Using the Force: Star Wars and Catholicism

by Anthony Digmann

Author's the Star Wars and Catholicism offers an incredible opportunity to fuse these two cultural monoliths in a fun and productive way. Star Wars fans, youth, parents, ministers, teachers, and others will find this book an invaluable resource to illustrate the connections between the mythology of the Star Wars franchise and the eternal truths and richness of Catholicism. By exploring Star Wars through a Catholic lens, we may rediscover elements of our faith from a new perspective and share them more effectively with an increasingly post-Christian culture. “In Using the Star Wars and Catholicism, Digmann combines two of my favorite topics--the Catholic faith and the characters and events that unfolded ‘a long time ago . . . in a galaxy far, far away.’ As a Star Wars nerd, I found this book intriguing--a thoughtful and well-researched summation of the various episodes and (even the lesser known) storylines. As a Catholic Catechist and ‘Bible Geek’ I found the book edifying--an impressive and creative way in which to unpack the faith to a generation and cross-section who might not otherwise discern the truly dogmatic ‘trees’ within Endor’s forest. If the Star Wars fan in your life (or in the mirror) loves the Catholic faith as much as the not-so-holy Clone Wars and galactic battle between Empire and Rebellion, this is soon to be a surefire favorite on their shelf.” - Mark Hart, Executive Vice President, Life Teen and Catholic Author, Speaker, Radio Host “Using the Star Wars and Catholicism is not only a labor of love, it is a meticulously researched sourcebook for anyone who might find themselves in a position to catechize the Star Wars generations, or especially to evangelize youth. Writing as a fan, rather than a critic, allows Digmann to mine the Star Wars universe for connections to Christianity in general, and Catholicism in particular; connections that faithful Catholics will definitely appreciate. This is a book only a passionate fan could have written, and reading it made me want to watch the films all over again!” - Dr. James L. Papandrea, author of From Star Wars to Christ Figures in Science Fiction and Superhero Films Author Anthony Digmann serves the Catholic Church as a speaker, author, and educator. He has appeared internationally on Catholic television and radio, such as EWTN and Radio Maria. Anthony has a MA in Theology and has served professionally in Catholic schools, parish ministries, and on councils of the Archdiocese of Dubuque since 2006.

170 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 11, 2019

Reviews

[Gerald McGrane · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a Catholic Star Wars fan this is a must read. No knows both Star Wars and Catholicism as well as Digmann. He leaves no religious stone in the Star Wars universe unturned. In most cases he draws out how we might see those traces of dark and light in our own lives.

Even if you are not Catholic, but are drawn to the religious themes in Star Wars or other sagas, this is a worthwhile read.