Book Description
A completely new typeset and designed edition of the popular Ignatius Revised Standard Version Bible, with minor revisions to some of the archaic language used in the first edition. This revised version is a contemporary English translation without dumbing-down the text. This second edition of the RSV doesn't put the biblical text through a filter to make it acceptable to current tastes and prejudices, and it retains the beauty of the RSV language that has made it such a joy to read and reflect on the Word of God. Now the only Catholic Bible in standard English is even more beautiful in word and design! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (29)

An overpriced paper weight
In general, this is a beautifully-bound and -presented Bible.However, it is just not worth the money.

The translation is the typically reliable (though, not always) RSV with all of its strengths and (yes) flaws.

As with most, if not all, translations coming from the Protestant tradition, there is a concerted effort to give the reader almost no extra helps in reading Sacred Scripture other than chapter divisions.The RSV does let you know where the English differs from the Hebrew, or when there's a variant in a Syriac version . . . but, that's about it.You're on your own if you want any sort of cross-reference system on the page, indicating when a passage might be quoting from or connected to another scripture somewhere else in the Bible.

Now, . . . I don't have the memory of a Baptist minister at a revival meeting.When it comes to chapter and verse -- unless it's a biblical book or topic with which I am relatively familiar -- I often rely on those topic headings and cross-references to prod my memory.It can be maddening to recall a scripture clearly -- to sometimes even remember the book or letter it's in -- and, yet, be unable to find it without hauling out Strong's concordance.Only Catholic translations (NAB, NJB) seem to have figured out the value of such "helps" for the avid Bible student.Not the RSV: I guess, they figure that we should all be Billy Graham.

The RSVCE-SE tries in a halfhearted, pitiful way to compensate for the lack of cross references.The result, however, is spotty: The New Testament is replete with scriptural cross references on almost every page.Though not quite as good as those found in the NAB, hey, at least they're there!The Old Testament, however, seems to have been an afterthought: There are few, if any, cross references.

What is more, the attempt at providing introductions and footnotes to each book is haphazard and sloppy.Some Old Testament books have a (very) brief introduction which describes the reputed author, dating, and relevant information.Some don't.The New Testament is mostly devoid of any introductions or footnotes.

It's almost as if the RSVCE-SE came off the presses half-finished.The work clearly meeded more cross-references, footnotes, introductions, section headings, etc.What you get instead is an overpriced paper weight: a souvenir that will sit on a bookshelf, with no perceivable benefit.

Last, but not least, it is a surprisingly HEAVY Bible.

Not happy.
I purchased this and had to send it back. I recieved the First Edition hard cover. I was not impressed. Generally however, the text in this book is good however it does not use the different formatting which is common in other bibles (i.e. showing the difference between hyns and poems and regular prose).

beautiful edition of a standard text for Catholics
This edition of the RSV is recommended for Catholics.A good modern translation, founded on good scholarship, with all the books included (that protestants call the Apocrypha.)

This is a particularly handsome edition, with a beautiful embossed cover. I purchased it for my oldest son, who's considering attending seminary, and he's very pleased with it.

The most beautiful bible I have
The only one complain is that I thought it was a leather on a hard cover, but it's in fact a soft cover leather.

A Good Bible
The hard cover is strong and durable.The cover with the icons is abeautiful artwork.The pages are thicker than the typical wafer-thin Bible pages, and this is excellent for highlighting, underlining, and writing in the margins.The notes are all on the same page as the words they apply to, so there is no flipping back and forth.There are no commentaries by Bible scholars, which is fine because I'm buying it for the Bible, not for the commentaries.This Bible is slightly bigger than a lot of Bibles, which is OK.I recommend this Bible.I like that Psalm 23 has me going through the "Valley of the Shadow of Death" instead of a "dark valley", and has me living in the House of the Lord "forever" instead of "for years to come" or "all the days of my life" (I expect to live there after I die, too). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

What we pray is what we believe
In following the Religious Studies motto of "lex orandi lex credendi" (basically: what we pray is what we believe), this is an excellent resource for studying the Catholic Faith in its official form. Part 1 covers the Rites of the Sacraments except for Matrimony and Holy Orders. Before each Rite, there's a sort of introduction and some form of letter from the Vatican that "authorizes" each Rite, something important for Catholics who believe that communion (or atleast faithfulness) to the Pope is essential. If you're the type that likes to go into the raw sources, this book is for you. If you want a book that summarizes and gives you systematic theology, you might want to consider the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, or Catholicism (by McBrien) that already does all the dirty work. God bless in your studies!

very satisfied
I am very satisfied with the book, the promptness, and the experience. Thank you very much.

The Roman Ritual
This book is part of the expanded Roman Ritual and Roman Pontifical presented to the American Church. While I dont agree with many of the changes made by Vatican II, I will say that this book is a good resource for complete rites as used in the american church. I especially enjoyed the many different versions of the litany of the Saints presented herein as well as the blessing of pontifical insignia.

Excelent for your Library
This book is intended for catholic clergy but it is invalueable for those who follow the african and catholic syncratic faiths like voodoo and hoodoo. If you want to know about catholic rites to bless oils, water, scapulars, and so on then buy this and the second volume, you wont be dissapointed. ... Read more

Book Description
Based on the Revised Standard Version - Catholic Edition, this sixth volume in this series leads readers through a penetrating study of the Letter to the Romans using the biblical text and the Church's own guidelines for understanding the Bible. Ample notes accompany each page, providing fresh insights and commentary by renowned Bible teachers Scott Hahn and Curtis Mitch, and time-tested interpretations from the Fathers of the Church.

