Publisher's Synopsis
The papacy is the greatest and longest-lasting institution in the history of the West. Paul Collins describes the evolution of the office of the papacy over the past two millennia, from St Peter to Pope John Paul II. Some recent histories of the papacy have treated it as a political or social phenomenon, this work examines the links between the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, the interpretations of his teachings by the Apostles, and the changes and developments in the nature and understanding of the papal office under successive bishops of Rome. The role and power of the holders of the papal office have been redefined many times over the centuries. Paul Collins discusses in detail the attitudes, influences and teachings of each of the Popes and sets them in an historical and cultural context, offering an illuminating account of developments and changes in Catholic teaching, theology and liturgy.
