Understand Catholic origins, traditions, and teachings

Ever wonder what Catholics believe, what they do, and why? This book explains the origins and the practices of Catholic Christians that have lasted for nearly two thousand years. Learn about their doctrine, discipline, liturgy, and morality as well as the foundation of the Church, from St. Peter to Pope Francis, and from the Vatican to the typical parishioner in the pew. Sacraments, commandments, precepts, and more are all explained here. Want to know what goes on at a Catholic Mass? What is Marian devotion all about? Whether you’re a cradle Catholic, a lapsed Catholic, considering becoming Catholic, or just curious about Catholicism, find answers to many of your questions in this book. If nothing else, you’ll discover some fascinating facts that over one billion believers embrace around the world.

Inside…

• Discover a brief history of Catholicism
• Find out what Catholics believe
• Learn about the sacraments
• Live like a good Catholic
• Honor the Virgin Mary
• Recognize the Catholic saints
• Memorize Catholic prayers
• Grow in the Catholic faith

Peer through the stained glass and get an inside look at Christianity's most popular religion

Catholicism can seem a bit mysterious to non-Catholics—and even Catholics. Embrace your curiosity and turn to Dummies for answers! Full of fascinating facts and written in a friendly style, Catholicism For Dummies explains the basics of Catholic beliefs like the importance of Sunday Mass; the seven sacraments; the purity of the Blessed Virgin Mary; heaven, hell, and purgatory; the Trinity; and so much more. You'll learn about the Catholic perspective on women as priests, saints as examples of how to live, and prayer as the basis of a relationship with God.

This easy-to-read resource offers an overview of a rich and diverse faith. You'll also discover:

• The ins and outs of living as a Catholic and why followers of the faith observe traditions like attending Mass on certain days of the year, praying the rosary, and not eating meat on Fridays
• Information on what the pope does, how he is selected, the history of the Vatican, and what it's like to be a priest in today's society
• Details about the church's position on modern social issues, like poverty, abortion and the death penalty, same-sex marriage, and contraception

Whether you're a cradle Catholic or just curious about the world's second largest religion, Catholicism For Dummies has the answers you're seeking to a faith that's been around for thousands of years. Order your copy today.