The Ignatius Study Bible also includes Topical Essays, Word Studies and Charts. Each page also includes an easy-to-use Cross-Reference Section. Study Questions are provided for each chapter of Romans that can deepen your personal study of God's Holy Word. There is also an introductory essay covering questions of authorship, date, destination, structure and themes. An outline of the Letter to the Romans and several maps are also included. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Fabulous individual or small group study!
Our women's group was looking for a Catholic Bible study that did a good job of incorporating history, theology, and personal application all in one! This fabulous study has that and more! We are devouring it and savoring it. The footnotes are incredibly helpful in helping us put meaning to Paul's words, and the discussion questions do the job of reiterating Paul's meanings and giving our group a fabulous place to start our discussions. As the leader, I never have to stimulate discussion. In fact, thus far, we have always run long and had to cut people off to stop. There is so much valuable "meat" in this book, and it portrays Paul, the Catholic faith, and all of Scripture with reverence, accuracy, relevancy, and orthodoxy. I haven't found anything else that comes close to the depth and breadth of this study.

Print too small
The Ignatius Bible studies are great resources. The print, however, is unacceptably small. If you have even minor eye issues, you need magnification to use these study guides. This is a real drawback to an excellent series of commentaries.

Wonderful Personal or Small Group Study
Another great effort that makes the book of Romans come alive.The special helps reflect the historical and patristic positions on Scripture."Pop theology" is thankfully missing from this amazing study.

An OK study guide
My main issue with this study guide is the way in which the commentary and notes are formatted on the page.They are squeezed in with tiny print at the bottom of the page like regular footnotes in an academic journal and they are broken down by the verse to which they refer.So there really is no flow to the notes, they're just choppy, jumping from one subject to another.

I think a more effective means of explaining the contents of Paul's letter would be to have the text of the letter on one page and have the notes on the facing page.And have the notes in a flowing paragraph style rather than the choppy verse-by-verse format that are in this book.

I could get similar styled notes in the New American Bible that I already own. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Smolarski's GIRM 1969-2002 Commentary
Dennis Smolarski, S.J. has written an excellent book: "The General Instruction of the Roman Missal 1969-2002: A Commentary."

Particularly impressive is the way he looks at the history of the Roman Missal. He describes the changes that have been made, particularly between 2000 and 2002.

He is prepared to look at flaws in the Roman Missal, but putting them in perspective. On page 3 he wrote:

"Because documents, even ecclesiastical documents, are created by fallible and sinful human beings, they will always be less than ideal and will usually have come about as a result of a compromise between vision and inertia."

I think he challenges the Vatican to improve its clarifications on liturgical questions. For example on page 33:

"The 2002 GIRM states that it is desirable to celebrate Mass facing the people whenever possible (no. 299).

Footnote 4: The seemingly absolute statement of the 2002 GIRM was clarified by an interpretation issued by the Congregation of Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments on 25 September 2000. This clarification states that, although facing the people is desirable, the phrase "whenever possible (ubicumque possible sit)"means that celebrating Mass facing the apse is "not excluded.""

Those implementing the changes for the Catholic Mass will find his summary in the appendix of Major Rubrical Changes very helpful.

But I think there are shortcomings with regard to his philosophy of implementation.

He noted that a change has been made that "the section on posture now says that the assembly stands before they give their response to the Pray, brethren." (page 36)

But in a footnote to this he wrote:

"But it is usually difficultfor any large group to begin reciting a common text after changing posture without someone to lead them. Thus, in practice, in some places it may happen that the priest may gesture to the assembly to stand before he begins the invitation to prayer (so they can begin their response immediately without a change in posture) or the assembly may continue the current practice of changing posture only after they have finished their response."

It seems to me that here he is giving his blessing to ignoring the change. In practice, in some places, many things happen that should not. Doing the correct thing can be difficult. Adam ate the forbidden fruit. People lie, murder and steal. But this should be opposed, not encouraged.

The last chapter, Final Reflections, begins:

"One reaction to the third edition of the Roman Missal and the revised 2002 GIRM is to change established practices quickly based on a private interpretation of liturgical norms or on personal piety and without the guidance from those more knowledgeable or those in authority. Such an approach is fraught with danger." (p. 65)

But I think there is a greater danger that the established practices will not be changed. Ideally those with knowledge and authority should have provided guidance for the changes. But where they did not there is an individual requirement to make private interpretations.

Another shortcoming acknowledged at the front of the book is that when it was released to the printer in March 2003 there was not yet an officially approved English translation of the 2002 GIRM. Now that there is one those using this commentary would do well to refer to it, since the quotations used are sometimes different.

Generally I think instituted ministers are neglected, if not opposed. That the instituted lector's role should be respected is not emphasised, despite the added emphasis of the 2002 GIRM:

101. In the absence of an instituted lector, other laypersons may be commissioned to proclaim the readings from Sacred Scripture.

