: 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.
What makes The Global Vatican stand out is how it blends erudite historical analysis with warm, personal anecdotes. Rooney takes readers behind the scenes of the "Byzantine bureaucracy" of the Vatican, offering glimpses into his interactions with high-ranking officials and the Pope himself.
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.
: The book details how the Vatican navigated the challenges of the 20th century, from resisting Fascism and Communism to addressing modern global conflicts.
: 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
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.