Book Club: Catholic & Confident

Evangelism. It’s a hot topic and one that brings forth a lot of emotion from anyone of faith – and some of none. We are all called to be Evangelical Christians (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 16:1-4; 1 Peter 3:15). Like many, though, you may find this is easier to say than do (I sure do). After all, isn’t it easier to share your faith with those that already believe? Sure…but this isn’t quite what He had in mind when He told us to spread the good news. 

The title of the book – and tagline below it where what initially drew me to the book. Catholic and Confident: Simple Steps to Share Your Faith. Am I Catholic? Yes. Am I confident? Well…not really. At least not yet. 

Henry Libersat, the author, focuses on the steps needed to help you become confident in sharing your faith with others. Pope John Paul II called for a New Evangelization – even Pope Francis has called us to action. Henry works to put that call to action into manageable steps we can all follow. 

The key, he says, is broken down into three parts:

• The Foundation for Sharing Faith: As laypersons, we are now more responsible than ever to share our faith. Does this mean making a sign that THE END IS NEAR and shouting from street corners? Heavens no. Using Christ as our leader, we are encouraged to “meet people on their own level” and speak to them in a way they understand. By developing a personal relationship with Christ we can become more comfortable in our faith and therefore be equipped to share it with others. 

• How It Is Done (how to share): Once we have established our own foundation, Henry wants us to find our OWN story and share it. How did you first become aware of God and his love for you? By making it personal, and speaking with others about your experience, you are forging a bridge they can come across and learn with you. Henry also points out that we are all given talents, and it’s through these talents that we are to share the Good News. One example he gave is that of a computer programmer…perhaps this person wouldn’t be best at speaking in front of a crowd but would be wonderful at sitting with the elderly and sharing his “computer basics” knowledge with them…and the Good News as well. 

• Let the Spirit Act: Henry reminds us that we are never alone in our journey. Through the Holy Spirit we are given gifts of wisdom, counsel, knowledge, understanding, fortitude, and many more.