The 2002 GIRM emphasised the instituted acolyte's role in purifying the vessels (eg. n. 191- 192). It did not refer to other extraordinary communion ministers doing this. The U.S. bishop asked for a dispensation which was granted on 22 March 2002:

"... for grave pastoral reasons, the faculty may be given by the diocesan Bishop to the priest celebrant to use the assistance, when necessary, even of extraordinary ministers in the cleansing of sacred vessels after the distribution of Communion has been completed in the celebration of Mass. This faculty is conceded for a period of three years as a dispensation from the norm of the Institutio Generalis, edito typica tertia of the Roman Missal. ..."

But Dennis Smolarski does not mention that it expires on 22 March 2005 or that it requires the approval of the diocesan bishop.He argues that the indult was unnecessary on pages 51 and 66.

Despite these shortcomings I think it is an excellent book, providing an affordable 76 page summary of complex material. I see the primary audience is Catholics with particular roles in the Mass, particularly the clergy and seminarians. But it also could be used in a broader way. It is by a professor of mathematics and computer science. It is about communication in a range of languages and there is plenty of history in the text. It could also be viewed from a philosophical, ethical and sociological perspective. ... Read more

Book Description
This digital document is an article from The Humanist, published by American Humanist Association on March 1, 2005. The length of the article is 3097 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: The Roman Catholic hierarchy: putting the squeeze on politicians; the Catholic Church is pursuing a new policy of aggressive interference in lawmaking and elections.(Cover Story)
Author: Robert Grant
Publication: The Humanist (Refereed)
Date: March 1, 2005
Publisher: American Humanist Association
Volume: 65Issue: 2Page: 18(5)

Article Type: Cover Story

Distributed by Thomson Gale ... Read more

Product Description
In the early 1980s, Angelus Press printed its first Latin-English Missal booklet. Others have come and gone since then, but we believe that our new edition is the best available. From the durable cover to the two-color printing (rubrics in red), this missalette is a gem. The complete Mass is in Latin and English. Features include: Short Instruction on the Holy Mass; Ordinary of the Mass for High and Low Masses; the Propers of Trinity Sunday; 22 original illustrations to help newcomers follow the Mass; directions for kneeling, sitting, and standing; copious commentary in the margins on the Mass itself taken from St. Thomas Aquinas and the writings of Frs. de Chivré, Gihr, and Beaubien; the after-Mass Leonine Prayers, Prayer for the Sovereign of England, Thanksgiving Prayer of St. Thomas Aquinas, Anima Christi, indulgenced Prayer Before a Crucifix, and the Prayer for All Things Necessary to Salvation. Also includes the Rite of Exposition and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. 64pp, 5½" x 8½", durable softcover. ... Read more

Book Description
Catholic for a Reason III explains the Sacrifice of the Mass in light of Scripture and Church teaching—a timely topic, since October 2004 begins a special Year of the Eucharist, declared by Pope John Paul II. Popular Catholic authors, including Scott and Kimberly Hahn, Jeff Cavins, and Tim Gray lend unique insight into topics like the "The Mass and the Synoptic Gospels, "The Eucharist in the Apostolic Church," and "The Mass and Evangelization." ... Read more

Product Description
Written by a former Catholic, this book quotes 37 main Catholic doctrines from the 1994 Catechism of the Catholic Church, then compares each one with the King James Bible. Every time, Catholic doctrine contradicts the Word of God.

As a reference tool, this book will help you quickly find any Catholic doctrine, and Scriptures that refute it. It clearly shows that the Catholic religion forsakes the Bible to follow traditions of the Catholic Church. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (33)

A very worthwhile read...
After being a catholic for more than 40 years, my brother (a former catholic) had tried to get me to read the Bible more and rely less on the teachings of the church. This was difficult for me, because I was in a leadership position in our parish. I was a lector and an educator in the church's RCIA program, an adult education program for those wishing to convert to catholicism.

My brother bought me this book, but I put it aside and didn't bother reading it. I thought it was propaganda that twisted the catechism for the purposes of bashing catholicism.

Well, despite being a life-long catholic and despite being someone who actually was charged with teaching the catechism, I began to read the Bible and listen to a very educated Bible teacher. Many of the messages the teacher was giving me ran directly contrary to the teachings of the catholic church -- teachings I had, myself, been giving to others.

In time, through my own self-education within the Bible itself, with research into scripture, with the help of learned Bible teachers and students as well, I finally came to the conclusion that the catholic church had strayed away from the truth of the Word. While the church may have, at one time, been true to Word, it clearly no longer is.

The church taught me that my salvation was based on how I behaved, that I could be doomed to hell for my sins if I didn't seek absolution, and that is simply not the case.

It was only after I learned the truth that I turned to this book. In that context, I highly recommend this book, even though there are certain parts that may bear further investigation on the part of the reader.

My advice, particularly to those who are questioning the catholic church, is to read this book but don't take it completely on it's own. Instead, get yourself an Old Scofield Study Bible, read this book and research the material presented--then come to your own conclusions.

The bottom line is that you can develop a completely personal relationship with God, that you don't need any organized religion to filter or otherwise mold that relationship, and salvation is a free, permanent gift that requires no church affiliation to obtain. It is yours for the asking.

And remember: this is an honest review from a former life-long catholic who, after more than forty years and having been a lector and educator, found the truth in the Word. My relationship with the Lord has never been stronger, my life of worship never fuller, my happiness never greater.

Good luck!

