How to Stay Catholic in College: A Review

I recently read "How to Stay Catholic in College" written by Professor Christopher Kaczor. It reminds me of a Catholic strategy guide for those students entering the big college world.

Professor Kaczor writes about "worldly learning" and "spiritual learning" and how both areas need to be cultivated at the same rate.

With "worldly learning" Kaczor assures the new college student that there is "nothing to fear from embracing learning and acquiring wisdom." He stresses that "no area of knowledge is forbidden, off limits, or contrary to spiritual development." However, he goes on to warn that many colleges have a very anti-religious attitude, especially when it comes to Catholicism. Kaczor warns the student of those historical teachings and philosophies that are incompatible with the Christian faith. He reminds the student to look at both sides- yes, there have been times that people in the Catholic Church have not made the best decisions, but the gifts the Church has given to society far outnumber the negative aspects: the founding of universities and hospitals, for example.

Professor Kaczor also reminds the reader that Catholicism and science are compatible, which I don't think is stressed enough in our culture today.

He also spends quite a bit of time on the subject of relativism- the notion of "what's true for me may not be true for you." The man facet of relativism is that there is no truth, which Kaczor explains is a self-contradiction. He explains how this way of thinking can destroy one's educational experience.

Professor Kaczor then focuses on "spiritual learning." He reminds the reader to learn as much as he or she can about the Catholic faith and gives some direction on where to go to find the answers to questions one may think of while learning about the faith.

He also stresses how important it is to find a good group of friends that will help in fostering a deep Catholic faith. Drinking alcohol, partying, sexual relationships- they get in the way of God and one's studies and future goals. He points out places to find good Catholic friends- a pro-life group or campus ministry are some suggestions he gives.

He then gives practical hints on how to stay strong in the faith- go to Mass, go to monthly confession, and serving others are some ideas.

This book was a very short read- only 17 pages. I kind of wish it were a bit longer and went into more depth- especially about making friends and how peer pressure and not having parents around can greatly influence one's decisions in college. However, 17 pages may be the perfect amount of reading for a young person who is busy getting ready for the huge transition of going to college.

One thing that also struck me- this book is great for a student who intends to really stay Catholic in college. However, if a student intends to stay Catholic they have probably been raised to know most of the material presented in this book. If this book is given to a barely-practicing Catholic then it probably won't do much good. (However, you never know what seed might be planted by giving someone this book.)

Overall, this was a good read. It has suggestions for living out a better Catholic life that can apply to everyone, not just college students.

This review was written as part of the Catholic books reviewer program from The Catholic Company. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on How to Stay Catholic in College.