Practice Makes Catholic

It is said that practice makes perfect, but what else does practice make? If you ask Joe Paprocki, author of the best-selling The Catechist’s Tookbox, he’ll say that practice makes Catholic, that is, that there are certain distinct practices that make us essentially Catholic. The problem is that too many Catholics don’t understand, or misunderstand, why we engage in the many practices we do; as a result, there’s no heart in their actions, and they fail to make the critical connection between the faith they once learned and the faith they now live. In Practice Makes Catholic, Paprocki addresses the all-important ‘why’ of many Catholic practices. Based on research he conducted, Paprocki articulates five key characteristics that form our Catholic identity: a sense of sacramentality, a commitment to community, a respect for the dignity of human life and a commitment to justice, a reverence for tradition, and a disposition to faith and hope rather than despair. Under each of these categories, he explores and explains the multiple practices, then describes how following each practice can make a profound difference in our faith and in our daily lives. Written in Papricki’s trademark style which is informative and inviting, this book is ideal for RCIA candidates and sponsors, as well as for Catholics returning to the faith. Truly, anyone who is more comfortable letting his or her actions speak louder than words when it comes to spreading the Gospel will embrace the message of this book. Joe Papricki, Dmin is a consultant in the US for faith formation at Loyola Press. He has 30 years experience in ministry and has taught at high school, college and general adult levels, and currently serves as a fourth-grade catechist. He is a popular speaker as well as the author of several books, including The Catechist’s Toolbox.