The very best book ever exposing false Catholic teaching
This book is so good I don't know where to start. It exposes all the false teachings of Roman Catholicism simply by presenting scripture alone.The book even cites the Roman Catholic Catechism to show precisely what the RCC really believes on each topic, so there is no mistake in quoting their actual beliefs. This a great witnessesing tool, where you can easily turn to a particular section and find what you need in minutes.It gets right to the point.

terrible, a blatant lie
I was a convert from Roman Catholicism to a bible based, born again church.I fell for the lies about my faith for about two years.I decided to study the Catholic faith so that I could be a good witness to these folks.Reading this book along side the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the bible has converted me back to the Roman Catholic Church.I will not live a lie.The truth is not a somewhat or a something, but a person.And that person is Jesus Christ and His body is the Catholic Church.
2 Corinthians 11:13-15 says: For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is not strange if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.
Outside of the Catholic Church this is what your dealing with.

Catholicism contradicts the Word of God, Jesus Christ....
Exposes MANY of the false doctrines of Catholicism. Jesus warned us in Matthew 15:9 - "BUT IN VAIN DO THEY WORSHIP ME, TEACHING FOR DOCTRINES THE COMMANDMENTS OF MEN." If your worship is IN VAIN, are you going to heaven or hell on Judgment Day??? The pope won't be your judge! What happens to ALL LIARS on that day (Revelation 21:8)??? Hebrews 5:9 declares Christ became the author of eternal salvation "UNTO ALL THEM THAT OBEY HIM". Does the Catholic church OBEY HIM BY DELETING HIS 2ND COMMANDMENT - EXODUS 20:4-5 - NO GRAVEN IMAGES??? If you TAKE AWAY FROM HIS HOLY WORD, your name will be TAKEN OUT OF THE LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE (Revelation 22:19). Pray to the Father in Jesus' name for wisdom and understanding, and study Revelation 17 & 18....

JUNK AND TRASH, HATRED.
This book is absolutely horrible scholarship. Get real.
If you want a TRUE source of true and solid teaching....go
to the teachings of the Church and not some horrible and trash,wasted writing that is present in this anti-Catholic book.
I'd recommend "Rome Sweet Home" by Dr. Scott Hahn."Upon this Rock" by Peter Kreeft.If you want solid books these two I'd recommend.

Not this book. This book is false and it lies. Spreading filth and hatred.
Disgusting.Sickening. ... Read more

Book Description
A Pastoral Series that offers an in-depth yet accessibleunderstanding of the fundamentals of the Catholic faith for adults, boththose active in pastoral ministry and those preparing for ministry. Theseries helps readers explore the Catholic tradition and apply what theyhave learned to their lives and ministry situations. Includes studyquestions and suggestions for further reading. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A Pocket Guide to Catholic Apologetics
Alot of scriputre references but little in the way of theology.Good research material though.

Just the Nuts and Bolts
This book is small enought that it'll fit into your Bible or your back pocket. The next time someone knocks on your door, or asks you a question about the Catholic faith and the Bible you'll find this book will direct you in the right direction to give them a quick answer.
A great companion to "Where is That in the Bible?" also by Patrick Madrid. ... Read more

Amazon.com
Catechism of the Catholic Church is the first new edition of the catechism in 400 years. Catechism means "instruction," and this text will remain the standard reference for Catholics for many future generations. It is the authoritative summary of Catholic belief regarding the Church creeds, sacraments, commandments, and prayers. To get some idea of the level of detail with which the Catechism engages Catholic doctrine, consider that 17 pages of explanation accompany the opening words of the Apostle's Creed ("I Believe in God the Father"). The book is exceptionally well organized, with line-by-line explanations of every conceivable aspect of orthodox Catholic belief. Extensive cross-referencing, indexing, footnotes, and "In Brief" summaries of each section further ease the project of finding the precise answers to any questions a reader might have. Even the layout of information on the page is easy on the eyes, with wide margins for readers who wish to make notes. Furthermore, the back cover features a true rarity in the annals of world literature: a blurb by the Pope. --Michael Joseph GrossBook Description
Four centuries in the making, a monumental undertaking and a magnificent achievement, the first definitive Catholic Catechism since the Council of Trent in 1566 details the doctrine, dogma, and the basic tenets of the Church. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (136)

All the Answers
As a very minimum, this book should be in every Catholic home, next to the Holy Bible. No more questions concerning the Catholic Faith, it's foundation and beliefs. Excellent teaching tool, and great reference for non-Catholics interested in researching Catholic beliefs, and the Church's foundation.

Great insite to the Catholic Faith
This book give you information on the practices of the catholic church and where the ideas come from.While it does not address the laws and rules, it does give the solid backboane to the faith.It has biblical referance, historical notes and reference to other document which will be helpful to the reader.

Catechism too wordy
I found this book too wordy. It is more a trade book than one for a lay person who wants quick explanations.

Excellent Presentation of the Catholic Faith
I was baptised Catholic but not raised in the faith, or any other. I bought this book to learn about what it meant to be Catholic and what these believers stood for, as an institution.

It's an extremely well-written book, for one. It has an amazingly intricate structure, divided between parts, sections, chapters, articles, etc., and every paragraph is numbered, which makes it really easy to refer to. The table of contents is extensive and so you can find whatever topic you want in a relatively short time.

