Courage To Be Catholic is a thorough analysis and commentary on the scandal of 2002 when reports of sexual misconduct and abuse by Catholic clergy dominated the media. Weigel, a prominent Catholic author, analyzes the historical and cultural roots of the “crisis”, which cannot be limited simply to a media eager to discredit American bishops or to Catholic teachings on clerical celibacy, and then offers ideas for turning the crisis into an opportunity for a true renewal of the Church and the Catholic faith. Though the news reports are no longer dominated by stories of newly discovered instances of clerical sexual abuse, the book is still well worth reading, as the many issues involved in the crisis have yet to be adequately addressed. The book is honest and straightforward; Weigel does not attempt to downplay or direct attention away from the Church’s many weaknesses and failings that led to the scandal. However, it is also filled with a deep optimism and faith in the truth and beauty of Catholicism and the ability of both American Catholics and the worldwide Church to emerge from this scandal with a renewed and strengthened faith. This book should be on the reading list of every American Catholic, especially those who found their faith shaken and their spirit discouraged by the scandals that have rocked our Church.