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Rediscovering Catholicism: Journeying Toward Our Spiritual North Star
Over the past ten years, Matthew Kelly has seen more of the world than most presidents and more of the Church than most bishops. Now, in this unique and timely book, he proposes that Catholicism is not a lifeless set of rules and regulations, but a way of life designed by God to help each person reach his or her full potential. With remarkable insight, Kelly dispels dozens of the myths that surround the practice and rejection of Catholicism today, and provides a profound and practical vision of what will lead the Catholic Church to thrive again in the future. "Holiness is to become the-best-version-of-yourself. Francis of Assisi spent his whole life trying to become the best-version-of-himself. Mother Teresa spent her whole life trying to become the-best-version-of-herself. God calls us all to holiness, because God wants each of us to be all we can be." "The goal of the Christian life is holiness," Kelly explains, "but somewhere along the way this term disappeared from most Catholic's vocabulary. Either because we thought it was an unattainable ideal or because we felt it lacked relevance in the modern context. Maybe we thought the idea of holiness made people feel guilty. Perhaps we just wanted to make it easier for people. Whatever the reason, the disappearance of this goal hasn't made it easier for modern Catholics; it's made it harder for them."
"Have you ever tried to find your way to a place you have never been before with no directions, no map, and no clear description of the destination?" "The great confusion that is torturing the Church and weakening our faith surrounds one question. What is holiness? The falling attendance at church, the marginalization of the Church by our secular culture, and our failure to reach the youth are all caused by our inability to communicate clearly the answer to this question. What is holiness?" "Modern men and women have simply become disoriented. We have lost our way. By putting aside the goal of the Christian life -- this call to holiness -- we have lost sight of the great Spiritual North Star. The North Star is the only star in the sky that never moves; it remains constant, unwavering, and therefore is truly a guide. If we are to find our way, we must rediscover the great Spiritual North Star."
313 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2002
799 people are currently reading
3790 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Kelly
193 books1,418 followersMatthew Kelly is a best-selling author, speaker, thought leader, entrepreneur, consultant, spiritual leader, and innovator.
He has dedicated his life to helping people and organizations become the-best-version-of-themselves. Born in Sydney, Australia, he began speaking and writing in his late teens while he was attending business school. Since that time, 5 million people have attended his seminars and presentations in more than 50 countries.
Today, Kelly is an internationally acclaimed speaker, author, and business consultant. His books have been published in more than 30 languages, have appeared on The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestseller lists, and have sold more than 50 million copies.
In his early-twenties he developed "the-best-version-of-yourself" concept and has been sharing it in every arena of life for more than twenty-five years. It is quoted by presidents and celebrities, athletes and their coaches, business leaders and innovators, though perhaps it is never more powerfully quoted than when a mother or father asks a child, "Will that help you become the-best-version-of-yourself?"
Kelly's personal interests include golf, music, art, literature, investing, spirituality, and spending time with his wife, Meggie, and their children Walter, Isabel, Harry, Ralph, and Simon.
He has dedicated his life to helping people and organizations become the-best-version-of-themselves. Born in Sydney, Australia, he began speaking and writing in his late teens while he was attending business school. Since that time, 5 million people have attended his seminars and presentations in more than 50 countries.
Today, Kelly is an internationally acclaimed speaker, author, and business consultant. His books have been published in more than 30 languages, have appeared on The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestseller lists, and have sold more than 50 million copies.
In his early-twenties he developed "the-best-version-of-yourself" concept and has been sharing it in every arena of life for more than twenty-five years. It is quoted by presidents and celebrities, athletes and their coaches, business leaders and innovators, though perhaps it is never more powerfully quoted than when a mother or father asks a child, "Will that help you become the-best-version-of-yourself?"
Kelly's personal interests include golf, music, art, literature, investing, spirituality, and spending time with his wife, Meggie, and their children Walter, Isabel, Harry, Ralph, and Simon.
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December 9, 2025
I am torn over this book
On the one hand, the core message rings extremely (and sometimes uncomfortably) close to home. In many people's lives, religion has become an afterthought. Church is something to drag yourself to on early Sunday mornings and praying is often belatedly remembered when you want something.
On the other hand, Kelly's book comes off like a angry motivational speech. Which in itself isn't bad, but I disliked how many of the short stories felt like they were cheesy emotional manipulations. (I.e. the son is ungrateful to his father, his father suffers a life threatening heart attack, the son realizes he had been wrong all along).
In addition, it felt like Kelly flip-flopped on a few big issues. Notably, this occurred when discussing change and the Catholic Church, he says:
While I often wasn't a fan of the tone (at times it became borderline accusatory and preachy), I still feel like I gained a new perspective on religion and am interested in learning more (Though, perhaps from a different author. I really enjoyed C.S. Lewis's book Mere Christianity and will likely read another of his to expand my knowledge.)
Popsugar 2018 Reading Challenge: A book about a problem facing society today
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On the one hand, the core message rings extremely (and sometimes uncomfortably) close to home. In many people's lives, religion has become an afterthought. Church is something to drag yourself to on early Sunday mornings and praying is often belatedly remembered when you want something.
On the other hand, Kelly's book comes off like a angry motivational speech. Which in itself isn't bad, but I disliked how many of the short stories felt like they were cheesy emotional manipulations. (I.e. the son is ungrateful to his father, his father suffers a life threatening heart attack, the son realizes he had been wrong all along).
In addition, it felt like Kelly flip-flopped on a few big issues. Notably, this occurred when discussing change and the Catholic Church, he says:
He goes on to explain that a 2000 year old Church needs time to catch up with the rapidly shifting congregation (more educated, more diverse). Yet he lists all the ways the Catholic Church will not change:
"History also teaches us that those who try to prevent change and avoid change always fail."
I would have appreciated some explanation after he rattled off all these hot button issues followed by the statement that we need to change to find joy and prayer. It's moments like that, that I would have preferred some outside sources to help explain why he thought the way he did.
"...reintroduction of married priests, allowing divorced Catholics to once again receive the sacraments, reviewing the Church's position on contraception and changing the nature of the roll women play in the Church."
While I often wasn't a fan of the tone (at times it became borderline accusatory and preachy), I still feel like I gained a new perspective on religion and am interested in learning more (Though, perhaps from a different author. I really enjoyed C.S. Lewis's book Mere Christianity and will likely read another of his to expand my knowledge.)