Most of the time I found this book to be both concise and clear. Every time something is referred to or quoted, you get a note that tells you where this is from. There's an extensive glossary at the end of the book which is mighty useful for people who aren't used to the jargon and other theological concepts, as well as all things Catholic and Christian.

The CCC is quite a big book, nearing the 1000 pages,but I figure its main usage isn't in a cover to cover reading like I did, but more like a guide to refer to about any given topic one may have. Despite the length, I never got bored, even though the point of the CCC isn't about thrilling its reader, it was still well written enough to sustain my attention from page 1 to the end.

The paper quality is absolutely awesome and the printing of the letters is faultless. The hardcover is a model of texture and all in all, it's a classy book on all aspects.

Definitely a standard book for anyone's knowledge of the Catholic faith.

Catechism of the Catholic Church
This book answered all of my questions when I converted to Catholicism two years ago.Every Catholic should read this.It's well-written, understandable, and enjoyable. ... Read more

Book Description
Since its publication in 1990, the Catholic Study Bible has been widely accepted for use by advanced students that have benefited from its wealth of background information on the historical, literary, and theological dimensions of the Bible.Now this landmark resource for Catholics has been significantly upgraded. The study notes have been completely rewritten, there are new and expanded essays (including ones treating Catholic traditions of biblical interpretation) and sidebars on special topics in the study materials and biblical text.The heart of the CSB's ancillary materials is an extensive Reading Guide that leads the reader through the Scriptures, book-by-book. Helpful marginal references in the biblical text point to specific pages in the Reading Guide, easing the retrieval of important background information. Also included are the complete lectionary readings (for Sundays, major holy days, and weekdays), 32 pages of authoritative full color New Oxford Bible Maps (with index), and a 72-page, New American Bible Concordance.The Catholic Study Bible, Second Edition remains the unexcelled resource for use in parish and higher education settings. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (46)

Catholic Study Bible
The best adult Bible for anyone that is not familiar with Scripture. I give a copy to everyone in my Catholics Returing Home Series

Better Scholarship and Linguistics are Needed
The NAB and the Catholic Study Bible appear to be a competitive attempt at more thorough Study Bibles decades in the making, (Scofield, Ryrie, NIV Study Bible, etc.).Although the attempt is genuine, the content is lacking both linguistically and in historical scholarship.The translation itself is lacking and shows only a basic understanding of the Hebrew/Aramaic sources.Also, an an odd isogetic bent is found throughout the NT in translating the Koine sources.The commentary is cold, overly literary, and lacks the true warmth and personal nature of the Holy Scriptures as they are found in the original sources, (Hebrew/Aramaic, Greek, and possibly Syriac).My hope is that a revision of this text will reveal a true desire to communicate the Sciptures accurately.Unfortunately, as a scholar of the Scriptures I cannot recommend this volume.

There are better ways to study the Bible
The New American Bible is a good translation, a very good translation indeed. It is the translation that is used by the Catholic Church in America for the liturgy. And this Catholic Study Bible contains that translation.

However... and this is a large however...!

This study version of the Bible approaches the Bible almost from the viewpoint that the Bible is not what it is believed to be, both the inspired wisdom and accounts of the events of the Old and New Testaments. This is the historical critical method at work in its worst form. It's editors would nearly have you believe that if there is not concrete historical evidence supporting what the Bible says, than the truth must be something other than what the Bible says it is. In short, this is more of an investigation of the Bible where there is the presumption of invalidity unless proven otherwise.

A study bible should explain why the Bible is true, and why it is that what the Bible teaches is true. It might also show how and where the Bible reveals its truths and validity in the very text of the Bible itself. This "study bible" does neither of these things. Instead, this book is more of a cross examination of literature in its treatment of the Bible.

The Bible is a traditional historical account, written down precisely because the words were either inspired such as in the Old Testament's wisdom books, or the writers were witnesses to certain events and lived in those times, such as in the Gospels and New Testament.

That is not how this book approaches the Bible!

If you are looking for a study of the Bible that would deepen your faith and knowledge, this is not the study Bible for you. This book also nearly completely dismisses or ignores the teachings of the Catholic in favor of a "literary" view of the Bible.

This book does not study the Bible, it very suspiciously investigates the Bible.

Good Resource for Catholic Bible Study
For any of us to pick up the Bible and think that we will understand it on our own is both folly and arrogance. The Bible was written in languages (Hebrew and Greek) foreign to most of us, in a location thousands of miles from us folks in the U.S., and thousands of years ago. The Catholic Study Bible provides readers with reliable assistance in unpacking the meaning of God's Word and provides Catholics with outstanding Bible scholarship by Catholic scholars who, like Fr. Donald Senior, are among the best in the world. This is an excellent resource for Catholics who are learning about the Bible on their own or are involved in Bible Study.

Joe Paprocki "Catechist's Journey"
God's Library: A Catholic Introduction to the World's Greatest Book
The Catechist's Toolbox: How to Thrive As a Religion Education Teacher
Living The Mass: How One Hour A Week Can Change Your Life

Great Bible. Narrow and uninspiring commentaries and helps
Believe it or not, this is the bible I use in my everyday life. My copy is underlined, crossed over, and written in. I have lived with the NAB Catholic Study Bible for a long time.

