THE CATHOLIC CHURCH

Throughout its 2,000 years, the Catholic Church has gone through many changes. Küng examines this history, focusing on its principal themes--the conciliar tradition, papal infallibility, Marianism, schism, and reform--framing them all against the original message mandated by the Gospel. It is a checkered history, if examined honestly, as Küng tries to do, but not unhopeful. Nor is it in any sense exhaustive, looking solely at broad outlines and major players. Robert O'Keefe's reading is clear and calmly rational, like that of a kindly professor instructing undergraduates. Modeling his presentation on Küng's attempt at balanced objectivity, O'Keefe measures each expression, careful to avoid the appearance of passion or emotion, though the subject by its very nature is a painful critique fraught with both. P.E.F.
(c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 04]