Popsugar 2018 Reading Challenge: A book about a problem facing society today
YouTube | Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat @miranda_reads
January 20, 2012
Every Catholic needs to read this book. Not just practicing Catholics, but non-practicing. Every Christian needs to read this book. Not just those who want to understand the Catholic faith better, but those who think they know what Catholicism is all about. Every spiritual seeker needs to read this book. Not just those who are trying to find a spiritual home, but those who are actively trying to find more reasons and justifications not to believe. Every atheist needs to read this book. Not just those who are willing to explore the world openly, but those who swear they will never believe. This book is a perfect primer to our Catholic Faith for the modern times. As a Catholic who returned Home to the Faith only a year and a half ago, this book set my heart on fire for the wisdom and beauty and power and TRUTH of Catholicism. I will absolutely read and reread this book a million times. The Catholic Church and her teachings are as relevant and needed as ever. This book gets to utterly simply but subtly profound truth of what it means to be a Catholic Christian. With practical ways to begin embracing, studying, pursuing, deepening, growing, and loving the Faith all the more, this little book is literally perfect.
February 10, 2017
My 3-star rating is simply a composite of the two ratings I'd prefer to give this book. I was skeptical after I glanced through this book at my church. I'm careful (some would say picky) about the books I read about my faith, and this one didn't seem particularly well-researched. I could find no sanction from any priest or a sign that what the book contained was "valid Catholic teaching." I took it home anyway - couldn't hurt, right? - and let it sit on my bookshelf for a few months. Only after two friends, whose opinions I respect, recommended the book to me did I finally sit down and read it. It is a fairly quick read, but I tried the whole time not to judge it prematurely. I just finished it, and the final verdict is that I both like and dislike this book.
Reasons for a 2-star rating: My main problem going into this book is that there are no citations of religious texts, nor endorsements from the Church or from any priests or anyone reliable in the Church. The short biography of Mr Kelly doesn't give much information on where he picked up his Catholic education. I wondered if the information in the book would be accurate Catholic teaching. After reading the book - the entirety of which reads like the transcript of a motivational speech - it's apparent that these citations I sought were not really necessary. Mr Kelly simply discusses what Catholics can do to reignite the faith, instead of trying to explain Church teachings to a world that has forgotten their relevance.
Another issue I had with this book is that it is not really my style of reading. Motivational speeches just aren't my thing. Throughout the book, Mr Kelly makes frequent references to things such as "the-best-version-of-yourself," "the Classroom of Silence," "Our Spiritual North Star," and "Journey of the Soul." I have a tendency to shy away from language like that and it caused me to scoff at the text sometimes (especially when the author made a reference to Jesus "opening his divine lips slowly [with] calm assurance" (p. 29)). I felt that language like this would not help those already skeptical about the Church to take this book seriously.
Reasons for a 4-star rating: If you can get past Mr Kelly's style of writing and listen to his message instead of his wording, this book really does have an excellent message. Mr Kelly discusses the modern philosophies that have greatly eaten away at Catholicism: individualism, hedonism, and minimalism. I can see those philosophies well represented in my own life, so I could easily make a connection, and that helped to make the entire book very relevant. I'd like to pretend other people need to hear this book's message more than I do but honestly, I am not doing a thing to help the Church or my faith in my daily life. Mr Kelly's book offers reasons why that could be as well as suggestions and encouragements - not demands, not rules - on how to evolve into a good, inspiring, active Catholic, and that is a very valuable message.
Reasons for a 2-star rating: My main problem going into this book is that there are no citations of religious texts, nor endorsements from the Church or from any priests or anyone reliable in the Church. The short biography of Mr Kelly doesn't give much information on where he picked up his Catholic education. I wondered if the information in the book would be accurate Catholic teaching. After reading the book - the entirety of which reads like the transcript of a motivational speech - it's apparent that these citations I sought were not really necessary. Mr Kelly simply discusses what Catholics can do to reignite the faith, instead of trying to explain Church teachings to a world that has forgotten their relevance.
Another issue I had with this book is that it is not really my style of reading. Motivational speeches just aren't my thing. Throughout the book, Mr Kelly makes frequent references to things such as "the-best-version-of-yourself," "the Classroom of Silence," "Our Spiritual North Star," and "Journey of the Soul." I have a tendency to shy away from language like that and it caused me to scoff at the text sometimes (especially when the author made a reference to Jesus "opening his divine lips slowly [with] calm assurance" (p. 29)). I felt that language like this would not help those already skeptical about the Church to take this book seriously.
Reasons for a 4-star rating: If you can get past Mr Kelly's style of writing and listen to his message instead of his wording, this book really does have an excellent message. Mr Kelly discusses the modern philosophies that have greatly eaten away at Catholicism: individualism, hedonism, and minimalism. I can see those philosophies well represented in my own life, so I could easily make a connection, and that helped to make the entire book very relevant. I'd like to pretend other people need to hear this book's message more than I do but honestly, I am not doing a thing to help the Church or my faith in my daily life. Mr Kelly's book offers reasons why that could be as well as suggestions and encouragements - not demands, not rules - on how to evolve into a good, inspiring, active Catholic, and that is a very valuable message.
July 22, 2021
Oh my.... Catholicism for super-dummies, or Catholicism explained to the YA crowd (that includes adults who read YA books of course).
While the spirit of this book is absolutely positive and hopeful, the book itself is disappointingly shallow, I would say almost borderline insulting if you understand the level of sophistication that catholic doctrine can reach. Some comments are even misleading. Imagine Tony Robbins talking to a huge audience about Catholicism: a lot of energy, a lot of catch-phrases, but incredibly shallow waters that do not do justice to the Fathers of the Church.
I'm sorry, being Catholic myself, I am convinced that "shallow" doesn't cut it.
Either you study, go deep into the doctrine and make a real effort to understand what Catholicism is all about, or you won't ever properly get it. Reading this book might a good encouragement, but certainly not an effort to really understand Catholicism.
Why shallow and misleading? Well, for example, a Saint is cheerfully compared to Michael Jordan. That is a very misleading comparison, because Michael Jordan is a perfect example of one of the most prideful human beings on Earth - he has built his life on being hyper-competitive and on beating everybody else in a zero-sum game. I hope no one thinks that being a saint has anything to do with that approach to life.
Another example. In the introduction, a father is experiencing the death of his son in a hospital, and this is dramatized with lots of capital letters in a couple of pages, to give us an idea of God's love for us. “He gave his son's life for us... do you know what that means?” Maybe I don’t, but I believe it has nothing to do with that soap-opera dramatization included in the introduction.
While the spirit of this book is absolutely positive and hopeful, the book itself is disappointingly shallow, I would say almost borderline insulting if you understand the level of sophistication that catholic doctrine can reach. Some comments are even misleading. Imagine Tony Robbins talking to a huge audience about Catholicism: a lot of energy, a lot of catch-phrases, but incredibly shallow waters that do not do justice to the Fathers of the Church.
I'm sorry, being Catholic myself, I am convinced that "shallow" doesn't cut it.
Either you study, go deep into the doctrine and make a real effort to understand what Catholicism is all about, or you won't ever properly get it. Reading this book might a good encouragement, but certainly not an effort to really understand Catholicism.