However, I would never recommend that a fellow Catholic do the same. The NAB is great in that it has excellent cross references that really help with comparative scripture study. It is a good and scholarly translation. This edition has a handy mini-concordance in the back as well, which is a huge help.

However, the "scholarship" in this bible's "Readers Guides" is abysmal, biased, and downright schismatic.

First, allow me to address what strengths the various study guides have.

1) Modern historical/critical scholarship in the Roman Catholic "tradition" (I use this word VERY loosely) is presented.

2) The bible is well organized and easily used. The "readers guides" are at the beginning and share the modern historical/critical perspective on the texts.

3) The "readers guides" cover the entire bible, including the apocrypha.

These are the only three strengths I can think of however, and even garnering these was a stretch. This Study Bible's weaknesses are myriad and fatal. A few of the most egregious problems follow:

1) The essays focuses solely on the insights of the historical critical method, and are egregiously liberal and politically correct to the point of being distracting. The scholarship is definitely a notch or two below the New Jerome Biblical Commentary, which is also very modern and biased. I should point out that the historical critical method can and does provide valuable insights. However, it can be problematic in that it takes skepticism as its starting point. Its conclusions therefore can be biased against faith. One example is the dating of texts that include prophesy. The historical critical scholar will postdate the text to after the prophesy had been fulfilled. The assumption is against the idea that a prophet from God could have warned about the future BEFORE the event occurred.

These sorts of biased statements against faith happen ALL OVER this Bible.

2) Historical critical method, by definition, can only address the literal sense of scripture. (Who wrote the text, when was it written, what is the author's agenda, what does he or she want tell us etc. etc.) In Catholic teaching however there are four senses of Sacred Scripture, the texts of which are Holy, inerrant, and inspired by the Holy Spirit. These four senses are: a) the Literal b) the Allegorical c) the Anagogical and d) the Moral. The study helps in this bible, by their very nature, ignore most of the Catholic view of the scriptures because they can really only address one sense of scripture effectively. This bible addresses none of these truths.

Read the totality of the "study helps" in this bible and you will find no reasons for Catholic belief. None at all.For instance, according to this "Catholic" bible, the sin of Onan has nothing to do with coitus interuptus or contraception. When Paul wrote about examining oneself before receiving the Eucharist for example there is no mention of confession (in fact, the idea that this passage may refer to sacramental confession is refuted!!!). In fact, the Catholic view of the scriptures is contradicted more often than supported by this bible's "study helps."

3) The best current scholarship seems to have left the Catholic camp (sadly). NT Wright (an Anglican) is one example. His works on Paul and the historicity of the Resurrection for instance have totally eclipsed Ray Brown, Fitzmeyer, et all. This scholarship would be considered "conservative" by the compilers of this study bible and insights from evangelical and conservative protestant scholars are routinely dismissed by them as biased or unscientific. The opinions of more orthodox scholars don't even warrant a mention by the authors of these "Reader's Guides." This makes the study helps in this bible decidedly myopic in favor of a more liberal and modern view of the dating and authorship of the various NT texts. What is disgusting is that these liberal scholars are trying to pass themselves off as purveyors of Catholic truth. This is repugnant. At least present the Church's viewpoint before contradicting it!

4)Eastern Christian bible scholarship has a long and beautiful history in drawing out the spiritual meaning of biblical texts. This "Catholic" study Bible ignores the East altogether. This is not a joke. Not a single Eastern mystic, saint, or scholar is included in the study helps. It breathes with one lung only (the western one), and the VERY modern and liberal wing of western one at that. The Church offers a HUGE treasury of biblical theology that this "Study Bible" simply dismisses. This is outrageous, and again provides a very narrow view of the scriptures.

5) There are FAR better study Bibles available for the Christian. For instance, the Navarre Catholic Bible (while more expensive than this volume as it also contains lengthy commentaries and footnotes to the biblical texts and is published in many volumes) includes not only the insights of historical critical scholarship, but also the insights of the saints, mystics, and biblical theology. Furthermore, historical scholarship from more than the liberal wing of the academy is included. The Navarre Bible Commentary is far richer than the NAB Catholic Study Bible as result.

If the Navarre bible is too expensive for your blood, Ignatius is putting together a Catholic Study Bible that is solid. So far several inexpensive single books have been published, including Gospel of Matthew: Ignatius Study Bible (Ignatius Catholic Study Bible)

In short, I would avoid this "Catholic" bible until one has a deep and solid grounding in Scripture. The study helps are very liberal and skeptical. They ignore the riches of what the Church has to offer. This Bible is marketed as a Catholic commentary to the laity and this is a misnomer. ... Read more

Book Description
This lucid and accessible account explains how Roman Catholicism and its beliefs and practices came to be what they are. The authors move through history to sum up the present characteristics of Catholic Christianity and the major challenges it faces in the third millennium. Explaining matters
in a fresh and original way, they do justice to the Catholic heritage and show that Catholicism is a dynamic and living faith. Well-structured, highly informative, and clearly written, the book does not duck critical problems and the negative side of history. Rather, O'Collins and Farrugia explore
the challenges which Catholics and other Christians must face, and examine the need to confront contemporary moral issues. This is an authoritative, lively, and up-to-date introduction to Catholicism for the modern reader. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Ditch this
Good content, but what it lacks is readability.The information is haphazardly stream of consciousness.Also Girardian heresy begins to sneak in during the discussion of the nature of Christ's death.

