"The Modern Catholic Encyclopedia combines a wealth of information with an attractive, easy-to-read format. It is an authoritative reference work for professionals, parishes, and families." "Vatican II bequeathed to us new hopes, new dreams, new challenges; but above all, it gifted us with a fresh vision of the Church as a pilgrim people. This volume is an attempt to give a succinct and contemporary view of the beliefs, practices, and history of this people. It is edited for readers in English-speaking countries, drawn together by a common language and by shared pastoral concerns and challenges. Consequently, men and women from the United States, Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, and Britain have written this work for a multinational readership. Its topics and themes have been chosen to meet the inquiries and religious curiosity of people today; therefore, emphasis is given to contemporary concerns and contemporary figures." "Over 1,400 cross-referenced entries cover a wide range of subjects. The Modern Catholic Encylopedia also includes over 250 illustrations, providing valuable visual information."--BOOK JACKET.