Book Review: Catholics vs. Protestants by Andrew Goliszek

“Since the Protestant Reformation, and even before that, the Catholic Church has often been slandered and demonized. And too many well-meaning Christians have fallen into the trap of believing what they have heard or read. This book is a response to that. Each chapter begins with a common myth or falsehood about Catholicism and then counters that myth with facts and Scripture, as well as a catechism quote or two, to solidify it. Catholics may find it eye-opening. And hopefully, Protestants who thought they knew what their Catholic friends believed will be enlightened by truth, scripture, and undeniable facts.”

Andrew Goliszek, Catholics vs. Protestants

Review:

First and foremost, I want to address the title. While surely members on both sides of this conversation may see ‘VS’ and be inclined to get defensive (as I did myself, admittedly), that’s when I realized that I needed to read this book. There are so many ‘us vs. them’ scenarios nowadays, when in a lot of cases, sitting down and having a discussion would diffuse so much of the tension. This book opens the discussion surrounding Christian religions.

Each chapter begins with a myth about Catholicism, then proceeds to elaborate on why the stated myth is either false and/or misinterpreted. The explanations come from a Catholic perspective, thoroughly researched and rooted in both Scripture and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Although I think it would have been compelling if this book had been co-authored by a Protestant giving their own perspective and side of the argument, even without this, I found myself learning more about my faith as well as others’ perceptions, along with some history of the Reformation and Martin Luther. 

Most interestingly for me was realizing that I didn’t know the extent of some of the myths and truths despite being an actively practicing cradle Catholic myself. For example, through this book (and further research afterward), I learned that there have only been two instances where papal infallibility (ex cathedra) has been exercised. While I knew what the definition of this infallibility is (refers to dogma, not every statement made by a pope or the pope himself), I didn’t know how few statements have actually been made. (Or if I did, I’ve since forgotten.)

This is going to be a book that I refer back to in the future. I think it is a great and accessible aid for Catholics who are looking to debate this subject respectfully, or even to use it as a refresher (particularly cradle Catholics who were young when catechized). I applaud Andrew Goliszek for his efforts with this book. I do hope it will garner Protestant readers as well to deepen their understanding of what the Catholic Church actually believes. 

Thanks to Reedsy Discovery for providing a free digital ARC of the book!

Likes & Dislikes:

What I liked:

• Thorough, but not overwhelming.
• References to Scripture.

What I didn’t like:

• I do wish the title were different. I feel that it won’t invite opposing views to read.

Afterthoughts:

I’ve also purchased a physical copy.

Where to buy the book: