Catholic Encyclopedia

The Catholic Encyclopedia is a comprehensive reference work on the teachings, history, and practices of the Catholic Church. It was originally published in 15 volumes between 1907 and 1914 by the Robert Appleton Company in New York. The encyclopedia was designed to provide a scholarly and authoritative resource for both Catholics and non-Catholics interested in the Catholic faith.

History

The Catholic Encyclopedia was conceived in the early 20th century as a response to the need for a comprehensive and reliable source of information on Catholic doctrine and history. The project was initiated by Charles G. Herbermann, Edward A. Pace, and Conde B. Pallen, who served as the editors-in-chief. The work was supported by the Catholic Church and involved contributions from numerous scholars and theologians.

Content

The encyclopedia covers a wide range of topics related to Catholicism, including theology, philosophy, history, liturgy, and biography. It includes entries on important figures in the Church, such as Saint Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, and Pope Leo XIII. The encyclopedia also addresses various heresies, councils, and religious orders.

Significance

The Catholic Encyclopedia is considered a significant work in the field of religious studies and has been used as a reference by scholars, clergy, and laypeople. It provides a historical snapshot of Catholic thought and practice in the early 20th century and remains a valuable resource for understanding the development of Catholic doctrine.

Online Version

In recent years, the Catholic Encyclopedia has been digitized and made available online, allowing for greater accessibility. The online version includes the original text as well as updates and revisions to reflect contemporary scholarship.

Also see

• Catholic Church
• Pope
• Vatican City
• Ecumenical Council
• Canon Law