Power and the Papacy: The People and Politics Behind the Doctrine of Infallibility

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Triumph, 1997 - Religion - 232 pages
The doctrine of infallibility, formulated at the First Vatican Council in 1870, is a concept that has intrigued - & even perplexed - Catholics & non-Catholics throughout its history. This popular work traces the development of infallibility, how it is understood today, problems & questions it has engendered, & what may be its future. At the core, this is a story of religious authority & the problems of shifting understandings in the midst of changing cultures. McClory, a distinguished journalist & former Roman Catholic priest, has written a sweeping account not only of the evolution of a difficult doctrine but of the key players - both on & off the Vatican stage - who have been pivotal in the process. His is a frank & even-handed presentation of the issues that puts emphasis on people rather than on abstract assertions & declarations. A thoroughly fascinating & well-researched contribution to a subject of timeless interest, Power & the Papacy is sure to generate much attention as the Church enters the 21st century amid continuing struggles & perplexities regarding papal authority.

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Contents

Chapter II
17
The Fall and Rise of Papal Power
29
Challenges From Within and Without
39
Copyright

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