Why shallow and misleading? Well, for example, a Saint is cheerfully compared to Michael Jordan. That is a very misleading comparison, because Michael Jordan is a perfect example of one of the most prideful human beings on Earth - he has built his life on being hyper-competitive and on beating everybody else in a zero-sum game. I hope no one thinks that being a saint has anything to do with that approach to life.
Another example. In the introduction, a father is experiencing the death of his son in a hospital, and this is dramatized with lots of capital letters in a couple of pages, to give us an idea of God's love for us. “He gave his son's life for us... do you know what that means?” Maybe I don’t, but I believe it has nothing to do with that soap-opera dramatization included in the introduction.
February 10, 2017
I have completely mixed feelings about this book.
On one hand, the writing is cheesy, overdone and repetitive. Kelly's constant use of his catchphrase 'best-version-of-yourself' gets incredibly annoying. I also felt Kelly made some sweeping generalizations about the church, Catholics and non-Catholics that were either unfair or untrue, especially in Part Four of the book.
On the other hand, in getting past the annoying writing style and the generalizations that bothered me so much, I found some inspiration in Kelly's suggestions on how to grow my faith and draw nearer to the church. I thought he had some great suggestions on how to better appreciate Mass and Catholic practices.
I think the book is certainly worth a read if you're Catholic and wanting to grow your faith, but I also think you need to read it with a discerning eye and consider it as just one of many Catholic voices.
On one hand, the writing is cheesy, overdone and repetitive. Kelly's constant use of his catchphrase 'best-version-of-yourself' gets incredibly annoying. I also felt Kelly made some sweeping generalizations about the church, Catholics and non-Catholics that were either unfair or untrue, especially in Part Four of the book.
On the other hand, in getting past the annoying writing style and the generalizations that bothered me so much, I found some inspiration in Kelly's suggestions on how to grow my faith and draw nearer to the church. I thought he had some great suggestions on how to better appreciate Mass and Catholic practices.
I think the book is certainly worth a read if you're Catholic and wanting to grow your faith, but I also think you need to read it with a discerning eye and consider it as just one of many Catholic voices.
February 6, 2013
I, personally, felt Rediscover Catholicism, by Matthew Kelly, was much too repetitive and, at times, I hoped and wanted this book to be more than I found it to be.
The constant repetition and grammatical and editing errors throughout were, at times, very difficult to move beyond. And I almost did put down the book several times because of simple annoyance. The book could have been, perhaps, half its length and, thereby, more effective. I also found the abundance of trite stories used to exemplify particular points just that, as if trying to win over the reader through emotionalism. I did not find this effective in the least.
I felt uncomfortable, at times, when presented with Mr. Kelly’s opinion about the differences between Catholics and Protestants. It seemed more of a prejudice against and criticism of the non-Catholic rather than a simple explanation. Regarding a description of non-Catholics in general, Mr. Kelly speaks in error. In chapter fifteen, he states “…all non-Catholic Christians are Protestants, whether they are aware of it or not. Though the great majority could probably not tell you what they are protesting.” This statement, in my opinion, serves only to criticize those who are not Catholic, and does more to turn people away rather than bring them to the Church. This is simply his unfounded opinion. I find such a statement (1) ignorant of the truth (as he apparently is not aware of any history/reality regarding Orthodox Christians) and inexcusable, and (2) offensive to all who are not Catholic. It is blatantly belittling and baiting.
Still, there are many good points in the book regarding the origins of the Church, the Mass and basic beliefs of Catholicism, and it does give those not aware a better understanding of what Catholicism is about, elevating it to an actual lifestyle rather than an organization trying to manipulate its followers through rules and regulations.
I did, also, find the chapter containing stories/biographies about a select group of saints to be very interesting. And it sparked my interest enough to find out more about some of these people, and others as well.
All in all, I felt it had good points about how we look at our lives, the dangers of the society in which we now live and how to better that through bettering our individual lives. And it contained interesting points regarding the birth of the Church, explaining what the Catholic church is and how to live a Christian life in general. So, it serves well as a historical and reference book.
At the end of the book, Mr. Kelly writes “For a long time I have wanted to write this book, and yet, at the same time I wish I had another fifty years to prepare.” While I feel Mr. Kelly’s intentions are good, and his motive/rationale is right, I can’t help but feel that the book might have been more effective if he, indeed, had taken more time and thought.
With all of (what I feel are) its weaknesses, it is still a good book to have in one’s library. (I was only able to rate in whole numbers, and rated the book a 2; however, a 2.5 would be more accurate.) As a book touted as the B-12 shot for Catholicism, I’m not sure it succeeds.
Rediscover Catholicism: A Spiritual Guide to Living with Passion & Purpose
The constant repetition and grammatical and editing errors throughout were, at times, very difficult to move beyond. And I almost did put down the book several times because of simple annoyance. The book could have been, perhaps, half its length and, thereby, more effective. I also found the abundance of trite stories used to exemplify particular points just that, as if trying to win over the reader through emotionalism. I did not find this effective in the least.
I felt uncomfortable, at times, when presented with Mr. Kelly’s opinion about the differences between Catholics and Protestants. It seemed more of a prejudice against and criticism of the non-Catholic rather than a simple explanation. Regarding a description of non-Catholics in general, Mr. Kelly speaks in error. In chapter fifteen, he states “…all non-Catholic Christians are Protestants, whether they are aware of it or not. Though the great majority could probably not tell you what they are protesting.” This statement, in my opinion, serves only to criticize those who are not Catholic, and does more to turn people away rather than bring them to the Church. This is simply his unfounded opinion. I find such a statement (1) ignorant of the truth (as he apparently is not aware of any history/reality regarding Orthodox Christians) and inexcusable, and (2) offensive to all who are not Catholic. It is blatantly belittling and baiting.
Still, there are many good points in the book regarding the origins of the Church, the Mass and basic beliefs of Catholicism, and it does give those not aware a better understanding of what Catholicism is about, elevating it to an actual lifestyle rather than an organization trying to manipulate its followers through rules and regulations.
I did, also, find the chapter containing stories/biographies about a select group of saints to be very interesting. And it sparked my interest enough to find out more about some of these people, and others as well.
All in all, I felt it had good points about how we look at our lives, the dangers of the society in which we now live and how to better that through bettering our individual lives. And it contained interesting points regarding the birth of the Church, explaining what the Catholic church is and how to live a Christian life in general. So, it serves well as a historical and reference book.
At the end of the book, Mr. Kelly writes “For a long time I have wanted to write this book, and yet, at the same time I wish I had another fifty years to prepare.” While I feel Mr. Kelly’s intentions are good, and his motive/rationale is right, I can’t help but feel that the book might have been more effective if he, indeed, had taken more time and thought.
