The study of church history invites us to gain insight and perspective not only into the past, but also into the present of the Church, indeed, into the present of ourselves. Inspired by Meriol Trevor, a church historian noted for evenhandedness and balance, Owen Cummings explores aspects of the Catholic tradition in the nineteenth century: popes, theologians, saints, movements, and Vatican Council I.
By calling on the communal witness of the nineteenth century, it is hoped that readers will be enriched not only in terms of knowledge of church history, but also in terms of ecclesial balance and perspective today, so as to enter into a deeper commitment to Christ the Lord in this Church that we love.