A Brief Catechism for Adults: A Complete Handbook on How to Be a Good Catholic

A Brief Catechism for Adults is a little masterpiece designed for instructing converts. But it also serves as a useful handbook for lifelong Catholics who want to understand their faith more deeply. After the first edition of the book was used to catechize tens of thousands seeking to become Catholic, this second edition was revised in the light of notes made by numerous Catholic priests who had used the text. So it represents the fruit of extensive experience in teaching the Faith to converts, and for years it was practically the standard catechism in the U.S. and Canada for that purpose.

This book is packed with facts and written in short, clear, question-and-answer format, accompanied by brief Scripture quotes. Using concise, ordinary language to explain profound theological and moral truths, it examines:

·         what we must believe and do to be saved

·         how to form a correct conscience

·         the duties of Catholic spouses and parents

·         common mortal sins

·         the interior design of a traditional Catholic church

·         how to pray the Rosary

·         popular saints’ names for Baptism and Confirmation

·         familiar Catholic prayers

·         practical points for responding to common questions that arise in an unbelieving world.

A Brief Catechism for Adults is a valuable handbook for becoming a faithful Catholic — perfect for inquirers, but excellent for cradle Catholics as well. 

The Rev. Father William J. Cogan was a priest and author of the twentieth century, serving the diocese of Chicago. His A Brief Catechism for Adults: A Complete Handbook on How to be a Good Catholic was first published in 1951, receiving the Nihil Obstat and Imprimatur around 1958. Father Cogan's brief but comprehensive work was designed for the instruction of converts, and was compiled from the numerous notes of other priests. The book was also reprinted by TAN in 1993 with additional material.