Justin Fatica, a dynamic twenty-nine-year-old, is spreading the Catholic faith with an intense, in-your-face approach that eclipses that of even the most passionate preachers of any denomination. The subject of a recent HBO documentary, Fatica is known for his electric presence in front of groups large and small, showing an emotional range from joy to anger, calmness to fervent pleas—all meant to inspire his audience to break free from whatever burdens they may have. In an era where Catholic-church attendance is waning, the success of Justin’s exploding Hard as Nails ministries is a welcome, if sometimes controversial, means of reaching the spiritually hungry.

Fatica offers a message of hope for all ages, and especially for the growing number of youth who feel displaced and lost. While some are just getting used to Justin Fatica’s style, there is little doubt that this dynamic, charismatic preacher will continue to draw attention for his radical and passionate ways of spreading the gospel.