Book excerpt: A charming and powerful example of how a great mass of material can be presented in an interesting and accurate manner. . . An excellent book for personal reading but. . . the perfect text for religion courses, C.C.D. programs, and adult education. - Spirituality Today [A] unique, people-oriented approach to the history of the Roman Catholic church. . . An ambitious, enlightening study not strictly for Catholics and suitable both for teaching and individual research. - Booklist A Catholic would welcome [it] as a gift. - Andrew M. Greeley, American Bookseller A work important both for itself and for the method it uses. . . Cunningham manages to convey a sweep of Catholic history and tradition that is remarkable. . . [it] may well become a classic in its own right. - Best Sellers An attractive text for an introductory course on Catholicism for college undergraduates, something many of us have been looking for in vain in recent years. -Cross Currents In a novel and engaging way, it presents a rather comprehensive picture of the many-faceted Roman Catholic tradition. Emphasis is on the spiritual rather than on the political or doctrinal. . . A list of 'Readings and Trajectories' at the end of each chapter. . . enhances the value of the book. - The Living Light A good book, written out of classroom experience, waiting to be taken back into the classroom. - New Catholic World