Global Catholicism critically examines and analyses the emerging patterns and trends of Catholicism around the world. The book addresses the current battles over politics, authority, sexuality, and liturgy, including: the global sexual abuse scandal; the loss of members to the exploding Pentecostal and Neo-Pentecostal movements; the shortage of priests, and a variety of issues in more secular cultures. Most importantly, it examines the impact of Vatican II and offers insights on the challenge facing the church in the twenty-first century. Book jacket.