Why God?: A Layman’s Irreverently Reverent Case for the Catholic Church
By Dennis J. Petersen
Why God? makes an engaging, accessible case for the Catholic faith from the perspective of an ordinary Catholic asking extraordinary questions. Dennis J. Petersen explores the arguments for God’s existence, the historical Jesus Christ, holy scripture (and what that even means), and other elements of the faith with comedy, candor, and conviction. Why God? seriously engages with and addresses some of the major counterarguments, such as the problem of suffering in this world, the sex abuse crisis, and the supposed clash between science and religion.
This book doesn’t preach to the choir. It speaks to the culture in the language of the culture, blending biblical references, history, science, dad jokes, and pop culture in a way that’s conversational but never condescending. Petersen seamlessly weaves together the wisdom of Thomas Aquinas, Jimmy Buffett, C.S. Lewis, the Simpsons, Plato, Battlestar Galactica, and more to produce a Catholic apologetic that’s unapologetically pithy. This irreverently reverent “Intro to Catholicism 101” invites believers, seekers, and skeptics alike to examine Catholicism’s audacious claim: that it’s the truth.
Hardback: $24.95 | Paperback: $17.95 | Audible: $14.99 | Kindle: $9.99
TESTIMONIALS
“Petersen brings faith down from the clouds and into the questions ordinary Catholics actually ask. Why God? is engaging, candid, and refreshingly human—a thoughtful invitation to rediscover the Church with both reason and wonder.” – Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, co-author with Ronda Chervin of Catholic Realism
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dennis J. Petersen is a professional writer and editor with nearly two decades of federal government experience and an officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He currently serves as Deputy Managing Editor for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, writing and editing reports to Congress on major U.S. military, diplomatic, and humanitarian operations.
A former congressional staffer, Petersen has written extensively on defense, foreign affairs, public policy, and international development. His first book, Alpha Bravo Charlie: A Child’s Guide to the NATO Phonetic Alphabet, was published in 2023. As a Navy Reserve Public Affairs Officer, he has supported major exercises and operations in the Pacific and has rendered funeral honors for more than 120 fallen Sailors.
Petersen lives in Alexandria, Virginia, with his wife, Megan, their children, Annie and Joe, and their dogs, Chewie and Rita. He and his family are active members of St. Rita Catholic Church.
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