The Global Vatican: An Inside Look at the Catholic Church, World Politics, and the Extraordinary Relationship between the United States and the Holy See, with a New Afterword on Pope Francis

by Francis Rooney, John Negroponte (Foreword)

From the centuries-long prejudices against Catholics in America, to the efforts of Fascism, Communism, and modern terrorist organizations to “break the cross and spill the wine,” this book brings to life the Catholic Church’s role in world history, particularly in the realm of diplomacy. Former U.S. ambassador to the Holy See Francis Rooney provides a comprehensive guide to the remarkable path the Vatican has navigated to the present day, and a first-person account of what that path looks and feels like from an American diplomat whose experience lent him the ultimate insider’s perspective. Part memoir, part historical lesson, The Global Vatican captures the braided nature of religious and political power and the complexities, battles, and future prospects for the relationship between the Holy See and the United States as both face challenges old and new. Updated now to include a view towards Pope Francis’ first trip to the United States, The Global Vatican looks forward to the revitalization of the Church in this newest global papacy.

333 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Sally Winterton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful history of the relationship of the Vatican to many world events. Personal perspective of the author adds a texture to the information. Many lessons to be learned that apply to today’s events.

[Aaron · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book on a topic that not enough people truly appreciate. The Holy See is not just the head of a religion but also acts as a Sovereign diplomatically. This is a great introduction for Americans to the role the Holy See plays in world affairs alongside the United States.

[Rita · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book makes me wonder why I don't only read non-fiction. I very much enjoyed the history of the Vatican told through the eyes of American Catholicism. I learned a lot, and plan on reading more of the books listed in the bibliography. It made me aware of the importance of 'soft power'.

I think of the pope in religious terms. I forget that the church is all over the world with educated personnel in with the citizens. It gives the pope eyes and ears to the world - a neutral trusting source for the globe.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting read but I think you need to really enjoy religious history or be Catholic to appreciate the book.

[Mills College Library]

327.45634 R7778 2013