The Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church is an abbreviated version of the Catechism. Whereas the Catechism has a total of 904 pages, the Compendium has only 204 pages, and is composed in the traditional question and answer format. The Catechism of the Catholic Church is a fine resource for those who are determined to assiduously study the faith. But its full 688 pages of text (plus indexes) can be a bit imposing to those who are only inquiring about Catholic teaching, or who simply are not willing or able to devote the time and effort required in reading the entire tome. For such persons, whether adults or young people, the Compendium is the answer. Its pages are less densely covered with text, its question and answer format defines the teachings of the Church with conciseness and directness, while a generous number of sacred paintings throughout the book gives relief to the mind and pleasure to the heart. It is appropriate, then, even for use with children, and is an ideal manual for catechism class. Even more, perhaps, the Compendium is a fine resource for Catholics who are returning to the Church, for the millions of recovering middle-agers who, having left the Church during the chaotic seventies and eighties, are once again interested in the faith of their youth, in which they were never properly instructed. For all such persons, the Compendium provides a sort of gentle introduction to the fundamentals of Catholicism. The Compendium has a fine index, which is brief enough to be used as a detailed table of contents. This is useful for those who want to immediately find a topic. It also contains a beautiful collection of traditional Catholic prayers, in both Latin and English. This will encourage the memorization of the classic prayers and devotions of the Church, and a renewed appreciation for the dignity and gracefulness of Latin, which remains the official language of the Catholic Church. The Compendium provides an easy and attractive introduction to the Catholic faith. It is appropriate for all ages and abilities. As Pope Benedict XVI has written in the introduction, "This Compendium, with its brevity, clarity, and comprehensiveness, is directed to every human being, who, in a world of distractions and multifarious messages, desires to know the Way of Life, the Truth, entrusted by God to His Son's Church." Amen!Read full review
Anyone seeking basic information about Catholic doctrine should have a copy. Anyone desiring to help others or to deepen their own understanding should keep one for handy reference. These also make a great gift for new converts to the faith.
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This is an excellent edition to your catechism that will break everything down making it easily understandable. Get one!
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Very clear and easy to use companion to the Catechism. Helps explain various points.
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It's the perfect book to add to any Traditional Catholic Chatichism.
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