Roman Catholicism: The Basics

From the basic ideas and terms, to its structures and practices, this book offers a plain-speaking introduction to Roman Catholicism. 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 an appendix on the history of the Papacy, this is the perfect guide for anyone wanting to understand more about Roman Catholicism.

Michael Walsh has retired recently as Librarian of Heythrop College, University of London. He now edits the Heythrop Journal. A former Jesuit, he has written on many aspects of the history of Christianity, and especially on the contemporary Church.