Beyond its beauty, traditions, and historical claims, what does the Roman Catholic Church really believe and practice?

This is the question many may ask, particularly in Europe, where Catholic movements express themselves in a wide variety of forms, often using very evangelical language and practices.

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In six episodes of around 10 minutes each, published on its website as well as on YouTube and Vimeo, “This is Roman Catholicism” offers an insight into practices that many would consider a part of the past, such as indulgences or the relics of saints.

This series, filmed on the streets, in basilicas in Rome and at other places of pilgrimage across Europe such as Fátima and Lourdes, is produced under the umbrella of the “Reformanda Initiative”, which brings together evangelical theologians who, over the course of a decade, have analysed the modern expression of Roman Catholicism today.

“A first-hand look at often-overlooked aspects of Roman Catholicism”

Each episode is narrated by a different theologian: Michael Reeves on indulgences, Kevin DeYoung on relics, Leonardo De Chirico on intellect and devotion, Lauren Montenegro on devotion to Mary, Albert Mohler on the Church as State, and Mark Dever on ecumenism.

Taken together, these authors aim to offer “a first-hand look at often-overlooked yet integral aspects of Roman Catholic theology and practice, challenging idealised perceptions of Rome and encouraging informed, biblical discernment—particularly amongst those drawn to it”.

How to use it

The resource is free and also accessible on the project's YouTube, Vimeo and Instagram channels.

A guide featuring historical texts and key biblical passages helps small groups to study the material in churches or theological seminaries.

Leonardo De Chirico, an Evangelical Focus columnist, has explained that although the docuseries has been launched first in English, it will be soon offered in other languages as well.