Description
For all their power and tradition, says Catholic author and Vatican commentator Walsh, the cardinals are little studied or known outside their role in the conclave that elects a new pope. The volume illustrates the variety and evolution of functions by looking at clusters of individual cardinals arranged by such characteristics as the precursors, the dynasts, the saints, the pastors, men of war, Secretaries of State, and family men. First published in 2010 in Britain by the Canterbury Press Norwich. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
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Although cardinals have been a highly visible part of the Vatican for thirteen centuries, surprisingly little has been written about these "papal princes" of the Roman Catholic Church. They are the "nearly men" of Catholicism, who might have become pope, but in most cases didn't, and instead wielded their power behind the papal throne. In this informative and entertaining history, Catholic insider Michael Walsh traces the origins and growth of the cardinal office and tells the stories of more than sixty of the most notable men to wear the red cap. Here are kingmakers, scholars, pastors, soldiers, and statesmen; venial rogues and bona fide saints; brothers, sons, even husbands and fathers -- and those remembered simply for their faithful care of the souls entrusted to them. Read more about the book in a blog post by Walsh on EerdWord.
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