Catholicism And Fundamentalism, The Book And The Author

By Stella Gay


The attacks on Catholic faith and her doctrines over the years have inspired Keating Karl to make an attempt at explaining the major points of contention. Catholicism and Fundamentalism is a book targeted at Catholics, Protestants and non-Christians who wish to understand the Catholic faith better. It takes a historical, theological and doctrinal perspective.

The approach adopted by this author has seen many weak Catholic faithful affirm their belief. It also has caused Protestants to convert into staunch Catholics because they understand the faith better. It is considered and easy-to-read book with revelations that were previously hidden from the non-Catholics. The author is also the founder of Catholic Answers, an organization dedicated to providing answers about Catholic faith and doctrines.

Some burning issues handled by the writer include where Protestants get their information from. This is aimed at revealing the genesis of their misconceptions about Catholicism. The argument is that if the sources of information are flawed, it automatically means that decisions and conclusions made from such information must be wrong.

Karl is bothered about the existence of an elaborate anti-Catholicism movement in USA and delves deeper to understand it. The chapters provide a history and foundations of the movement as well as their events. There is an outline of how such organizations and personalities have colluded to spread falsehood and thus divide Christians more and more.

The author has delved into the process of engaging in arguments to assist Catholics and parties interested in debate to argue without loosing their cool. The writer insists that the best approach is to give facts for education or enlightenment purposes instead of conversion. The person is likely to convert or understand Roman Catholic doctrines easier through facts as opposed to skewed arguments.

The Anti-Catholic movement and its spread in USA have been given prominence by Keating. These underground movements have been funding smear campaigns and propaganda against the Catholic Church. Keating reveals their missions, history and activities as well as personalities behind them. There are business men, politicians and ideological figures responsible. Their events and physical address eliminate any doubt about their existence.

Papal infallibility remains a doctrinal principle and subject of attack by non-Catholics. The principle implies that since Papacy was handed down by Jesus to Peter and to the eventual holders of the office, the Pope gained immunity to error. This gives him authority to direct doctrinal and moral issues to the global community of Catholics without question.

Other issues addressed by Keating in this book include the meaning of a bible Christian. There is a chapter on the changes that have occurred in the Catholic Church over the years and their implications. Karl further explains the misconception that Catholics are not real Christians. The issue of the Inquisition is comprehensively addressed as well.

For Catholics and other Christian skeptics, the author explains the scenario that led to there being two popes at one point. Answers on whether Catholics are saved or not are included in the book. It also provides answers on whether the bible was inspired or not. This is considered A-Must-Have for Catholics and those who seek to understand the faith.




About the Author: