This work first appeared in 1876. It went through several editions and printings, selling millions of copies in English and translations into major European languages. It is one of the most remarkable religious works that has appeared in any age or tongue.
In clear, simple and classic English, James Gibbons, at the time Bishop of Richmond, VA, and later, the Cardinal Archbishop of Baltimore, MD, the primary See in the United States, explains the faith of the One, Holy, Catholic an Apostolic Church, responding robustly to the arguments commonly urged against it, especially by our separated brethren—arguments that he met in the decades of crisscrossing Maryland, North Carolina and Virginia, as well as in his travels throughout the United States and Europe.
The book is undoubtedly a work of apologetics, but it is imbued with a fraternal spirit. It leaves no sting with the reader, whatever his convictions may be. As a concise explanation of the Church, her history, doctrines and mission, this work has stood the test of time, and is still considered a must-read.
This edition is based on the one of 1917, the last revised by the author, improved especially in the translations of the works of the Holy Fathers. To the author's notes, some 300 new ones are added, providing explanations and descriptions for names, places, and terms that may not be current in everyday discourse, all of which are fully referenced to Scripture and works mentioned.