ABSTRACT

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.

chapter |5 pages

Introduction

chapter 1|20 pages

The Church, Catholic and Roman

chapter 2|9 pages

What Do Catholics Believe?

chapter 3|23 pages

Authority

chapter 4|21 pages

People

chapter 5|14 pages

Structures

chapter 6|18 pages

The Vatican

chapter 7|24 pages

The Liturgy

chapter 8|26 pages

Devotional Life

chapter 9|17 pages

The Church In Society

chapter 10|13 pages

Unfinished Business