Weird Catholic Handbook

by Michael J Lichens

Dive into the fascinating and overlooked aspects of the Catholic faith with Weird Catholic Handbook by Michael Lichens. This book takes you on a Chestertonian romp through the peculiar and intriguing elements of Catholic history, offering a refreshing perspective on the faith that combines humor, curiosity, and profound insights.

Lichens invites you to discover the bizarre and extraordinary stories that have shaped Catholicism. From saints who faced mythical monsters to the eerie beauty of bone chapels, this book uncovers the spiritual and historical significance behind these oddities. With a blend of scholarly research and engaging storytelling, Lichens brings to life the unique relics, ghostly encounters, and unusual miracles that have been part of the Church's rich tapestry.

In this book, you will

Saints and Monsters: Learn how saints like St. Michael and St. Columba battled dragons and sea monsters, challenging our modern perceptions of sanctity and heroism.Memento Mori: Explore the spiritual insights behind ossuaries and bone churches, and understand the history and purpose of unique relics such as the Incorruptibles and bejeweled skeletons.Spiritual Warfare: Delve into the ghost stories and exorcisms that have marked Catholic history, and discover how saints like St. Gregory and St. Thomas Aquinas dealt with purgatorial souls.Unusual Miracles: Uncover the strange and miraculous events that have occurred throughout Church history, from stigmata and levitation to bilocation and prophetic visions.Weird Catholic Handbook is not just a collection of odd stories; it is an invitation to see the profound truths and spiritual lessons embedded in the peculiar. Each chapter sheds light on how these unusual elements of faith have inspired devotion, art, and a deeper understanding of the divine.

Whether you're a devout Catholic, a curious skeptic, or someone who loves a good story, this book offers something for everyone. Discover how the oddities of the past can inspire and enrich your faith today.

Genres: Catholic, Nonfiction

245 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 19, 2024

Reviews

[Abby (Reader of Clean Books)]

This is incredibly fascinating and I hate to DNF it, but I just don't feel like reading the whole thing right now. Because I tend to read fiction novels and like them better than non-fiction, I'm not too surprised that I'm getting distracted by other books and not really reading this.

But I will come back to this! I guarantee it!!

[Fiona Altschuler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Perfectly enjoyable! Weird Catholic Handbook was written in a friendly, matter-of-fact style, and I leaned a lot about two of my favorite sorts of things — weird things, and Catholic things. I appreciated the defense of allegory and the explanation that "weird" is a compliment.

[Donna Duquaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is well written by a devout Catholic who explains many Catholic practices, such as relics. Far from being fantastical and macabre, it is a handbook of Catholic Tradition and history.

Which is not to say it isn't ... well, weird and creepy at times. The most bizarre story was about the "Cadaver Synod" whereby a recently deceased medieval pope's body was exhumed in order for him to stand (er, sit) trial for papal crimes. (He was found guilty.) Obviously, they couldn't give him the death penalty, but I won't tell you how they decided to mete out justice. 🥹

[Elise Chandler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely fascinating. I truly enjoyed it. 4/5 because I had to spend so much time looking up photos of these places. It needs photos!

[Marisela Casas-Gamboa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely written by a Catholic who has traveled on many pilgrimages and wants to share his love of pilgrimages with others. The book was not quite what I expected because it definitely focuses more on the catholic folklore and ghost stories more than the theological route of angels and demons. It was a nice surprise though because its a good intro to the strange side of Catholicism without giving the spooks.

[Jill Vaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick, fun and interesting book. The other explains some of the unique Catholic beliefs and traditions. Some things astounded me but was excited that two items he mentions happened in my own home state. At the end of the book he offers some ideas for pilgrimages that highlight some of the findings in the book.

[Amy Chapman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and informative!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting book that made me want to plan a pilgrimage! I highly recommend this book for Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bedazzled saints bones - this is absolutely true and why you should read this book.
Informative and wildly fun this is a great boy

[Lucrecia Nold · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun read that combines Catholic history with fun folklore and legends, from all over the world, including the U.S.

[Lakin Kastl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book for something completely different. Think of it like a palate reset. I did find a few things interesting in it though.

[Mike Kaminski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woah

Ok Wow I enjoyed this one! Really good writing and tons of interesting facts. Well done! Thanks for the expirence!

[TinaandJay Grindstaff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't stop reading this from the moment I started it. Such fascinating stories! I learned so much but in a fun and fascinating way! I think all Catholics would love this book.

[Renee M. P. T. Kray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the concept and the cover! I think there could have been even more included, but this is a great intro to the offer side of Catholic culture.