Despite a long history of external threats and internal strife, the Roman Catholic Church remains a vast and influential presence in our modern world. But what were its origins, and how has it changed and adapted over the centuries? After Pope Benedict XVI dramatically resigned in early 2013 (the first Pope to resign since the fifteenth century), and Pope Francis was elected, many wondered what direction he would lead the Church in, and whether

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It is one of the most ancient, arcane, and, to some, embarrassing rites of the Roman Catholic Church. Yet the demand for exorcism--and trained exorcists--is booming. Foreign correspondent Tracy Wilkinson reveals how "devil detox" has become an industry, complete with international conventions and plenty of controversy. We meet Father Amorth, who has led a campaign to reestablish exorcism as a respected rite. Based on extensive interviews with Amorth,...

"George Weigel, a leading Catholic intellectual, argues that the humanist teachings of the highly controversial Second Vatican Council are essential to the future of the Catholic church"--

Summarizes the basic beliefs, practices, rituals, teachings, and traditions of Catholicism.

As the council is commemorated on its 50th anniversary, readers can turn to these source materials to better understand the Church's positions on its relationship with the secular world and other religions, human rights, and other still highly relevant issues.