"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. abmassador 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." -- book jacket