Communion of Immigrants (2nd, 08) by Fisher, James T [Paperback (2007)]

by James T. Fisher

Communion of Immigrants (2nd, 08) by Fisher, James T [Paperback (2007)]

Genres: History, Catholic, Religion

Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Jill]

good, I liked the beginning more than the end and I didn't love some of the generalizations he made. Also, the tradcath movement deserves more than half a paragraph at the very end! I'd say the movement, though it has many flaws including not supporting popes after Paul VI, is much bigger and stronger than he says. Maybe in the past 20 years since it was published it has grown. Hmph. Also, lol that the Kennedy election was the most decisive in history--just you wait, sir!

[Melanie Weser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had to read this book for a class I am taking - but this book is good! It gives an easy-to-digest history of the Catholic Church in the US from the missions before the country was formed through to the modern day. It explains why American Catholics do some of the things they do and shows many facets of Catholic life in America. I highly suggest this book for every America Catholic.

[Nick Kinsella · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent primer on the general history of Catholics in America. I learned a ton and this will give me branching off points for further study.

[Richard Grebenc · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clocking in at 170 pages, this is a good, quick, overview of the history of Catholics in America. The author relates this history mainly by focusing on important Catholic persons who shaped Catholicism in this country, before and after it was a country, and telling their stories. Sidebars cover a variety of topics but usually can be skipped without fear of missing anything.

Decently balanced, the author does tend to focus a bit more on the progressive aspects of American Catholicism, particularly once it is well established later in the 19th century. The immigrant theme of the book, from the title, is an indicator that social justice is an important focus of this work.

If you have started here, move on to other more comprehensive titles. If you have not read this book yet, but have an interest in American Catholic history, no harm reading this but don't stop here.

[Laine · Rating 4 out of 5]

How Catholicism has grown from an suppressed and outsider's religion here in America to become the nation's single largest denomination. (from back of book)
I have just started this book (want to read so many during this short break between classes since I have 10 books for my classes to read).
It has been a good start and very easy to read as well as interesting.

[Steve · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating history of the first Catholics in america and their struggles of living in a Protestant culture.

[Mac]

Short, very accessible, and interesting. Fisher writes a left-leaning Catholic and offers a nice concise history of Catholicism in America.