The Catechism Explained: An Exhaustive Explanation of the Catholic Faith
By Fr. Francis Spirago · Edited by Fr. Richard Clarke, S.J. · Published by TAN Books
Overview
If you are looking for a single volume that can explain the "why" behind every "what" of the Catholic Faith, The Catechism Explained is the definitive manual. Originally written by Fr. Francis Spirago and edited by Fr. Richard Clarke, S.J., this classic work offers a thorough, line-by-line exposition of Catholic teaching in clear, accessible language. While many theological texts require an advanced degree to navigate, Spirago’s masterpiece was designed to make complex doctrine plain for lay readers, parents, and catechists. Drawing from the deep wells of Scripture, the Church Fathers, and the Doctors of the Church, this book serves as an indispensable reference for anyone who needs to teach, preach, or defend the Faith with precision and heart.
Comprehensive Instruction in Three Parts:
- Faith: An exploration of the Apostles' Creed and the nature of God.
- Morals: A detailed guide to the Commandments, virtue, and Christian perfection.
- Means of Grace: A thorough study of the Sacraments, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and Prayer.
- Exhaustive yet Accessible: Covers core doctrine, morality, and Church life in plain language without sacrificing theological depth.
- Rooted in Tradition: Grounded in thousands of quotes from Scripture and the Fathers of the Church, providing a solid foundation for every explanation.
- Perfect for Teaching: A premier resource for homily preparation, RCIA, classroom catechesis, and family faith formation.
- Modernized for Today: Updated with current biblical names and book titles, plus footnotes cross-referencing the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC).
- Practical Application: Goes beyond abstract theory to show how Catholic teaching applies to daily moral choices and the life of prayer.
Intended Audience
This manual is a "must-have" for adult Catholics seeking a deeper understanding of their faith, as well as for clergy, catechists, and homeschooling parents. It is particularly valuable for those who need a clear, authoritative way to explain Church teachings to children, converts, or skeptics.
FAQs
How does this differ from the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC)?
While the CCC is the official magisterial text, Spirago’s work is an explanation of those truths. It provides the "meat"—analogies, stories, and patristic quotes—that helps the reader truly digest and understand the dogmas.
Is this book good for converts?
Yes. It is one of the best tools for RCIA candidates because it answers the "how" and "why" of Catholic practice in a way that is easy to follow but intellectually satisfying.
Is this the updated TAN edition?
Yes. This edition has been carefully edited for modern readability, including updated terminology and helpful footnotes for contemporary cross-referencing.
Key Themes
- Doctrinal Clarity: Eliminating confusion about what the Church actually teaches.
- Moral Integrity: Understanding the Commandments as a path to true freedom.
- Sacramental Life: Deepening one's participation in the Mass and the Sacraments through knowledge.
- SKU:
- 3047
- Imprint:
- TAN Books
- Publication Date:
- 01/17/2023
- Format:
- Hardcover
- Pages:
- 1040
- Edited:
- Fr. Richard F. Clarke, SJ
- Pdf:
- https://tanbooks.com/content/3047_Preview.pdf
- Height:
- 9.00
- Width:
- 6.00
18 Reviews Hide Reviews Show Reviews
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Great book
This book tells you everything about the catholic religion And it is in language that is easy to understand Will have it forever!!!
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The Catechism Explained
Great book, readable and great deal from TAN! They always have wonderful, affordable books that are enlightening and truly catholic christian.
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The Catechism Explained
THIS, Explained Catechism is simply profound and the best understanding of the Catholic Catechism still today! Thanks be to GOD!
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Catachism
A timeless catachism especially for this generation who knows next to nothing about our faith
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Absolutely a requirement for Catholics!
This is a superb resource for Catholics. Mother Miriam also speaks highly of this compilation.
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Best Catechism ever
Easy read
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Great teachings
Great teachings, easy to understand, brings us closer to the church.
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The Catechism Explained
I first read Rev. Spirago's The Catechism Explained in its original version 2-3 years ago. Very clear and full explanations provided me with the most complete understanding of the Catechism that I have ever read. Unfortunately, the original version having gone through numerous reprints, had many pages where some words and sentences were difficult or impossible to read. I haven't yet started the new edited version of Rev. Spirago's Catechism Explained. If the new version is an improved reprint of the original version, I will consider that a masterpiece work has been refurbished.
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Beautifully reproduced— one that will be readily accessed when a question about the faith arises!
The quality of your old treasures is much appreciated— can be passed down to future generations!
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Wonderful Edition
NA
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Should be a Standard
Truly every Catholic should own this book. Beautiful clothbound hardcover, sewn binding, 2 ribbon markers and a wealth of catechesis. This is a book I know I'll continuously turn to and treasure!
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Spirago's Catechism
Book is a classic of Catholic literature. Highly recommended by such luminaries as Fr. Chad Ripperger, on whose recommendation, I made this purchase. The 1921 edition has been edited so as to refer to the pertinent passages in the Catechism of 1992. The edition is clean and crisp, sturdy and well-made. It will last in libraries for decades. Highly recommended.
