Answering the call for The New Evangelization, this multi-media educational program reveals the truth, beauty and richness of the Faith in an unprecedented way. With creator and host Fr. Robert Barron, participants will learn what Catholics believe and why by exploring the art, architecture, literature, music and all the treasures of the Catholic tradition. CATHOLICISM is filmed on-location and in the streets, illustrating the splendor of the global Church all in original, high-definition cinematography. Comprehensive catechesis appropriate for RCIA and other adult formation programs. Presents strong, ecclesial dimension of the Catholic Faith God s revelation through Jesus Christ and His Church. English/Spanish Audio and English/Spanish Subtitles
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291 of 295 found the following review helpful:
SuperbSep 19, 2011
By bobbalouie Four years in the making, "Catholicism" is the long-awaited evangelical work of Fr. Robert Barron, professor of systematic theology at St. Mary of the Lake Seminary in Mundelein, Illinois. In addition to rock solid scholarship and theology, the DVD series is filled with beautiful cinematography, which is used to illustrate the theological points in the series. As Fr. Barron points out, the Catholic Church is and always has been a Church that embraces both the "right and left brain" of humanity. It is a Church of science AND art, and the imagery in the DVD series is far more than fluff or filler. The art depicted is ITSELF theology, and is very compelling. Fr. Barron reminds us over and over again of the historicity of Jesus, and we see compelling modern examples of the Gospels in practice. This series is mandatory viewing for anyone with a serious interest in the Catholic Church historically and today. This will be one of the great evangelical works of modern times.
PBS has already picked up four of the ten episodes, which will air in all major U.S. television markets. I've seen the entire series (ten episodes in all) and I would strongly recommend purchasing the whole set. Truly a remarkable work. Fr. Barron is a genial, engaging and very powerful advocate for Christianity and Catholicism who will not be easily dismissed.
Precisely because it is so remarkable and compelling, I predict "Catholicism" will be vigorously attacked by today's self-styled "new atheists." And with good reason: this series represents a mortal threat to the various brands of atheism, apostasy and simple misunderstanding currently in vogue. If I were an atheist I'd be very afraid of this work! So expect some "piling on" from that quarter. That's virtually a selling point for Fr. Barron's series.
If you're a Christian believer, a "cruise control Catholic," or simply an open-minded non-religious person who wonders what Christianity in general, and Catholicism in particular, is all about, by all means purchase this DVD series. If you can't afford it, check out the PBS broadcast. (I believe the 6 episodes not being broadcast on PBS will be broadcast on EWTN.) Two thumbs WAY UP. If I had more thumbs, I'd point them up too. This DVD series is superb in all respects and will be a classic.
186 of 189 found the following review helpful:
Brilliant!Sep 14, 2011
By Judy I am writing this review after watching only the first 3 episodes (hours):
I ordered this DVD set on a whim, thinking that at the very least, it would show the beautiful places that I had visited on my various pilgrimages, and give a little history. I was delightfully surprised when Fr. Barron started teaching! Edifying! Not only are you drawn in by the beauty and wonder of the various places where Our Blessed Lord walked and taught, but the commentary and instruction of Fr. Barron is smart, and NOT fluff, it delves deep. Fr. Barron speaks as if he were talking to someone who is genuinely searching for the truth, which made this a refreshing bonus- after all, who isn't searching for Truth? My only regret is that I didn't order the study guides to go along with it. I've gone back and purchased 3 more sets already as gifts and plan to purchase a couple more for Christmas gifts as I believe this DVD set will definitely aid in enriching one's Catholic faith!
105 of 105 found the following review helpful:
AmazingSep 28, 2011
By Dave G Fr Barron has attempted to explain Catholicism from the inside out- that is, from the Catholic perspective. Any religion can only really be understood from those who have stepped into its perspective, much like a player in a sport must "enter into" the rules and spirit of a game to truly compete. No Olympic athlete ever won a Gold while thinking critically about it as an outsider or refusing to buy into their sport's spirit. Barron has provided exactly that for Catholicism, and in style!
Beyond the beautifully photographed and musically accompanied images, Barron provides a deeply insightful narrative that gives life to those images and slowly but intelligently unpacks the beauty of the Church as only a Catholic can see it. As a Catholic, I have already seen and experienced much of what he talks about. Yet many aspects of his narrative are refreshingly new to me. Overall I have been deeply impressed with Barron's discussion in the series and his ability to catch and explain rather profound truths in an easily approachable manner.
Fr Barron is no intellectual wimp. He is obviously widely read, and knows the tradition well. He is at home in modern and ancient philosophy and the Patristics. Barron continually ties his narrative into modern day history and culture. And boy does he travel. I got exhausted just thinking about how much travel went into this series.
I recommend this to anyone who really wants to understand the Church from someone who KNOWS the Church. Fr Barron avoids being triumphalistic and cocky and instead is engaging and passionate. He avoids stereotypes and trite overly-simplistic spiritual cliches. He lets the art speak for itself.
In short it is a very cool series. I highly recommend it.
57 of 57 found the following review helpful:
FANTASTICSep 22, 2011
By Malt Monk It's Great that we can hear the story of our Catholic Faith on these dvd's... and from such a learned priest. Thank-you Father Barron. It is great to have you tell all who will listen, about our treasure.. our faith. The Catholic Church (as promised) is going to last to the end of time and is doctrinally sound; although we can't say the same for all its' many members. The Church is a hospital for sinners and saints, martyrs and persecutors. Watch these dvd's and learn.. as I pray you are enticed to study further. I'm sure after this labor of love, Father Barron can expect to hear these words, "`Well done, good and faithful servant"..
77 of 80 found the following review helpful:
CITY LIBRARIES ARE ORDERING THISSep 09, 2011
By New to Catholic Faith This series is epic and Fr Barron is an incredible teacher and lecturer...I know he will make many more converts with this new book and DVD series...there is a long waiting list for these at my city library...I am donating my copies to my Church library...
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( 109 customer reviews )