With all of (what I feel are) its weaknesses, it is still a good book to have in one’s library. (I was only able to rate in whole numbers, and rated the book a 2; however, a 2.5 would be more accurate.) As a book touted as the B-12 shot for Catholicism, I’m not sure it succeeds.
Rediscover Catholicism: A Spiritual Guide to Living with Passion & Purpose
May 29, 2013
Copies of this book were given away for free in the archdiocese of St. Paul around Christmas time. I wasn't excited to read it, but there were some book studies getting started and I thought it would be a good way to meet people.
After actually giving it a chance, I think of it this way:
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People +
Catholicsm +
Physical/Spiritual Trainer =
__________________________________________________________
Rediscovering Catholicism
I felt challenged so many times when I read it - sometimes in an invigorating way, sometimes an uncomfortable way. Am I daily becoming the best version of myself (and what is that best version anyway)? Am I surviving life or thriving in it? Does my prayer center on my own requests or am I remembering to listen and ask God what He wants? Do I live a life of discipline?
Our book study group was inspired, and we found that each of us were sensing a unique invitation to respond to that "best version" in some way. For one, it meant creating a space for Catholic singers and songwriters to share their music. For another, it meant growing in patience as a nurse and seeing each patient one by one. For another, it meant working with convicts on parole.
Reading this book has actually changed the way I live my life.
After actually giving it a chance, I think of it this way:
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People +
Catholicsm +
Physical/Spiritual Trainer =
__________________________________________________________
Rediscovering Catholicism
I felt challenged so many times when I read it - sometimes in an invigorating way, sometimes an uncomfortable way. Am I daily becoming the best version of myself (and what is that best version anyway)? Am I surviving life or thriving in it? Does my prayer center on my own requests or am I remembering to listen and ask God what He wants? Do I live a life of discipline?
Our book study group was inspired, and we found that each of us were sensing a unique invitation to respond to that "best version" in some way. For one, it meant creating a space for Catholic singers and songwriters to share their music. For another, it meant growing in patience as a nurse and seeing each patient one by one. For another, it meant working with convicts on parole.
Reading this book has actually changed the way I live my life.
January 31, 2017
I have been giving copies of this book away left and right. It's so easy to read, and while Kelly goes deep on some Catholic insight, he keeps things accessible. I rate it as one of the best books about Catholicism that I've read. I reviewed it in full on my blog, here.
May 27, 2017
I rated this high because I want to support the book ... it was designed as a tool to draw Catholics back to the church and I think it will be effective to that end. It is visually attractive and quickly illustrates some of the glory and genius of the Catholic church. At the same time, it meets people where they are (if they have left the church or at least have a foot out the door) by acknowledging “issues" with the church and the culture in general. It also uses modern ideals like “being the best version of yourself” and living an “authentic life” to connect with the popular psychology of the day. Kelly worked as a consultant (motivational speaker) for fortune-500 companies and you can feel the slick, professional style in his inspirational self-help writing.
That said, the target of the book seems to be individuals who have overlooked their Catholic faith and wandered down other paths. This book could be the catalyst that re-ignites their interest and gets them to take a second look at Catholicism. That second look would require seeking out church history and theology in other books. This book just contains brief glimpses or references to that information. Practicing Catholics in search of a serious theology book should look elsewhere. This book is about wetting the appetite, not setting out a feast of Catholic teachings.
That said, the target of the book seems to be individuals who have overlooked their Catholic faith and wandered down other paths. This book could be the catalyst that re-ignites their interest and gets them to take a second look at Catholicism. That second look would require seeking out church history and theology in other books. This book just contains brief glimpses or references to that information. Practicing Catholics in search of a serious theology book should look elsewhere. This book is about wetting the appetite, not setting out a feast of Catholic teachings.
February 28, 2011
No matter what your religion is this book will shed light on how to be a better person, how to give, and how to be a better version of yourself. Might even learn how to become Holy! I am sure becoming more aware.
April 1, 2013
Matthew Kelly has done a public service for the rest of us. This is a pep talk, a field guide, a spiritual work of mercy, and the literary equivalent of a Swiss Army knife. Kelly sometimes repeats himself, but in my opinion, the book's only significant shortcoming is that it lacks an index.
May 17, 2018
In the last three years I have read 17 books by Matthew Kelly. And I have found that all of them have helped me grow in my faith. From reading 'Why Am I Here?' with my children, many times over to finally getting around to reading this book. I say finally because this book along with The Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic, were the first titles of Kelly's that I kept hearing about. But it would be a while before I got around to reading either. I think part of it was fear if disappointment. I had heard so many great things about this book, it was going to be hard to live up to the hype. And I loved the other Rediscover … books by Kelly that I had read. But I should have known better. This book is an amazing read. And why this book has been so popular for the 16 years since it was first published. When this book was first published, in 2002, the subtitle of the book was: 'Journeying Toward Our Spiritual North Star', but the subtitle changed around 2010 to the current one of 'A Spiritual Guide to Living with Passion & Purpose'. But no matter what the subtitle of the book is it is an incredible read. For devote Catholics it will help deepen your faith, for those considering Catholicism or a return to Catholicism I would considerate almost essential reading. It will lay the ground work for a devoted, committed, and vibrant practice of faith.
The sections n this book are:
Prologue Imagine This...
Introduction Where to From Here?
PART ONE We Become What We Celebrate
Our Universal Hunger
The Prevailing Philosophy
Is Jesus Still Relevant?
Searching For Identity
What Are We Celebrating?
PART TWO The Authentic Life
What Is The Authentic Life?
The Path Is Well Trodden
Even A Blind Man Knows...
What Sets Them Apart?
Their Attraction And Influence
Who Will Be Next?
PART THREE The Seven Pillars of Catholic Spirituality
Confession
Daily Prayer
The Mass
The Bible
Fasting
Spiritual Reading
The Rosary
PART FOUR Now Is Our Time
Time For A Change
Leadership
Return To Virtue
Once I started reading this book I could hardly put it down. And with how many of Kelly's book I have read and talks I have listened to, much of the book was familiar. Some of the stories he uses, and examples from his life or lives of others are uses elsewhere in his works. There was so much in this book that we need to learn and learn again. This book is an incredible read if all you walk away with is the 7 Pillars of Catholic Spirituality. But there is so much more than that in this volume.
This is one of those spiritual books I will return to often. I believe in the years and generations to come that it will become a spiritual classic, along the lines of Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence. It is a book that has been impacting lives for 16 years and shows no inclination to slow it's impact and reach. This is a book I would be comfortable giving to any Catholic, fallen away Catholic, or friend interested in knowing about Catholicism. It is hard not to read this book and feel your faith invigorated and inspired.
