As a revert to the Catholic faith, it took me a lot of research to understand my religion. It was a long process for me being raised with little knowledge about Catholicism. I had a lot of questions. From apologetics to Catholic living, I was thirsty for truth. That’s why I tried to feed my inquisitiveness by reading books for Catholic converts and reverts! It was not easy but it was all worth it. Whether you are a new convert to Catholicism or just planning to cross the Tiber, good references will help you massively before, during, and even after the conversion.
Here are some of the best books for Catholic Converts, Reverts, or those who have yet to convert.
Rome Sweet Home
Author: Scott Hahn and Kimberly Hahn
Who doesn’t know Scott and Kimberly Hahn? I think they are that renowned that they inspired other famous protestants to convert to Catholicism.
This book authored by the Hahn couple, for me, is the best book for Catholic converts! This is about their journey to Catholicism. It has never been easy for them since they were anti-catholic but through open-mindedness and intellectual docility, they let themselves submit to Church’s authority.
The writing style is friendly. Readers could easily relate to the couple. Once you start reading, you can’t just put this down.
The Convert’s Guide to Roman Catholicism: Your First Year in the Church
Author: Keith Nester
After converting to the Catholic faith, now what? This book by Keith is a great help for those who struggle after their conversion to the faith. He, himself, had a firsthand experience of how difficult it is after entering Catholicism. He sacrificed many things for the faith.
The book is practical and humorous. It speaks Catholic with a touch of protestant accent. At the end of each chapter, Keith indicated “What to do” and “What not to do”, helping the new faithful to not worry. He is like your coach, guiding you to the unknown of Catholicism. This book is full of energy. Fun to read!
Waking Up Catholic: A Guide to Catholic Beliefs for Converts, Reverts, and Anyone Becoming Catholic
Author: Chad R. Torgerson
Looking for a Catholic encyclopedia-like that would answer your questions as a beginner to the faith? This book is for you!
This reference by Torgerson breaks down basic Catholic beliefs in a way that is easy to understand. It answers so many targeted questions about Catholicism. Each chapter is short yet insightful for better digestion. He explains everything with scriptures as a backup.
This is perfect for those considering becoming Catholic, undertaking RCIA class, reverting to the faith, or wanting to know the religion more!
Surprised By Truth: 11 Converts Give the Biblical and Historical Reasons for Becoming Catholic
Author: Patrick Madrid
Ever since I became interested in my religion, I have always loved reading conversion stories. The accounts of the converts just made me appreciate and value my faith more!
This piece by Patrick Madrid is a must-read! The conversion journeys of the eleven personalities are some of the best. They were former brightest protestant apologists and ministers who found the full truth of Catholicism.
The testimonies are packed with historical and biblical proof that the Catholic faith is true.
To those who have plans in converting, beware, this book might finally convince you to.
One of the best catholic books for beginners!
The Fathers Know Best: Your Essential Guide to the Teachings of the Early Church
Author: Jimmy Akin
It is without a doubt that almost all the converts I follow and admire would refer to the Church Fathers as one of the major reasons why they converted. This, for me, is powerful!
This 452-page book guides you to the teachings of the first Christians in an easy way. It includes quotes from the early Church Fathers plus relevant documents dating back to early Christianity. It also introduces biographies of Church Fathers together with their writings and teachings on topics such as homosexuality, divorce, and other issues the modern world is facing.
This is so informative which is good as a resource for apologetics or even just to gain additional knowledge as a new to the faith. It is highly recommended to those who are almost there in swimming the Tiber. This is too enticing that you would end up Catholic.
Prayer For Beginners
Author: Peter Kreeft
Prayer is an important part of our daily lives as Catholics. Through prayer, we communicate to God. We won’t grow in our faith if we skip it. As a new Catholic convert, this book is your best companion.
As the title suggests, this book is for those who want to know how to pray. Peter was able to explain many aspects of prayer in a simple and profound way. Some other books will provoke thought but this one will provoke you into action.
If you are struggling with prayer and would to improve your spiritual life, this book will surely help you. Invaluable!
Theology for Beginners
Author: Frank Sheed
The term “theology” is somehow intimidating especially if you are a new convert to the Catholic faith. But, Frank Sheed made it simple in this book.
The Theology for Beginners is structured in such a way that is useful for both uninitiated readers and those looking to clarify something about the Catholic teachings. It was straight to the point. He explained it with clarity making it easy and enjoyable to read. This is an excellent source for studying the dogmas of the Church (which is highly overwhelming).
Frank guides the reader along, inviting them to pause and let the topics sink in for better understanding. Theology made easy!
Conclusion
If you are a new convert, a revert, or on a fence about converting to the faith, the books mentioned would highly help you in knowing Catholicism more. Enjoy reading. And welcome to the Catholic Church!
For more Catholic books, check this out.
St. John Henry Newman, Patron Saint of Conversion, pray for us.
Diana
Thanks so much for this list!
nicoleandrewmata
You’re welcome! Thanks for dropping by. 🙂