American Catholics

A History

By: Leslie Woodcock Tentler

Narrated by: Pam Ward

A sweeping history of American Catholicism from the arrival of the first Spanish missionaries to the present

This comprehensive survey of Catholic history in what became the United States spans nearly 500 years, from the arrival of the first Spanish missionaries to the present. Distinguished historian Leslie Tentler explores lay religious practice and the impact of clergy on Catholic life and culture as she seeks to answer the question, What did it mean to be a "good Catholic" at particular times and in particular places?

In its focus on Catholics' participation in American politics and Catholic intellectual life, this book includes in-depth discussions of Catholics, race, and the Civil War; Catholics and public life in the 20th century; and Catholic education and intellectual life.

Shedding light on topics of recent interest such as the role of Catholic women in parish and community life, Catholic reproductive ethics regarding birth control, and the Catholic church sex abuse crisis, this engaging history provides an up-to-date account of the history of American Catholicism.

©2020 Yale University (P)2020 eChristian

An interesting history of the US Catholic Church

I enjoyed listening to the various episodes. The narrator's pronunciation of technical ecclesiastical words was off in some instances.

Great female perspective!

A wonderful summary of Catholics on the North American continent from a female perspective! The reader likes to attempt some different accents from time to time though lol

Disappointing

The narrator was over dramatic at times. Pronunciation of some Catholic terms was off. I get it. Some facts were off. Charleston SC was founded in 1670 not 1760. And in discussing St Kateri Tekakwitha, not once was she referred to as "Kateri" - only Katherine. Overall, a disappointing listen unfortunately.

Good Book! Great Subject!

And terrible reader! This narrator inflicts pain, blasting the ears on syllables chosen for no apparent reason. I loved hearing how many brave, lonely, committed people traveled, prayed and preached around the world down thru the centuries to spread this beautiful faith in my country. But if anybody ever put Pam Ward's reading thru sound equipment, they would realize she qualifies for torture! The needle would jump and lie way down about every fifth syllable. The listener is absolutely BLASTED by this harsh female voice. Oh, sure she sounds authoritative, but I did not agree to suffer! I'm bailing with half an hour to go. It was interesting to hear about my own time and realize that the church I know was born about the year I converted -- 1972. Audible should fire Pam Ward and pay me for putting up with this difficult recordingt!