Catholicism: A Very Short Introduction

• Well-written and accessible, avoiding the jargon that can sometimes dominate other writings about religion
• Draws on the best current scholarship available to present a fresh introduction to the largest and oldest institution in the world
• Presents a significant new interpretation of the subject
• Explains clearly and concisely where the Catholic Church comes from, what it believes and practises, and where it is heading

Readership: Students and teachers at any level in religious/theological studies, general readers with an interest in religion/theology.

Gerald O'Collins, Adjunct Professor, Australian Catholic University

Gerald O'Collins received his Ph.D. in 1968 at the University of Cambridge, where he was a research fellow at Pembroke College. From 1973-2006, he taught at the Gregorian University (Rome) where he was also dean of the theology faculty (1985-91). Alone or with others, he has published fifty books, including such works with Oxford University Press as <i>Christology</i>, <i>Jesus Our Redeemer</i> and <i>Salvation For All</i>. Authored hundreds of articles in professional and popular journals, he has lectured at many universities and colleges in the British Isles, India, New Zealand, the United States, his native Australia and elsewhere. As well as receiving over the years numerous honorary doctorates and other awards, in 2006 he was created a Companion of the General Division of the Order of Australia (AC), the highest civil honour granted through the Australian government. Currently he is a research professor of theology at St Mary's University College,Twickenham (UK).

1: From Pentecost to Christopher Columbus (AD 30-1492).
2: From Christopher Columbus to Date (1492-2008).
3: Catholics on God and the Human Condition
4: The Sacraments and the Catholic Church
5: Catholic Moral Life and Teaching
6: Characteristics of Catholicism
7: The Future of Catholicism
Timeline and Further Reading