100 Tough Questions for Catholics

Carol Sbordon Bannon recommends the new book by Donald G. Bonagura, Jr., to Catholic parents and catechists seeking resources.

100 Tough Questions for Catholics: Common Obstacles for Faith Today

by Donald G. Bonagura, Jr.

Publisher: Sophia Institute Press

Throughout my years as a parochial-school teacher and catechist, I’ve encountered countless questions from students on challenging topics like homosexuality, divorce, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. As someone baptized Catholic at birth and educated in Catholic parochial schools for twelve years, I thought I had a firm grasp on my faith. 

However, 100 Tough Questions for Catholics by Donald G. Bonagura, Jr. quickly proved me wrong. 

A resource for parents and catechists

This book is an invaluable resource for both parents and catechists. The questions it addresses are ones that Catholic young people often ask as they seek a deeper understanding of their faith. These questions — whether asked by teens, young adults, or anyone curious about Catholicism — are ones that all Catholics, no matter their age or background, should explore. Bonagura’s responses are not only thoughtful and clear but also demonstrate a deep respect for the intellectual curiosity of young people, offering explanations that speak to their genuine questions. 

For example, one question asks, “Does the theory of evolution contradict the Bible?” (Question #9). Bonagura explains that “scientific discoveries can often lend rational credence to faith,” citing the Big Bang theory as evidence pointing to God as the Creator. He wisely adds that “scientific theories cannot contradict the Bible because truth cannot contradict truth.” This insight reminded me of Pilate’s famous question to Christ, “What is truth?” — a question that underscores the importance of truth, with Christ as the embodiment of it.  

Just this one answer could spark an entire conversation, diving into complex issues like stem-cell research, human cloning, and other ethical dilemmas many young people grapple with in today’s rapidly evolving world. 

100 Tough Questions for Catholics covers a wide range of issues currently discussed in society. When confronted with questions that challenge the Church’s teachings, Bonagura does not shy away from providing clear, direct answers. For example: Is dabbling in the occult a sin? Yes! Is racism a sin? Yes! Is being gay a sin? No! Are all religions essentially the same? No! After each direct answer, he elaborates with compassionate reasoning, offering young people a deeper understanding of why the Church holds these positions. 

I particularly appreciate how Bonagura tackles often misunderstood aspects of the faith, such as the Sacrament of Confession. Many people today mistakenly believe that simply telling God they are sorry is enough for forgiveness. Bonagura clarifies that the priest is “the channel for Christ's forgiveness,” providing both biblical and doctrinal references for those who wish to explore the matter further. 

This book also addresses questions that have caused many young people to consider leaving the faith, such as: Why is in-vitro fertilization considered sinful? Or, if a loved one is suffering with no hope of recovery, why is euthanasia wrong? Bonagura provides clear, factual, and compassionate answers to these and other difficult questions, including those about sexuality, morality, life after death, and the fate of those who die without being baptized — or even those who have never heard of Christ. 

Questions that Deserve Thoughtful, Faithful Answers

These are weighty questions that deserve thoughtful, faithful answers — and Bonagura delivers them in a concise manner, rooted firmly in the Church’s teachings. As a parent and catechist, I also appreciate how the book is well-organized, making it easy to find answers to the tough questions young people are often too hesitant to ask, and even harder to answer. 

As Catholics, we are all called to evangelize — and the place to start is in our homes and parishes. I highly recommend this book to every catechist, RCIA instructor, and Catholic parent of teens or young adults. It’s an invaluable resource for guiding young people not only in understanding what the Church teaches but also in why the Church teaches it. 

Our youth are the future of the Church, and they have questions — many of which, if left unanswered, could hinder them from living fully in communion with Christ and the Church. 100 Tough Questions for Catholics will help them find the answers they seek. 

And in providing those answers? You, too, will grow in knowledge. I know I certainly did. 

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Copyright 2025 Carol Sbordon Bannon
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