Catholicism: A Very Short Introduction

by Gerald O'Collins

Overview

Despite a long history of external threats and internal strife, the Roman Catholic Church remains a vast and influential presence in our modern world. But what were its origins, and how has it changed and adapted over the centuries? After Pope Benedict XVI dramatically resigned in early 2013 (the first Pope to resign since the fifteenth century), and Pope Francis was elected, many wondered what direction he would lead the Church in, and whether the Church could modernise in the face of the demands of our world.

In this Very Short Introduction, Gerald O'Collins covers the history of the Catholic Church, and considers some of the key issues facing Catholicism today, such as the catastrophic revelations about clerical child abuse, the impact of the growth of Islam, and the destruction in the Middle East of ancient Christian church communities. He also shows how Catholics are being increasingly challenged by an opposition between their traditional Christian values and rights which are endorsed by the secular world, such as the right to physician assisted suicide or same-sex marriage, and considers the future for the largest and oldest institution in the world.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780199545919
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	12/15/2008
Series:	Very Short Introductions
Pages:	160
Product dimensions:	4.30(w) x 6.80(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

Gerald O'Collins is a Research Professor of Theology at St Mary's University College, Twickenham.

Table of Contents

Preface1. From Pentecost to Christopher Columbus (AD 30-1492)2. From Christopher Columbus to date (1492-2016)3. Catholics on God and the human condition4. The sacraments and the Catholic Church5. Catholic moral life and teaching6. Characteristics of Catholicism7. The future of CatholicismFurther ReadingTimelineIndex

Editorial Reviews

"This is an excellent little book which reveals the heart of Catholicism, written by a theologian steeped in the vision of Vatican II and Pope Francis. It would be important reading not only by those who do not profess this faith but also by all those who do." - Jean Vanier, Founder of L'Arche

From the Publisher