A History of the Popes

From Peter to the Present

De: John W. O'Malley SJ

Narrado por: Jeff Harding

Bloomsbury presents A History of the Popes: From Peter to the Present by John W. O'Malley, SJ read by Jeff Harding

A History of the Popes tells the story of the oldest living institution in the Western world—the papacy. From its origins in Saint Peter, Jesus' chief disciple, through Pope Benedict XVI today, the popes have been key players in virtually all of the great dramas of the western world in the last two thousand years. Acclaimed church historian John W. O'Malley's engaging narrative examines the 265 individuals who have claimed to be Peter's successors. Rather than describe each pope one by one, the book focuses on the popes that shaped pivotal moments in both church and world history. The author does not shy away from controversies in the church, and includes legends like Pope Joan and a comprehensive list of popes and antipopes to help readers get a full picture of the papacy.

This simultaneously reverent yet critical book will appeal to readers interested in both religion and history as it chronicles the saints and sinners who have led the Roman Catholic Church over the past 2000 years. The author draws from his popular audio CD lecture series on the topic, 2,000 Years of Papal History, available through Now You Know Media (nowyouknowmedia.com).

©2025 John W. O'Malley, SJ (P)2025 Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

The unvarnished truth about a human institution

Great recounting of the papacy and the men who were bishops of Rome. A motley assortment, but who in general tried to do the job as they saw it. A great lease to understand the history of the preceding 2000 years