The Catholic Church appears to be in serious crisis – distorted by scandals, divided by theological, cultural, and political differences, receding institutionally in many areas, and viewed as irrelevant by a culture that believes it has moved beyond this kind of religious faith.

However, the number of practicing Catholics is increasing every year, with an expanding membership seeking to be well grounded spiritually, intellectually, and pastorally. Many young people are curious to learn about and experience traditional and historical realities. Therefore, the need for an informed and thoughtful restatement of the Spirit of Catholicism has never been more urgent.

In this clear and understandable book, Vivian Boland presents the essence of Catholic faith and life, what res catholica believes it essentially is. From its foundation in Holy Scripture, learning from significant figures in Christian history, and in the full light of Pope Francis's apostolic ethics, this narrative of Catholicism sheds new light on familiar teachings—the treasure carried by this ‘earthen vessel’.

Neither apologetic nor controversial, it shows how integration is at the heart of Catholicism – Christ, Mary, the sacraments, a historical institutional organization. It demonstrates how this body is structured and develops into a way of life characterized by a special form of brotherhood and culminates in a particular presence in human history and society.

The teachings of the Catholic Church on Mary and the Eucharist, on hierarchy and authority, on spiritual life and pastoral care, on holiness and love are presented in depth and in their full context: Christ as the Son of God and head of humanity, the Holy Spirit giving energy and new life, and the Father, the great love waiting for us.