frankly, this may be my fault for trying to devour it linearly.

Overall, a nice addition to any Catholic's library, and certain to pique some ideas and get people out of ingrained modes of worship to try some time-honored practices.

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Summary: Catholic Customs: A Fresh Look at Traditional Practices
Review: I thoroughly enjoyed Regis's book. I have both this book and his "How To" book on Catholic Devotions in my office. It is a life saver when co-workers ask me questions about my faith and I can provide a clear and accurate answer to thier questions. Also, my two daughters have found simple explanations to questions they have, especially with regard to the seasons of the liturgical year and the sacraments of our faith. God Bless you Regis, keep up the good work.