This book is an easy read, in that it is accessible, and the material is presented in a clear and concise manner. But it is not an easy read in that you will likely be challenged, some of the stories may hit close to home. Once you have been awakened by this book you will have a choice, either to follow Jesus and the Catholic faith, or to try and go back to sleep. But that second option will be harder than you think.
Another incredible read by Matthew Kelly, and after reading this I really look forward to his forthcoming 'Rediscover the Saints'! I can give this book, all the Rediscover books, and likely anything by Kelly mu highest recommendation.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Matthew Kelly.
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2018 Catholic Reading Plan!
The sections n this book are:
Prologue Imagine This...
Introduction Where to From Here?
PART ONE We Become What We Celebrate
Our Universal Hunger
The Prevailing Philosophy
Is Jesus Still Relevant?
Searching For Identity
What Are We Celebrating?
PART TWO The Authentic Life
What Is The Authentic Life?
The Path Is Well Trodden
Even A Blind Man Knows...
What Sets Them Apart?
Their Attraction And Influence
Who Will Be Next?
PART THREE The Seven Pillars of Catholic Spirituality
Confession
Daily Prayer
The Mass
The Bible
Fasting
Spiritual Reading
The Rosary
PART FOUR Now Is Our Time
Time For A Change
Leadership
Return To Virtue
Once I started reading this book I could hardly put it down. And with how many of Kelly's book I have read and talks I have listened to, much of the book was familiar. Some of the stories he uses, and examples from his life or lives of others are uses elsewhere in his works. There was so much in this book that we need to learn and learn again. This book is an incredible read if all you walk away with is the 7 Pillars of Catholic Spirituality. But there is so much more than that in this volume.
This is one of those spiritual books I will return to often. I believe in the years and generations to come that it will become a spiritual classic, along the lines of Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence. It is a book that has been impacting lives for 16 years and shows no inclination to slow it's impact and reach. This is a book I would be comfortable giving to any Catholic, fallen away Catholic, or friend interested in knowing about Catholicism. It is hard not to read this book and feel your faith invigorated and inspired.
This book is an easy read, in that it is accessible, and the material is presented in a clear and concise manner. But it is not an easy read in that you will likely be challenged, some of the stories may hit close to home. Once you have been awakened by this book you will have a choice, either to follow Jesus and the Catholic faith, or to try and go back to sleep. But that second option will be harder than you think.
Another incredible read by Matthew Kelly, and after reading this I really look forward to his forthcoming 'Rediscover the Saints'! I can give this book, all the Rediscover books, and likely anything by Kelly mu highest recommendation.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Matthew Kelly.
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2018 Catholic Reading Plan!
February 7, 2017
So, here's the thing about this review. I'm not Catholic. I was for about five minutes when I was born and my grandfather freaked out that my nonreligious parents didn't have me baptized, putting my tiny immortal soul into terrible danger of burning for all eternity. After that, however, I drifted between Catholic, Protestant, and the universal church of Religion Is A Waste Of Time.
I am now decidedly Protestant, but a good portion of my family is Catholic and I study the medieval Catholic church for a living. So, although I personally have no real interest in "rediscovering Catholicism," knowledge is almost always useful.
The thing about the book is that it's easy to pick on. For starters, whoever edited this needs to be taken out for a good beating--I'm not perfect by far in writing, but the comma splices and sentence fragments were actually distracting at times when I was reading. And Kelly himself doesn't always make it easier; although he has a very accessible and flowing writing "voice," his battle cry is that "it seems the only accessible prejudice in this hyper-sensitive, politically correct, modern climate, is to be anti-Catholic" (p. 309, and see what I mean about the commas?). While I get what he's trying to say--and even agree, to a certain extent, that Catholicism has a lot of haters right now, most of whom don't understand the Church in the least and only know the scandals they've seen in the news--I think his self-imposed long-suffering-martyr status really gets in the way of his book's impact. You won't win a whole lot of friends if you spend whole chunks of your writing space tearing apart Protestant beliefs and setting up the idea that Protestants are as misled as everyone else, that only Catholics have God truly figured out. First off, now you're just doing to us what you're complaining the rest of the world--somehow especially us, in your mind--does to you. Secondly, we play for the same team! I don't know if anyone told you, but in a world where you feel you have no friends, it's best not to bash the people who think you're only mildly bonkers.
One of the other things that drove me nuts about this was that it's less "Rediscovering Catholicism" and more "Rediscovering Why We Have Saints." This is fine, because the saints are neat (although I'm not on board with the Levels of People idea, but hey), but saints means more than Mother Theresa and Francis of Assisi, Kelly's go-to examples. They were great, but what about Anne? Christopher? Stephen? There are whole databases of these saints that you aren't talking about, Kelly. Why?
All of this being said, there are a lot of good one-liners in here, and the first chapter reads as a good rouser for Christianity as a whole. Catholicism, at its core before people started trying to make it whatever else to "fit in" or to "stand out," is a beautiful expression of faith. I just wish that "Rediscovering Catholicism" didn't have to mean telling everyone else to bugger off.
I am now decidedly Protestant, but a good portion of my family is Catholic and I study the medieval Catholic church for a living. So, although I personally have no real interest in "rediscovering Catholicism," knowledge is almost always useful.
The thing about the book is that it's easy to pick on. For starters, whoever edited this needs to be taken out for a good beating--I'm not perfect by far in writing, but the comma splices and sentence fragments were actually distracting at times when I was reading. And Kelly himself doesn't always make it easier; although he has a very accessible and flowing writing "voice," his battle cry is that "it seems the only accessible prejudice in this hyper-sensitive, politically correct, modern climate, is to be anti-Catholic" (p. 309, and see what I mean about the commas?). While I get what he's trying to say--and even agree, to a certain extent, that Catholicism has a lot of haters right now, most of whom don't understand the Church in the least and only know the scandals they've seen in the news--I think his self-imposed long-suffering-martyr status really gets in the way of his book's impact. You won't win a whole lot of friends if you spend whole chunks of your writing space tearing apart Protestant beliefs and setting up the idea that Protestants are as misled as everyone else, that only Catholics have God truly figured out. First off, now you're just doing to us what you're complaining the rest of the world--somehow especially us, in your mind--does to you. Secondly, we play for the same team! I don't know if anyone told you, but in a world where you feel you have no friends, it's best not to bash the people who think you're only mildly bonkers.
One of the other things that drove me nuts about this was that it's less "Rediscovering Catholicism" and more "Rediscovering Why We Have Saints." This is fine, because the saints are neat (although I'm not on board with the Levels of People idea, but hey), but saints means more than Mother Theresa and Francis of Assisi, Kelly's go-to examples. They were great, but what about Anne? Christopher? Stephen? There are whole databases of these saints that you aren't talking about, Kelly. Why?