An Excellent Introduction
I am very glad to have recently stumbled across this book while in a local bookstore.My initial peruse through the contents of the book impressed me as it seemed to be a very thorough account; the high remarks on the back of the book by Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury (the lead bishop of the Anglican Communion), and Philip Jenkins (history and religious studies @ Pennsylvania State University) were the stimuli that caused me to cross the threshold of inhibition and purchase it.

The book is written "from the inside", so to speak.That is, both authors are not only Roman Catholic, but also priests and theologians.Furthermore, both are Jesuits, that is, monks in the order of the Society of Jesus.Despite the widely held cultural belief that the Roman Catholic church is highly secretive if not downright dishonest, both O'Collins and Farrugia write openly: they note the various failures of the past.However, as they also note early on, the history of the Roman Catholic church is far more than one of failure: otherwise, the only thing that could account for its success would be the (manipulatory) work of the Holy Spirit.

The book has 11 chapters:

1: The First Thousand Years
2: The Second Thousand Years
3: Revelation, Tradition, and Scripture
4: The Tripersonal God and the Incarnate Son
5: The Human Condition
6: The Life of Grace and the Hope of Glory
7: The Sacraments
8: The Catholic Church and its Mission
9: Catholic Moral Life and Teaching
10: Basic Characteristics of Catholicism
11: Current Challenges

Hence, the book is far more than a simple history of the world's largest religion: it is an overview - at times, considerably detailed - of Catholic history, thought, and practice.As the last chapter's title indicates, the book also takes stock of the current state of things and looks toward the future.

Each chapter takes the historical development of ideas into account in the presentation of its theme and the authors note that there have been many changes over time, particularly with and since Vatican II, the most recent of the church's ecumenical councils.The authors show a good deal of sensitivity to both the Reformation (c. 1500 c.e.) and the Great Schism (1054 c.e.), which was when the church Catholic broke into eastern and western churches: the Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches, respectively.Although the authors show themselves to be sympathetic to the Anglican Communion and other Protestant groups - some of which are far more in continuity with the shared Catholic tradition than others - there is a special place given to the Orthodox church.

It is appreciated that this book does not take a "top-down" approach: the social life of the church, filled with saints (and sinners), philosophers and mystics is what really creates the history of the Roman Catholic church.The authors are particularly fond of Dante, interestingly enough, and quote him regularly.

The picture that they paint of the Papacy is one where the primacy of the pope emerged out of political need but also became more corrupt as time went on, culminating in the high middle ages and leading to the Protestant Reformation.The pope's power has been in decline since then, reaching its all time low when Napoleon conquered the Vatican.Since then, there has been a considerable amount of theological work done by various persons and councils so as to fully articulate the place of the pope in the life of the church, both preventing abuses of power but also keeping his position the prime position of leadership.O'Collins and Farrugia discuss the meaning of papal infallibility - developed in recent times - and its precedent in earlier trends and decisions.However, they note that papal infallibility does *not* mean everything a pope says is perfect or true.Rather, it means that *when* the pope claims to speak "ex cathedra" - "from the chair (of St. Peter)" - he is and will be correct.This has only happened *twice*, though.The pope is presented as a central figure in the Roman Catholic church - he is the central bishop - but not as more important than the larger, shared tradition of Roman Catholicism.

Particularly helpful at the end of the book is a list of titles for further reading, some of which I have bought and others which I am planning to buy.The detailed chapters are welcome to this reader; this book is no lightweight introduction.I think that cuts both ways, though, as the amount of detail - lovingly and painstakingly written about - may overwhelm some readers.Regardless, I think this book is still an excellent place to start learning about the Roman Catholic church. ... Read more

Book Description
Unlike Dan Brown's «The Da Vinci Code», David Ranan's well researched «Double Cross: The Code of the Catholic Church» is a fact based, across-the board analysis of the Catholic Church. His conclusions are not less startling. The book reflects on whether there is a systemic fault at the heart of the Church and considers the paradox between her message of love and her history of violence. Ranan's insightful analysis explains why the modern Church has such difficulty in reversing her teachings on such fundamental questions as birth control, abortions, the Jews, and other shibboleths. He explains why the Church has even today failed to give anything more than a half hearted apology for Galileo's `trial` and why she has for so long covered up sexual abuse by her priests. This compelling book will be of interest to anyone whose life is or was affected by the Church, as well as Catholics and non-Catholics who are interested in the power of religion and who wonder about the ability of the Church to change. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A "must-read" for anyone involved in or affected by the Catholic Church
Written by political scientist David Ranan, Double Cross: The Code of the Catholic Church is a severe indictment of the many flaws, moral lapses, and outright crimes of the Catholic Church, ranging from parish sexual abuse scandals to complicity in genocide. Covering the Church's perpetration of human misery from pre-medieval times to the Crusades to its tacit cooperation with the Holocaust and its ills of the modern Day, Double Cross examines how the Church has structured its power base, policed thought among its members, engendered corruption, fostered violence particularly against non-Catholics, espoused anti-Semitism, and perhaps worst of all among modern-day offenses, denounced nearly all forms of family planning as well as condom use, thereby causing overpopulation and assisting the spread of AIDS particularly in the poorest nations that can least afford either. Extensively researched with numerous notes to clarify details and an index, Double Cross is a "must-read" for anyone involved in or affected by the Catholic Church, both Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

revealingand appalling
I have just finished David Ranan's "Double Cross, the Code of the Catholic Church", an insightful analysis of the Church's history in which he unravels the whole Catholic power-play. It is quite outspoken, yet factual and not emotional. Ranan, who writes with biting eloquence, has produced a book, the pace of which is breathtaking, andwhich reads like a super-thriller.

