Catechism 101: How Faith Works

Catechism 101: How Faith Works

Author: Dr Caitlin West May 25, 2026 Duration: 14:35

How does faith actually work? There's a gap between logically knowing something is true and actually believing it — and in this episode of Catechism 101, we unpack exactly what it takes to cross that gap.


If this helped, a like and subscribe helps more people find it.


WHAT WE COVER

• The difference between knowing something is true and actually believing it

• Why faith is a gift from God — and what that means practically

• The four things that have to happen to make an act of faith

• Why the will matters just as much as the intellect

• Why God is the most credible source there is


TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Introduction

2:11 — Why we can't force faith

3:39 — The ocean metaphor

4:44 — Breaking down an act of faith

7:56 — Why the source matters

10:32 — Putting it all together

13:25 — What to do if you're struggling to believe


CRASH COURSE CATHOLICISM

A series on Catholic teaching and why it makes sense.

▶ Previous episode — What Is Faith?: https://youtu.be/dSs_AxrpiKE

▶ Full playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLw6henAD9rk0-RxLqLoqycLVftmfFo9-r

▶ Read the blog post: https://www.caitlinwest.com/post/how-faith-works


SUPPORT THE PODCAST

This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links:

💛 Donate via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=6WSCLFHLCDXH2

☕ Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/caitlinwest

📩 Contact: www.caitlinwest.com

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/


#HowFaithWorks #CatholicFaith #CatholicTeaching #Catechism #Catholicism


For anyone curious about the foundations, traditions, and everyday implications of the Catholic faith, Crash Course Catholicism offers a thoughtful and accessible entry point. Hosted by theologian Dr Caitlin West, this podcast breaks down complex theological concepts, historical context, and Church teachings into clear, manageable conversations. Each fortnightly episode focuses on a specific topic-from the sacraments and scripture to moral philosophy and liturgical practice-providing listeners with a structured yet engaging overview. Dr West’s approach is both scholarly and welcoming, making centuries of tradition feel relevant and comprehensible. Whether you're a lifelong parishioner seeking a refresher, someone exploring spirituality, or simply a person with questions about the world's largest Christian denomination, this series is designed to inform without overwhelming. Tune in for a calm, considered journey through the pillars of Catholic thought, all delivered in short, easy-to-digest segments perfect for a daily commute or quiet moment of reflection. You can find more from Dr Caitlin West and the podcast at her website.
Author: Language: en-gb Episodes: 100

Crash Course Catholicism
Podcast Episodes
71 - St. Gianna Beretta Molla: Wife, Mum, Doctor, Saint [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:36
St. Gianna Beretta Molla was born in 1922. As a young woman, she wanted to be a missionary but eventually saw that God was calling her to marriage and family life. She became a pediatrician, and she and her husband Pietr…
70 - How Indulgences Work [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:51
What's an indulgence? How do I obtain one? Is it true that the Catholic church sold indulgences in the past? In this episode, we wrap up our discussion on penance and contrition in the lead-up to Holy Week. Donate via Pa…
69 - How to go to Confession (and make it a good one!) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:18
What should I say in the confessional? What happens if I forget one of my sins, or forget to say my penance? Can non-Catholics go to confession? This episode is a practical guide for going to confession. Donate via PayPa…
68 - Lent and Easter [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:40
What are the origins of Lent? Do I have to give something up? Why is there no mass on Good Friday? How long does the Easter season last? (Hint: ages) In this episode, we discuss the Lenten and Easter Seasons. Donate via…
67 - Ecumenism and Apostolate [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:06
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19) How does the Catholic church dialogue with other faiths and denominations without compromising on the truth? Why is it important to have friends who don't…
66 - Unity and Diversity [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:41
How do we balance unity and diversity within the Catholic church? Do Catholics have to accept every single one of the official teachings of the church? Does union with the pope mean accepting and believing every single t…
65 - Gifts and Charisms of the Holy Spirit [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:20
What are charisms? Do Catholics believe that people can speak in tongues? How do I know what my unique gifts are? Happy New Year! Welcome to our first episode of 2024! ⁠⁠Donate via PayPal⁠⁠:https://www.paypal.com/donate/…
64 - Advent and CHRISTMAS!!! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:21
What should we do during Advent? Have we always celebrated Christmas on the 25th December? What are the origins of the Christmas tree and the nativity scene? In this episode, we discuss one of the most beautiful and impo…
63 - Our Lady of Fatima Pt. 2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:22
The appearance of Our Lady at Fátima in 1917 was one of the most incredible and significant events of the twentieth century. In these apparitions, Mary encouraged the world to pray the rosary, and to pray for peace, poor…
62 - Our Lady of Fatima Pt. 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:31
The appearance of Our Lady at Fátima in 1917 was one of the most incredible and significant events of the twentieth century. In these apparitions, Mary encouraged the world to pray the rosary, and to pray for peace, poor…