Roman Catholicism The Basics [Paperback]

From the most basic terms to the structures and practices of the Church, this book offers a plain-speaking introduction to Roman Catholicism. Now in a second edition, it contains new sections on relations with other faiths, coverage of recent controversies in the Church and an expanded section on social teaching. It covers:

• Roman Catholic beliefs and traditions
• practices and devotional life  rituals, prayer, mass
• Church structures and authorities  from Vatican to parish church
• Church hierarchies and people  from bishops to the laity
• the role of the Church in society.

With a glossary, further reading sections and reference to official documents of the Church, this is the perfect guide for students approaching the study of Roman Catholicism for the first time.

Introduction

1. The Church -  Catholic and Roman

2. What do Catholics believe?

3. Authority

4. People

5. Structures

6. The Vatican

7. The Liturgy

8. Devotional Life

9. The Church in Society

10. Unfinished Business

Appendix: The history of the Papacy

Glossary

Bibliography

Index

Michael Walsh is a learned, lucid and insightful guide to grasping the wonders and complexities of Roman Catholicism. He is thoughtfully aware of critical issues faced by the tradition. It would be difficult to find a better short introductory book. This new edition is to be welcomed.

Gavin D'Costa, University of Bristol, UK

Walshs book is practical, nuanced, and easy to read. He writes with a good sense for history which enables him to contextualize his narrative, explaining how Roman Catholicsl£K