William Stephens Kress

William Stephens Kress (1864–1939) was a notable Catholic layman, author, and publisher in the early 20th century, renowned for his efforts to promote and defend the Catholic faith through his writings and publications. Based in the United States, Kress was deeply involved in Catholic apologetics and catechesis, working tirelessly to provide resources that explained and defended the Church’s teachings.

Kress is best known for his works such as The Faith of Our Fathers Made Plain and Catholic Belief Briefly Explained. These writings were concise, accessible, and designed for a wide audience, particularly targeting those curious about or skeptical of the Catholic faith. His works were marked by clarity, doctrinal soundness, and a practical approach to addressing common questions and misconceptions about Catholicism.

In addition to his writing, Kress operated a publishing house that specialized in Catholic books and pamphlets, contributing significantly to the spread of Catholic literature in the United States. His mission was to make Catholic teachings readily available to both Catholics and non-Catholics in an era when misunderstandings and anti-Catholic sentiment were prevalent.

William Stephens Kress’s legacy lies in his dedication to spreading the truths of the Catholic faith through accessible and persuasive apologetics, making him an important figure in the evangelization efforts of his time. His work continues to inspire those committed to sharing and defending the faith.