Beyond its beauty, traditions, and historical claims, what does the Roman Catholic Church really believe and practice? This Is Roman Catholicism, a documentary series from the Reformanda Initiative, offers a firsthand look at often-overlooked yet integral aspects of Roman Catholic theology and practice, challenging idealized perceptions of Rome and encouraging informed, biblical discernment—particularly among those drawn to it. This docuseries is made primarily for Protestant Christians who want to understand what Rome teaches and practices. Featuring: Leonardo De Chirico, Mark Dever, Kevin DeYoung, Albert Mohler, Lauren Montenegro, and Michael Reeves. 

Watch all 6 episodes below or on your preferred platform.

INDULGENCES

What are indulgences, and why do they remain an important part of Roman Catholic faith and practice? Often associated with the controversies of the Protestant Reformation, indulgences continue to play a significant role in Roman Catholic theology and devotional life today.

Filmed at significant religious sites around the globe, this episode of This Is Roman Catholicism, narrated by Michael Reeves, explores the history, theology, and contemporary practice of indulgences, examining their relationship to purgatory, forgiveness, and the biblical understanding of salvation by grace through faith.

RELICS

What are relics, and why do they continue to hold such significance in Roman Catholic faith and practice? From fragments believed to belong to the cross of Christ to the preserved remains and personal belongings of saints, relics have occupied an important place in Catholic devotion for centuries.

Filmed in historic churches, basilicas, and pilgrimage sites across the globe, this episode of This Is Roman Catholicism, narrated by Kevin DeYoung, takes viewers inside the world of relic veneration, exploring its history, theological foundations, and continuing role in Roman Catholic spirituality, while examining its relationship to the biblical understanding of worship and faith.

INTELLECT AND DEVOTION

How do Roman Catholicism's rich intellectual tradition and its devotional practices fit together? From the theological legacy of Thomas Aquinas to the veneration of saints and relics, Roman Catholicism brings together sophisticated scholarship and centuries-old religious traditions.

Filmed in historic churches, universities, and sacred sites in Italy, this episode of This Is Roman Catholicism, narrated by Leonardo De Chirico, explores the relationship between intellect and devotion, examining how these seemingly different expressions of faith are woven together within the broader theological system of Roman Catholicism.

MARIAN DEVOTION

What place does Mary occupy in Roman Catholic faith and practice? From the rosary and daily prayers to Marian apparitions and pilgrimages, devotion to Mary is deeply woven into Roman Catholic spirituality.

Filmed at significant Marian pilgrimage sites, including Lourdes and Fátima, and narrated by Lauren Montenegro, this episode of This Is Roman Catholicism takes viewers inside the beliefs, traditions, and practices surrounding Mary, exploring their theological significance and their relationship to the biblical account of the mother of Jesus.

CHURCH AS STATE

How does the Roman Catholic Church function as both a religious institution and a sovereign political power? From crowning emperors and shaping European history to maintaining diplomatic relations with nations around the world, the relationship between church and state has long been a defining feature of Roman Catholicism.

Filmed in Vatican City and at significant historical and political sites, this episode of This Is Roman Catholicism, narrated by Albert Mohler, explores the unique political identity of the Roman Catholic Church, examining the relationship between the papacy, its institutional authority, and the biblical understanding of Christ's kingdom.

ECUMENISM AND CHRISTIAN UNITY

What does Christian unity mean to the Roman Catholic Church, and how has its understanding of unity changed over time? Since the Second Vatican Council, ecumenism has become an important part of Roman Catholic theology and its relationships with Protestants, Eastern Orthodox Christians, and other religious traditions.

Featuring historical footage and significant religious sites in Rome, this episode of This Is Roman Catholicism, narrated by Mark Dever, explores the development of Roman Catholic ecumenism, its theological foundations, and the questions it raises about the nature of the Church, Christian identity, and unity in Christ.