All of this being said, there are a lot of good one-liners in here, and the first chapter reads as a good rouser for Christianity as a whole. Catholicism, at its core before people started trying to make it whatever else to "fit in" or to "stand out," is a beautiful expression of faith. I just wish that "Rediscovering Catholicism" didn't have to mean telling everyone else to bugger off.
April 19, 2012
For the first hundred pages I was skeptical; the prose wanders quite a bit, and reads like a motivational talk filled with generalities but little of substance. I kept waiting for him to dig in and tell us how to get from here to there.
The overarching theme is that to revitalize our faith, the Church and the world, we must strive to become the "best versions of ourselves." It is a a worthy theme, but it took a long time to make every point; the book could have been cut by a third and still had the same impact.
However, it is a worthwhile read for the chapters on the Pillars of Catholicism: confession, daily prayer, the Mass, the Bible, fasting, spiritual reading, and the rosary. Here, at last, he really delves into the rationale behind each of these practices. For instance, in the fasting chaper, he outlines the idea that true freedom can only be found when we are not slaves to the body. We would like to think our mind and soul is in charge, but the truth is that the body's desires are the driving force behind many of our actions. Many of the most self-destructive behaviors in our society are possible because the body is behind the wheel instead of the mind and will. Fasting teaches you discipline and frees you from the slavery to the body's desires.
Once I got there, I understood his reticence to hit specifics. Every person's calling is different, as unique as the individual, and his goal is to show us a path to finding out for ourselves what that is. A valid point, I think.
Overall: Well worth reading, but be aware that you'll have to wade through a lot of words to get to the point.
The overarching theme is that to revitalize our faith, the Church and the world, we must strive to become the "best versions of ourselves." It is a a worthy theme, but it took a long time to make every point; the book could have been cut by a third and still had the same impact.
However, it is a worthwhile read for the chapters on the Pillars of Catholicism: confession, daily prayer, the Mass, the Bible, fasting, spiritual reading, and the rosary. Here, at last, he really delves into the rationale behind each of these practices. For instance, in the fasting chaper, he outlines the idea that true freedom can only be found when we are not slaves to the body. We would like to think our mind and soul is in charge, but the truth is that the body's desires are the driving force behind many of our actions. Many of the most self-destructive behaviors in our society are possible because the body is behind the wheel instead of the mind and will. Fasting teaches you discipline and frees you from the slavery to the body's desires.
Once I got there, I understood his reticence to hit specifics. Every person's calling is different, as unique as the individual, and his goal is to show us a path to finding out for ourselves what that is. A valid point, I think.
Overall: Well worth reading, but be aware that you'll have to wade through a lot of words to get to the point.
December 5, 2012
This book was a difficult one for me to read because I truly believe there is some legitimate truth and wisdom in its pages, but ultimately that truth and wisdom are compromised by Kelly's black-and-white approach to something as complex as morality and religion, along with his in-crowd approach to Catholicism (vs. other religions and belief systems).
Kelly hits on some interesting themes like discipline, confession, and authentic knowledge of self in this book, and at times he does so with the grandeur and flash of a true spiritual leader. With that said, however, I had trouble even taking the good parts of his message away after reading because of his constant divisive tone. Kelly is quick to criticize, and seems to get away with it because most of the time he is criticizing something as general and faceless as "modern culture" or "people in today's world," but at times his derision falls especially harshly on non-Catholic Christians, which I found to be sadly unnecessary.
As a Catholic myself, I was sad to be let down by a book and by an author so many in my faith had recommended to me as a beacon of truth in a struggling religion. I hope Mr. Kelly recognizes how harmful his words may be, and how, while trying to strengthen a much in-need community, he is needlessly harming another in the process.
Kelly hits on some interesting themes like discipline, confession, and authentic knowledge of self in this book, and at times he does so with the grandeur and flash of a true spiritual leader. With that said, however, I had trouble even taking the good parts of his message away after reading because of his constant divisive tone. Kelly is quick to criticize, and seems to get away with it because most of the time he is criticizing something as general and faceless as "modern culture" or "people in today's world," but at times his derision falls especially harshly on non-Catholic Christians, which I found to be sadly unnecessary.
As a Catholic myself, I was sad to be let down by a book and by an author so many in my faith had recommended to me as a beacon of truth in a struggling religion. I hope Mr. Kelly recognizes how harmful his words may be, and how, while trying to strengthen a much in-need community, he is needlessly harming another in the process.
January 30, 2017
Very down-to-earth in his writing, Matthew Kelly points out where modern Catholics have gotten off track and gently reminds us of our call to holiness--to be the 'best-versions-of-ourselves'. He describes what holiness is--not an unattainable goal only grasped by saints, but choices we make in small everyday decisions. He then tells us why we should want it since in our hearts we know we already do, and then how to go about it.
In the last part, he describes the Seven Pillars of Catholicism. As a life-long Catholic, I had never understood the practice of fasting as clearly as when he explained it as the prayer of the body. I'd never thought about needing to consciously grow in virtue instead of just trying to stay away from vice. He calls for change--not worldwide, but in each of our small lives that we may slowly change the world.
I'm so impressed at his wisdom in his youth. This book is available FOR FREE at DynamicCatholic.com, just pay shipping. (August 2010)
In the last part, he describes the Seven Pillars of Catholicism. As a life-long Catholic, I had never understood the practice of fasting as clearly as when he explained it as the prayer of the body. I'd never thought about needing to consciously grow in virtue instead of just trying to stay away from vice. He calls for change--not worldwide, but in each of our small lives that we may slowly change the world.
I'm so impressed at his wisdom in his youth. This book is available FOR FREE at DynamicCatholic.com, just pay shipping. (August 2010)
October 9, 2011
This is a great easy read. It opens with the statement that the Jesus and Catholic Church has done more positive things for mankind than any other person organization or nation in history ie healthcare & education.
It caused me to think about what I am as a person and ask if I am the best I can be. It encouraged me to look at who I want to be in the future and then take the steps to make it happen. It also details the "Jesus philosophy" is the key of true happiness. That contrary to what culture feed us as good, it is a philosophy of self donation, discipline and seeking God's plan for each and every individual.
There is much much more......
Get it here:
http://www.dynamiccatholic.com/Redisc...
It caused me to think about what I am as a person and ask if I am the best I can be. It encouraged me to look at who I want to be in the future and then take the steps to make it happen. It also details the "Jesus philosophy" is the key of true happiness. That contrary to what culture feed us as good, it is a philosophy of self donation, discipline and seeking God's plan for each and every individual.
There is much much more......
Get it here:
http://www.dynamiccatholic.com/Redisc...
September 10, 2011
This book has inspired me to make our church a more spiritual place. I hope every Christian person will read this to learn the Truth
December 26, 2012
Matt Kelly does a terrific narrative of why Catholicism is structured in a way that not only is a pathway towards God but is also a recipe to being the best person we can be.
