Youcat English Youth Catechism of the Catholic YOUCAT Foundation

Many people say to me: The youth of today are not interested in this. I disagree, and I am certain that I am right. The youth of today are not as superficial as some think. They want to know what life is all about….This book is exciting because it speaks of our own destiny and so deeply engages every one of us.’ – Pope Benedict XVI

Published in many languages, YOUCAT, short for Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church, has been developed with the help of young Catholics and written for secondary-school-age students and young adults. YOUCAT is an accessible, contemporary expression of the Catholic Faith. The appealing graphic format includes questions and answers, highly-readable commentary, summary definitions of key terms, Bible citations and inspiring and thought-provoking quotes from saints, reliable teachers of the faith, and many others.

What’s more, YOUCAT deals with the entire Catholic Faith, as presented in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and is cross-referenced to it so people can go deeper. It explains: – What Catholics believe and why (doctrine) – How Catholics celebrate the mysteries of the faith (sacraments) – How Catholics are to live (moral life)- How Catholics should pray (prayer and spirituality) The questions are direct and honest, even at times tough; the answers straightforward, relevant, and compelling. YOUCAT is certainly the ‘go-to’ place for young people to learn the truth about the Catholic faith.

From the Foreword by Pope Benedict XVI’Study this Catechism! That is my heartfelt desire. This catechism was not written to please you. It will not make life easy for you, because it demands of you a new life. It places before you the Gospel message as the ‘pearl of great value’ (Mt 13:45) for which you must give everything. So I beg you: Study this Catechism with passion and perseverance. Make a sacrifice of you time for it! Study it in the quiet of your room; read it with a friend; form study groups and networks; share with each other on the Internet. By all means continue to talk with each other about your faith….’ – Pope Benedict XVI