[GR:] In about 700 A-to-Z entries, this encyclopedia provides easy access to the theological concepts, personalities, historical events, institutions, and movements that helped to shape Catholicism and the way it is practiced today. Encyclopedia of Catholicism explores a 2,000-year-old religion that has more than a billion followers worldwide. Including issues the church currently faces, such as its inculturation in non-European societies, the status of women, and the struggles over sexual morality, abortion, euthanasia, and environmental challenges, Encyclopedia of Catholicism covers the landmark people, movements, institutions, practices, and doctrines of Roman Catholicism, from its origins to the present.<br />A comprehensive introduction, further readings, cross-references, and a chronology, in addition to photographs, a general bibliography, and a thorough index, make Encyclopedia of Catholicism an easy-to-use and essential reference for high school and college students, researchers, and general readers.