Catholicism: A Global History from the French Revolution to Pope Francis

John T. McGreevy's book explores the 250-year history of the Catholic Church, divided between reform and reaction, with the murder of priests and destruction of churches in the Terror galvanizing a conservative reaction. Missionaries expanded the Church's influence, but tensions between syncretism and Rome's authority emerged. The Second World War, decolonization, the Second Vatican Council, and clerical sexual abuse have shaped the Church, leaving Pope Francis with the challenge of charting a path for over one billion Catholics worldwide.

Format: Hardback
Length: 528 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2022
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

Distinguished historian John T. McGreevy takes us on a captivating journey through the past 250 years of the Catholic Church, navigating a tumultuous terrain between reform and reaction. In the dramatic narratives of history, we witness the Church's struggles as it grapples with the forces of change and preservation.

While anti-monarchist French clerics celebrated the revolutionary fervor of the Revolution, the Terror brought forth a conservative backlash that continues to resonate today. The murder of priests and the destruction of churches fueled a fervent resistance that sought to restore order and uphold traditional values.

At the same time, missionaries across the globe expanded the Church's influence, bringing new tensions between a culturally diverse syncretism and the ultimate authority of Rome. The aspirations of the faithful for justice, equality, and liberation challenged the politically cautious establishment.

The cataclysmic events of the Second World War, decolonization, the Second Vatican Council, and the clerical sexual abuse scandals have each reshaped the Church in profound ways. Pope Francis, facing the monumental task of guiding over one billion Catholics worldwide, has emerged as a beacon of hope and reform.

Through his leadership and vision, Pope Francis has sought to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, promoting a more inclusive and compassionate Church that resonates with the needs of a globalized world. He has emphasized the importance of dialogue, compassion, and social justice, urging Catholics to be agents of change in their communities and beyond.

The story of the Catholic Church is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit. It is a journey of growth, struggle, and transformation, driven by the unwavering faith of its followers and the guidance of its leaders. As we continue to navigate the challenges of our time, let us draw inspiration from the rich history and profound teachings of the Catholic Church, striving to build a more just and compassionate world for all.

Weight: 874g
Dimension: 168 x 242 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781324003885