Description
Book SynopsisChester Gillis chronicles the history of American Catholics from the colonial era to the present, with an emphasis on changes and challenges in the contemporary church. This second edition of
Roman Catholicism in America pays particular attention to the tumultuous past twenty years.
Trade ReviewBoth current and historically contextualized, this book presents an accessible, balanced, and detailed overview of this influential and complex faith community. Recommended. * Choice *
“Balance” is perhaps the word that best sums up
Roman Catholicism in America. Gillis balances the perspectives of clergy and laity, Catholics of various racial and ethnic backgrounds, official teachings and how people interpret them on the ground
. This book would be an excellent option for classes on Catholicism or religion in America more broadly. * Reading Religion *
Table of ContentsAcknowledgments
Introduction
1. Who Are American Catholics?
2. A Brief History of Catholics in America: Colonial Times to 1900
3. A Brief History of Catholics in America: 1900 to the Second Vatican Council
4. The Post–Vatican II Church in America
5. Teachings and Beliefs, Part I
6. Teachings and Beliefs, Part II
7. The Organization of the Church
8. The Church and Popular Culture
9. Challenges
10. The Francis Effect
Appendix 1: Select Profiles of American Catholics
Appendix 2: Timeline
Glossary of Terms
Notes
Selected Further Reading
Electronic Resources
Index