I have personal knowledge of some of the damage caused by the Catholic Church to its own members and therefore consider that this book does a great public service.
The book should be read not only by those who will agree with the author, but importantly by Catholics.

Catholic priests and bishops! Read David Ranan to better understand your Church, even if - and really especially if - some of the facts will fill you with horror when they sink in.

full of insight and thrill
Excellent book.Ranan's exhaustive history and analysis of the inner workings and policy making of the Catholic Church is both insightful and a thrilling read. The amount of research and materials reviewed is stunning but the author escaped the danger of writing a dry story.Quite the opposite, once you have started, you will turn pages until you reach the end. If you liked the D'Avinci Code, you will love this book -- but end up smarter. ... Read more

Book Description
A perfect way for modern Catholics to address the issues of faith, this straightforward catechism provides precise answers to more than 1,700 questions about Church teachings, rituals, and religious practice. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Pastoral responses
It is a testament to Fr. Hardon's abilities as a teacher that his catechism is still in print over twenty-five years after it was first released.Largely a Q&A version of his monumental Catholic Catechism, this book presents 1701 succinct questions and answers about the Catholic faith.The distinguishing features of "The Question and Answer Catholic Catechism" are its orthodoxy (faithfulness to authoritative Catholic teaching), its excellent composition and readability, and, perhaps most importantly, the pastoral nature of its responses.By "pastoral," I mean that it poses questions that typically come up during conversations about the Catholic faith."How do we know there is a purgatory?" "Should children receive the sacrament of penance before first Communion?""What are some forms of self-denial to be practiced during Lent?""Has the Church forbidden that Mass be said in Latin?"Although this book predates the authoritative Catechism of the Catholic Church: Second Edition and the new Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, it is entirely consistent with them.In fact, I have found it to be of great benefit to supplement readings of the Compendium and Catechism with Fr. Hardon's pastoral guidance.

The Catholic Catechism in question and answer form.
This book is an excellent aid in using the Catholic Catechism. The book is in the same order as the Catholic Catechism and is done in a question and answer format. It provides specific answers to specific questions about theCatechism.

I use the book along with my Catechism when I have a questionor just need to clarify some things. The book has a nihil obstat andimprimatur that lets you know it is free from doctrinal error. ... Read more

Product Description
Detailed Description Brand New!!! Now you can learn to play the piano and listen to the music on an accompanying CD! Alan Jemison has provided an invaluable tool in learning to play the piano AND to sing these beautiful hymns!36 Traditional Roman Catholic Hymns: A Book for Singing with Accompanying CD RecordingsRecommended by Laura Berquist in Designing Your Own Classical Curriculum, "Even little children can learn the hymns that are sung at church, or the ones that ought to be." This book contains the musical notation for the vocal melody coupled with two verses of text to 36 hymns and chants drawn from the rich legacy of the Church. The hymns are written and sung in keys that are suitable for singing (which the piano versions are not). The melody is sung with piano on the accompanying CD, which may be used in several ways:As a model for learning to sing music As an accompaniment for singing music As music for listeningSoprano Carol Ireland's voice is so rich and melodious that the dignity of these treasured hymns will surely make its way into the hearts of your children.Author: Alan Jemison Number of Pages: 20 Paperback with CD Publisher: Alan Jemison Copyright © 2005 ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Excellent summary of Catholic teachings
The Catechism of the CC is essentially a summary of Catholic teachings on theology and faith.It is very well set out and contains abundant references to the Bible, to the Fathers, and to key Papal documents and Church Councils.

The Catechism is essential to have for practicing Catholics, those interested in Catholicism, as well as non-Catholics who wish to study this branch of Christianity.Also useful is the companion volume 'Commentary on the Catechism', which contains all the quotes in full.

Incredible!!!
Everything you need to know about the Catholic Church! What other religion has every teaching written down in one book? Can't beat it!

Excellent
This was (and still is!) and excellent resource tool when I took the RCIA class.I use it all the time when I have a question because it states the belief along with any coordinating resources at the bottom of the pages.I'm currently using it for my research paper!

The Magisterium in Concrete
Certainly, for those interested in knowing what the teachings of the Catholic Church under the magisterium of John Paul II are, this is an indispensable item. It does, however, raise the question of what happens to the Church when it seeks to take a specific doctrinal and moral stand by setting its teachings in concrete, so to speak. One need only consider the debate that still rages over the definition of the dogma of the Assumption and papal infallibility at the first Vatican Council! As a researcher's tool, I have found this book useful and thought provoking. As a Catholic, I find some of it disturbing.

A must-have for all who are seeking orthodoxy!
This book is essential for anyone who wants to know what the magisterial teachings are in regards to the Catholic faith.The in-depth writings will answer just about any question in regards to Catholic beliefs.Also, thereare plenty of references to Biblical scriptures and papal documents bywhich the teachings are supported.Anyone with intentions of being a goodCatholic or of researching the Catholic faith should get this book NOW! ... Read more