A Well Built Faith – Lawn Chair Catechism

by Lisa Henley Jones | May 28, 2014 | Book and Product Review, Catechesis, Catholicism, Lawn Chair Catechism

I am thrilled to see CatholicMom.com return with their Lawn Chair Catechism series this summer, but even more excited that the book is a great book that I’ve read! Woo Hoo!

First you ask, what is Lawn Chair Catechism? Over the next few months, Sarah Reinhard at CatholicMom.com will be breaking open a book on our Catholic Faith, one chapter, one week at a time. She posts an introduction to the chapter, her thoughts and then discussion questions on Wednesday mornings. Everyone can discuss in the comments section on that post, or link up a blog post of your own with your thoughts. You don’t have to have read the book to enjoy the discussion.

The book I’m excited for this year? “A Well-Built Faith, A Catholic’s Guide to Knowing and Sharing What We Believe” by Joe Paprocki. I initially read and reviewed this book here on Of Sound Mind and Spirit over four years ago. A little snippet of what I said about the book:

“A great tool and resource for all cradle Catholics who want to brush up on the “why” of our faith or learn things we’ve missed along the way. A Well Built Faith gives you the knowledge and confidence to be able to share your faith with your friends, family and children.”

Joe Paprocki has authored numerous books on catechesis to help everyday Catholics understand what we believe and help us pass on our faith through teaching or simply by living out our lives. And the best part, his books are written in a way that are easy to navigate. Not dumbed down or simplistic, but just simple and straightforward.

Rereading the introduction and first chapter of A Well Built Faith for the Lawn Chair Catechism series, my mind kept circling on this bible verse included in the intro. “Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.” 1 Peter 3:15

For years, I was a practicing Catholic who was unable to give an explanation for my hope. Then I started reading, investigating and learning about my faith. Through books, podcasts, bible studies blogging and more a whole new Catholic world was opened for me bringing me closer to Christ than I imagined. I still have a long way to go, so the best part is – I will always be learning and growing in my faith, therefore; getting closer to God.

Those Pillars of Faith that Paprocki talks about in this first chapter – Holding on to Faith, Expressing Faith, Living Faith and Praying Faith – will be strengthened as I continue on my journey.

We are called to be a disciple and to “make disciples of all nations” but in order to do so, we must understand and know our faith. And the better we understand it, the better we can live our lives as His disciples and share God’s love with others.

Will you join us this summer for a little Lawn Chair Catechism?