Who are American Catholics and what do they believe and practice? What is distinctive about the expression of Catholicism in America and how have Catholics influenced and been influenced by American culture and society? What different types of Catholics make up the church today? Chester Gillis offers a cogent survey of U.S. Catholic history; emphasizing the post–Vatican II era; and goes on to explore the various roles and missions of the church in education; health care; charity; and more. One of the themes running through the narrative is the persistent tension between Rome and the American church; which is shaped by a thoroughly modern; dynamic; and secular culture. Also discussed is the changing role of authority and how Catholic notions of authority have changed over the past forty years and why.
#1923828 in Books Rozehnal Robert 2009-10-20 2009-09-01Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x .65 x 6.00l; .94 #File Name: 0230618960275 pagesIslamic Sufism Unbound Politics and Piety in Twenty First Century Pakistan
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Contemporary Islamic PakistanBy R RiversThe author clearly did a thorough study of the history of Sufism and then proceeded to present a comprehensive review of Sufism in contemporary Pakistan. He treated the Sufis with great respect and understanding in his many personal interviews. A must read for anyone wanting to be informed of Islam in present day Pakistan.6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. original and exciting window on Sufi practice and Pakistani politicsBy student of lifeRozehnal's book is a compelling account of a 20th century Sufi order. He takes the reader behind the scenes; showing how personalities; histories; and politics interweave with rituals and belief structures that have been passed down from master to disciple for many generations. This is an essential read for anyone interested in Sufi practice or the role of Sufism in Pakistani politics. The book also provides in depth profiles of three modern Sufi masters in the Chishti Sabiri order; each with a different emphasis in his teachings and philosophy and very different personalities - including one British man who converted to Islam and rose through the spiritual ranks to the level of a teaching shaikh. Rozehnal deepens the book with rich ethnographic detail from many interviews with current disciples; bringing to life the experience of being a Sufi in modern Pakistan.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. A Model of ScholarshipBy Brian PinaireThis is the best book I have read on Sufism. Rozehnal is to be applauded for wading into controversial and dangerous waters and producing a first-rate study that should serve as a model for scholars in a variety of fields. According to the biographical information given; he teaches in a Department of Religious Studies; but he is clearly just as fluent in politics; anthropology; and history. This is an absolute "must read" for anyone interested in this region.
