To know and to understand the Church is a sacred duty for every Catholic. The Church is not just an organization to which we belong; it is an organization of which we are a part. Loyalty to the Church is not merely one among many loyalties. It is the one great loyalty of our lives in which all other loyalties are rooted and from which all derive their life and strength. For the Church is Christ and in the Church we are united with Him and with one another as members of one Body. Hence, a burning love for the Church must always be an outstanding characteristic of a good Catholic.

THE STORY OF THE CHURCH has been written for all readers with the hope that, as they learn from the story that it tells, their love of Christ in His Church will increase and that a lifelong interest in Church History will be enkindled. As much as possible we have tried to weave our story around the great men and women who in every age have labored heroically for the spread of the Kingdom of Christ and who have won for themselves the most glorious title that can be given to a human being, the title of Saint. Christ lived in them and through them revealed to the world the power and the beauty of His Gospel.

Originally published in 1935 and reprinted many times. A famous textbook in Church history woven around the lives of the famous; influential saints who labored heroically in every age to spread the Kingdom of Christ. Black and white illustrations. A wonderful introduction to Church history for anyone–simple yet covers a lot! Includes list of popes and chronological table of Church events. 521 pages and 156 illustrations!