Who are American Catholics and what do they believe and practice? How has American Catholicism influenced and been influenced by American culture and society? This book examines the history of American Catholics from the colonial era to the present, with an emphasis on changes and challenges in the contemporary church. Chester Gillis chronicles America Catholics: where they have come from, how they have integrated into American society, and how the church has influenced their lives. He highlights key events and people, examines data on Catholics and their relationship to the church, and considers the church’s positions and actions on politics, education, and gender and sexuality in the context of its history and doctrines. This second edition of Roman Catholicism in America pays particular attention to the tumultuous past twenty years and points toward the future of the religion in the United States. It examines the unprecedented crisis of sexual abuse by priests—the legal, moral, financial, and institutional repercussions of which continue to this day—and the bishops’ role in it. Gillis also discusses the election of Pope Francis and the controversial role Catholic leadership has played in American politics.

Provides facts and information about the Catholic Church, and includes listings for Catholic associations and web site addresses.

As always, Our Sunday Visitor's Catholic Almanac is more than just the facts. It's 640 pages of facts, reports, articles, and background analyses. Yes, it's 640 pages of information you'll want to have on hand because it's the information that matters, information you can use. This is the book for the original browser. For the reader who wants to know more about the Faith, about the Church, about the world. And it's still the first choice among students, teachers, and homilists. The "always online and available" resource for media professionals.

An excellent training tool for both new and experienced staff, Fundamentals of Reference will quickly become your fundamental reference!