My father-in-law originally recommended this book. Every 10 pages or so, there would be a point made that I’ve often thought but never fully realized until Matt Kelly draws it out. The book appealed to my common sense and even more, to my sense of rationality in an increasingly irrational world. Just a couple of examples might better show why I’m giving this book the 5 stars.
Holiness as an attractive quality. At first when we hear of someone being like a saint, we just believe they’re sheltered somehow. But Kelly describes this in a different light, as the attractiveness of Jesus, something that has lasted more than 2,000 years and the simple fascination whenever someone goes out of his way to ease the burden of another. There is something inherently interesting in these people who are kind in the face of what can be a mean and crazy world.
The three prevailing philosophies of today. In place of what had been a Christian value system, in the US and many other countries, there seems to be a sliding acceptance of these principles: individualism (what’s in it for me?), hedonism (what do I feel like doing right now?) and minimalism (how can I get it with the lowest possible effort?). It is almost an economic belief that life is somehow a game where we maximize pleasure and comfort for minimum efforts and then “win”. I can clearly see this, as I fall into myself: why is so-and-so having more fun than I am in life and working less? I must not be looking out for myself properly. It almost seems natural to say these things and yet at their core, this rationale is not Christian.
Complexity in our lives. The author believes our lives are suffering under an intolerable weight of ever-increasing complexities. We have a diseased fascination for acquiring facts, acquiring abilities at video games, at our jobs, at information on what’s going on with our friends on Facebook, what going on with our co-workers at the meeting I wasn’t invited to, what the other people in the neighborhood are doing. There is a power in simplicity that we have lost and this is discussed in detail in the Spiritual Reading chapter.
Last that comes to mind, is the author’s assertion that the solution to a distortion or overemphasis of a good is never to abolish the good in question. I personally get kind of turned off when hearing inspirational speakers or examples of saint-like people and I think the reason is because I feel I will never be “all that”. So, the speakers’ examples of how to live a better life is similarly rejected in my mind as a bridge too far for my small steps. But thanks to this book, I think I can appreciate where at least a few steps towards Christ, towards bringing myself closer to the better person I can be and therefore a few steps toward a more authentic life is really what I desire in my core.
This book returned me to the confessional, has me tuning in to particular aspects of the Sunday readings and looking forward to the simple resonance of the rosary. I think the practical wisdom of this book will have me returning to it several times a year and really using it as a guideline throughout my life. I don’t suppose you can ask for much more from a book.
My father-in-law originally recommended this book. Every 10 pages or so, there would be a point made that I’ve often thought but never fully realized until Matt Kelly draws it out. The book appealed to my common sense and even more, to my sense of rationality in an increasingly irrational world. Just a couple of examples might better show why I’m giving this book the 5 stars.
Holiness as an attractive quality. At first when we hear of someone being like a saint, we just believe they’re sheltered somehow. But Kelly describes this in a different light, as the attractiveness of Jesus, something that has lasted more than 2,000 years and the simple fascination whenever someone goes out of his way to ease the burden of another. There is something inherently interesting in these people who are kind in the face of what can be a mean and crazy world.
The three prevailing philosophies of today. In place of what had been a Christian value system, in the US and many other countries, there seems to be a sliding acceptance of these principles: individualism (what’s in it for me?), hedonism (what do I feel like doing right now?) and minimalism (how can I get it with the lowest possible effort?). It is almost an economic belief that life is somehow a game where we maximize pleasure and comfort for minimum efforts and then “win”. I can clearly see this, as I fall into myself: why is so-and-so having more fun than I am in life and working less? I must not be looking out for myself properly. It almost seems natural to say these things and yet at their core, this rationale is not Christian.
Complexity in our lives. The author believes our lives are suffering under an intolerable weight of ever-increasing complexities. We have a diseased fascination for acquiring facts, acquiring abilities at video games, at our jobs, at information on what’s going on with our friends on Facebook, what going on with our co-workers at the meeting I wasn’t invited to, what the other people in the neighborhood are doing. There is a power in simplicity that we have lost and this is discussed in detail in the Spiritual Reading chapter.
Last that comes to mind, is the author’s assertion that the solution to a distortion or overemphasis of a good is never to abolish the good in question. I personally get kind of turned off when hearing inspirational speakers or examples of saint-like people and I think the reason is because I feel I will never be “all that”. So, the speakers’ examples of how to live a better life is similarly rejected in my mind as a bridge too far for my small steps. But thanks to this book, I think I can appreciate where at least a few steps towards Christ, towards bringing myself closer to the better person I can be and therefore a few steps toward a more authentic life is really what I desire in my core.
This book returned me to the confessional, has me tuning in to particular aspects of the Sunday readings and looking forward to the simple resonance of the rosary. I think the practical wisdom of this book will have me returning to it several times a year and really using it as a guideline throughout my life. I don’t suppose you can ask for much more from a book.
February 23, 2013
I enjoyed connecting with the approach of this book. Better suited for someone who has a Christian background.
We are called to move beyond the surface concerns of our lives, to explore and experience something deeper. We are hungry for truth. The theme of the book is to live an authentic life.
The way we consume leads us to think less and less about more and more.
Kelly describes three philosophies of today:
1. Fruits of individualism: greed, selfishness, exploitation- what is in it for me
2. Hedonism- feels good do it. But in end it produces not pleasure, but despair w addictions and enslavment
3.Minimalism -is the enemy of excellence and father of mediocrity .the least I can do
He sees catholicism's alternative philosophy as one of a spirit of service, or what is the most I can do. Maybe because I have spent years in learning to detach and take care of self, I am ready to thing happily about "what is the most I can do."
I like the emphasis on needing discipline in our life.
To be a disciple- a trident- humble, docile, teachable listener.
When are we most fully alive? When we embrace a life of discipline which doesn't enslave us but sets us free. Practice discipline in the spiritual, emotional, physical and mental.
Freedom isn't the ability to do whatever you want, but strength of character n self possession to do what is good, true, noble and right.
For me, it got me re-energized to focus and appreciate the gifts of my faith.
We are called to move beyond the surface concerns of our lives, to explore and experience something deeper. We are hungry for truth. The theme of the book is to live an authentic life.
The way we consume leads us to think less and less about more and more.
Kelly describes three philosophies of today:
1. Fruits of individualism: greed, selfishness, exploitation- what is in it for me
2. Hedonism- feels good do it. But in end it produces not pleasure, but despair w addictions and enslavment
3.Minimalism -is the enemy of excellence and father of mediocrity .the least I can do
He sees catholicism's alternative philosophy as one of a spirit of service, or what is the most I can do. Maybe because I have spent years in learning to detach and take care of self, I am ready to thing happily about "what is the most I can do."
