The Convert's Guide to Roman Catholicism: Your First Year in the Church

by Keith Nester

The Convert’s Guide to Roman Catholicism - Your First Year in the Church is a book written to help new converts to the Catholic Church as they take their first steps into their new faith. In his down to earth, humorous, and practical style, Keith Nester tackles various topics and situations faced by new converts such as: How to Come out as a Catholic, How to Find a local Church, What it’s like for former Protestants to worship as Catholics, and much more. This book is a must have for new converts, and for anyone seeking to deepen their appreciation for their Catholic faith. The Convert’s Guide to Roman Catholicism- Your First year in the Church will help you not just survive your first year as a Catholic, but will help you thrive as you begin your new life in the most ancient Church.

Genres: Christian, Catholic, Nonfiction, Religion

231 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 14, 2019

Reviews

[Jennifer Maloney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I pretty much disagree with this entire book but it was still a fascinating read! 🤪 I’m definitely not the target audience (new adult convert to Catholicism). I’m a lifelong Protestant, in fact, and have zero intention of changing that, but my dad grew up Catholic, so I’ve always been fascinated by it. This book was a very easy and quick read and explained very clearly a lot of their beliefs and why they believe them. I definitely won’t be converting but I did find it very helpful to understand better what this church teaches! 🙏🏼

[Keith Little · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down. Whether you’re thinking about converting or are already a convert to Catholicism this book will resonate deeply! Keith writes with a passion, honesty, and humour that is not found elsewhere. Genuinely a wonderful and worthwhile read. Guarantee you will be recommending this to the converts or near-converts in your life!

[Ron Simeone]

This prayeful book is about a man in search of True Love. I could not stop reading it; my reread of War and Peace can wait! Keith is a passionate writer who writes from his heart and gives all of his love to Jesus and the Blessed Mother. I recommend this book to all; converts, those who are also seeking True Love of Christ and His Church and cradle Catholics as well.

Buy this book, tell your friends and it makes a great gift. Thank you, Keith, my brother

Ron Simeone
Washington DC

[David Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

What you need to know

I'm a new Catholic convert from a few different Protestant churches.I felt the same way about the churches O had been attending. I had misguided views about the Catholic church. Then one of the churches O was going to was trying to be more like the 1st century church. So I started reading the early church fathers and that got me thinking about learning more about Catholic church. So I started attending (RCIA) courses and my mind was opened to the full wisdom of the Catholic Church. It felt like coming home to the true church that Christ built.

[Smpaetz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great introduction!

Keith had some great insights about what to do and not do your first year as a Catholic. As an adult Protestant convert, he has good advice, especially for those in similar shoes. It can be a lonely and difficult road. Most Catholics have always been Catholic and can't relate. My only criticism would be his chapter on Marian doctrine. The information was great, but I think most people converting would already have worked through this topic before converting. Overall, it is a great help for adult converts.

[Audra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first heard of Keith Nester from his interview on Pints with Aquinas. His story and background felt similar to mine, and I felt much less alone in this journey.
This book was such a joy to read. It's funny, it's tender, and it's full of beauty and passion.
Becoming Catholic can feel like drinking out of a fire hose, but Nester approaches the process with grace and gentleness knowing he was right there too. This book grew my understanding and excitement to fully embrace the Lord's Church.

[Wesley Novak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Useful book

This is a great book for those making the choice to convert. The author touches on some of the remaining issues I have with Catholic beliefs and also what Parrish life is like compared to most Protestant churches.

I’m tempted to deduct a star for the overuse of the word “awesome”. It is very clear he used to be a youth pastor.

[Arlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a recent convert from Protestantism, I found this book incredibly helpful. Mr Nester was a protestant pastor and he knows all the things we find puzzling about the church. He takes you step by step through liturgy, customs and the beauty of the Chatholic Church. A great resource for protestants entering the Church.

[Hope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keith does a wonderful job explaining everything in simple English, nothing fancy or hard to read. As a convert himself he knows what questions protostants have, as he himself has already hashed them out.
You don't have to wait for your first year to read this. If you are even slightly curious or just want a good book to read go ahead and start it! It definitely worth the read.

[Wesley Ellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent for Protestants entering the church.

It was a good book for what Protestants can expect entering the church inn their first year. Not so much for the non-religious who suddenly find themselves submitting to the authority of the church.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

Personally, it’s a 2 star. I didn’t enjoy it much, skimmed it mostly, and was bored out of my mind. But I found some good nuggets.
However, I am not its target audience. And I think for that person it’s a 4 star. Hence, 3 stars

[LIZ FROST · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am home

As a new Christian, my search for a church started with Anglican, then Baptist now the Holy Spirit has led me home to the Catholic Church. As a new convert this journey can be daunting, Keith’s book allowed me to look at the church with fresh eyes.

[Sarah Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good reading for anyone whether they are Protestant or Catholic.

No matter where you are in your faith...it is worth the time it takes to read this to help you check your motives on your decisions especially spiritual ones. Know not only what you believe but why you believe.

[Jody McCluggage · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book to be very informative.

[Karen Bettencourt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good

I am in the middle of the call to convert. This book offered me really good insight into the Catholic church.

[Tony · Rating 5 out of 5]

I admire him for his courage, conviction, and enthusiasm. Solid book.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Aaron Babcock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Accessible. Practical. Relevant.

In his approachable and yet sincere style, Nester delivers a unique and yet indispensable guide for anyone exploring the prospect of Catholicism.

[Josue Tiguila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book. Helpful for those transitioning into the Church

[John Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Guide Book

I have recently become a member of the Catholic church, '24. This book has been very helpful indeed.
Thank you.

[Jan McMillion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just what I needed!

The true perspective of a Protestant becoming Catholic. How he felt, his ups and downs. The true Church wins in the end.

[Riley Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful resource for those who are wanting to convert, read this as a cradle Catholic.

[Deborah Halnon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keith Nestor is the newest to become Catholic

Keith is the latest person I have watched on U Tube. He is a new Catholic, he has written a new book. Not an Apologetics book, but a new Catholic book.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!! This was exactly what I had been looking for when I came to my RCIA class and said “I want to know the difference between Protestant and Catholicism.” The book didn’t do a full deep dive on the Reformation but it did give me a breakdown of what every Mass looks like, why things are done the way they are at the Church, and everything I may expect in the coming months as a converting Catholic. Huge thank you to Keith!!!