The Global Vatican : An Inside Look At The Cath... May 2026

: Unlike traditional states, the Vatican’s influence is non-territorial, based instead on moral authority and a network that touches 18% of the global population.

He moves from the history of John Carroll, the first Catholic bishop in America, to his own modern-day diplomatic efforts, showing how the Church’s role has evolved from a limited European focus to a truly global perspective. Looking Toward the Future Go to product viewer dialog for this item. The global Vatican : an inside look at the Cath...

The Global Vatican: An Inside Look at the Catholic Church, World Politics, and the Extraordinary Relationship Between the United States and the Holy See : Unlike traditional states, the Vatican’s influence is

: Rooney argues that despite their differences, there is a fundamental "symmetry of values" between American ideals and the Holy See’s social mission. Part Memoir, Part History Lesson The Global Vatican: An Inside Look at the

One of the most compelling aspects of Rooney’s work is his historical analysis of the often-fraught relationship between the United States and the Vatican. For over 200 years, mutual suspicion—rooted in centuries-long anti-Catholic prejudice in America—prevented formal diplomatic ties. It wasn't until 1984, under President Ronald Reagan, that the U.S. finally established an official diplomatic mission to the Holy See.

Rooney masterfully explains why this relationship is more than just a symbolic gesture:

: The book details how the Vatican navigated the challenges of the 20th century, from resisting Fascism and Communism to addressing modern global conflicts.