How to support and defend your Catholic Faith

Many Catholics find themselves doubting, unsure, or intimidated when confronted by those of other faiths. This article is designed to assist and arm you for just such a situation. If you follow the steps below you will gain a deeper faith, greater understanding, and an increased ability to witness when needed.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• A Catholic Bible
• Time
• A library or internet connection

1. Let not your heart be troubled. The arguments and criticisms of other faiths can be troubling and intimidating. But remember that there is nothing new under the sun. The Church has two thousand years of history, writing, and thought that is bound to cover any challenge you may encounter.
   
   Keep this in mind, and go forth with confidence.
2. Try to read a little each day. You do not need to devote much time to it, just be consistent and you will soon begin to amass a good body of knowledge. You should read anti-catholic arguments as well as church doctrine and responses. Do not be afraid of contrary positions; seek to understand them so that you can better refute false claims.
3. Talk with people. Speak with your priest or learned church members. Ask questions and practice your logic and speaking. Do the same with opponents. At first it is best to listen, be a sponge until you feel you are ready to jump into the discussion.
4. Do not forget-and I cannot stress this enough- to pray pray pray. Pray to the Holy Spirit for wisdom, and seek the intercession of church doctors such as St. Thomas Aquinas, Augustine, Cyril of Alexandria, etc. Pray when you study, when you are about to enter a debate, and at any other times you feel the call.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that right reason and truth can never be in opposition. If they appear to be then either the data is faulty or the reason flawed.
• Read your Bible and Catechism.
• Think of the Catechism as your Cliff Notes to the Bible.
• Remember our Lord promised the Church his guidance and protection. Though she is made of imperfect humans she is the vessel of God's perfect truth.
• Always be ready to dig deeper
• Be open to God