I like the emphasis on needing discipline in our life.
To be a disciple- a trident- humble, docile, teachable listener.
When are we most fully alive? When we embrace a life of discipline which doesn't enslave us but sets us free. Practice discipline in the spiritual, emotional, physical and mental.
Freedom isn't the ability to do whatever you want, but strength of character n self possession to do what is good, true, noble and right.
For me, it got me re-energized to focus and appreciate the gifts of my faith.
January 27, 2012
This book reads like a hastily written college term paper. It contains many trite and inapt analogies and phrases that fail to capture my imagination such as the "great Spiritual North Star" which describes how our souls ought to be oriented. Kelly occasionally identifies gems of the faith, but he attempts to cover a breadth of topics at the expense of depth and occasionally gets key aspects of the faith wrong. For instance, he says that the saints are "dead people" and he would rather be friends with dead people over some of his earthly options. Saints are not dead people. They are fully alive in the beatific vision and the fullness of God's glory.
At the end of the book, he identifies the writing as a personal reflection on his own faith journey, however, this is not clear until the last pages. While the book doesn't have a bishop's imprimatur is carries a tone of authoritativeness. The title alone, "Rediscovering Catholicism," appeals to readers who have fallen away from the faith, yet its flat, bromidic content is not likely to bring people back to stay.
At the end of the book, he identifies the writing as a personal reflection on his own faith journey, however, this is not clear until the last pages. While the book doesn't have a bishop's imprimatur is carries a tone of authoritativeness. The title alone, "Rediscovering Catholicism," appeals to readers who have fallen away from the faith, yet its flat, bromidic content is not likely to bring people back to stay.
April 24, 2012
I liked this book a lot better than Kelly's, "The Rhythm of Life." In "Rediscovering Catholicism," Kelly talks of the importance of evangelization. I kept wanting evangelization to happen in "Rhythm," and it never did. As a Christian, I don't think Kelly (or any Christian for that matter) can accurately speak about being the "best version of yourself" without speaking of Christ as "the way, the truth and the life." (John 14:6.) I felt this truth was missing in "The Rhythm of Life."
Where Kelly falls short in "Rhythm," he makes up for it in "Rediscovering Catholicism." In this book, Kelly is passionate about his faith and shares, in simple terms, the definition and meaning behind Catholic spiritual practices.
Most of Kelly's apologetics are convincing. However, I do not feel Kelly effectively answers "why Catholicism" over other Christian faiths.
Kelly also has a tendency to be a bit superfluous at times, but in all, the book is an easy, interesting, thought-provoking and FREE read. Check out: http://www.dynamiccatholic.com.
Where Kelly falls short in "Rhythm," he makes up for it in "Rediscovering Catholicism." In this book, Kelly is passionate about his faith and shares, in simple terms, the definition and meaning behind Catholic spiritual practices.
Most of Kelly's apologetics are convincing. However, I do not feel Kelly effectively answers "why Catholicism" over other Christian faiths.
Kelly also has a tendency to be a bit superfluous at times, but in all, the book is an easy, interesting, thought-provoking and FREE read. Check out: http://www.dynamiccatholic.com.
September 20, 2010
My mom gave me this book and I really enjoyed it. It's a great reminder of what it means to be Catholic in today's society. It's also got some fairly stern messages that we are drifting further and further away from our roots as a religion and getting back to a strong faith can only be accomplished through things like reconciliation and self-discipline. It made me take stock of some things I want to change in my life to become the best version of myself. I've already established two areas that I need to pray about on a daily basis. I plan to re-read this book during my time each day in the "Classroom of Silence" - a great suggestion from the book for shutting out all of today's noise for a mere 10-15 minutes each day. I believe you can order the book for free. Google Matthew Kelly to find his website and the link to Dynamic Catholic.
October 17, 2011
The reason I'm giving this three stars ("liked it"), and not more, is that I believe it was written for an audience of inactive Catholics and/or non-Catholics. I do believe that it is probably a four star book for those. At the same time, there were some great things that I came away with including the vast amount of positive things the Catholic Church has done and is doing that never enters your mind because mass media will only cover the small number of negative things done by individual persons within the Catholic Church.
The seven pillars of catholic spirituality were very good with examples that brought them from theory to practice. I also appreciated the detailed example of one way to evangelize. I'm glad that I read the book and would definitely recommend it to non-Catholics and inactive Catholics.
Recommended.
The seven pillars of catholic spirituality were very good with examples that brought them from theory to practice. I also appreciated the detailed example of one way to evangelize. I'm glad that I read the book and would definitely recommend it to non-Catholics and inactive Catholics.
Recommended.
May 26, 2014
This is a book to help Catholics who have fallen out of step with the views of the Catholic church and for those practicing Catholics who want to review their faith. I fall into the latter category and I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It buoyed my faith and made me aware of things concerning faith and introduced me to nuances I was ignorant of or poorly aware of. I gave this book five stars as a rating but understand that it might be something for Catholics though a Christian of any denomination may get great value from reading.
June 9, 2011
This book was challenging in the best way possible; not in that I struggled to read it, but in that it was so thought-provoking. I have never finished a nonfiction book before and said, as I whipped out a pencil and highlighter, "I can't wait to read that again." I have already recommended it to all my Catholic and formerly Catholic friends. I have the sneaking suspicion that I may sound like a walking infomercial after this.
December 19, 2015
I'm currently reading this book, and loving it. At least so far.
As a cradle Catholic who has struggled with the Church's teachings for most of my adult life, I have finally found a book that's helping me to understand the basics of my religion and how they pertain to both my everyday life as well as my eternal life. I definitely recommend this to anyone who's missing spirituality in their lives, and to anyone who wants the keys to "living with passion and purpose."
As a cradle Catholic who has struggled with the Church's teachings for most of my adult life, I have finally found a book that's helping me to understand the basics of my religion and how they pertain to both my everyday life as well as my eternal life. I definitely recommend this to anyone who's missing spirituality in their lives, and to anyone who wants the keys to "living with passion and purpose."
March 20, 2011
This is an excellent book. It clearly states the purpose of our lives is to become holy--the best version of ourself as one can possible be. It explains many doctrines of the Catholic Church and explains what is wrong with our culture these days that inhibits living the Catholic faith. It gives an excellent summary of our faith, and makes me excited about living the faith.
September 8, 2010
Very good food for thought on a number of the fundamentals of the faith...I loved that part. I did not love his writing style, however, which was repetitive and downright annoying to read at times. He is much more compelling as a speaker than a writer.
September 24, 2012
An insightful and challenging book regarding how we have fallen away from holiness (our goal as Catholics) and becoming the best-version-of-ourself God is calling us to be. I think it's a MUST READ for all Catholics, especially those who are struggling with their Faith and Catholicism.
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