The Catechism Explained

What need do we have for another catechism when we already have so many? We have an abundance of catechisms and religious manuals that only appeal to the intellect; books that do not aim for the warmth of expression and the fervent, persuasive eloquence that appeal to the heart, the force and vitality that affect the will under the influence of the Holy Spirit.

The purpose of this version of the Catechism is to cultivate all three spiritual powers: intellect, emotions, and will. Therefore, it does not limit itself to mere definitions. Its purpose is not to instruct men in religious philosophy, but to make them devout Christians who take joy in their faith. Therefore, questions of scholastic theology, including doctrines debated by theologians, are either omitted entirely or mentioned only briefly.

In this catechism, Father Spirago has endeavoured to strip religious instruction of its scholarly appearance and present it in an accessible and straightforward manner. Technical terms, which are prevalent in almost all religious manuals, even those intended for children, are eradicated from his pages because, while beneficial and necessary for seminarians and theologians, they have no place in a book written for the general public. Popular religious texts should be written in clear, simple language, similar to that used by Jesus and the apostles, so that they are simple to comprehend. We need something that touches the heart and influences the will, rather than something that simply imparts information.

Attention may also be drawn to the fact that Church doctrine is not presented in a dull, abstract manner, but rather is made attractive and fascinating through the use of examples, comparisons, and quotations from well-known authors. It also contains numerous excerpts from the writings of Father Spirago, which are cited primarily to clarify and illustrate rather than to establish the elucidated principles.

872 pages.