Edward F. Mannino, author and historian, will present an examination of the influence of Catholic thought and belief in America, from colonial days to the present time, at Transfiguration Church, West Collingswod, on Tuesday, Oct. 3, 7:30 p.m.
Mannino is the author, most recently, of “Faith of our Fathers: An American Catholic History,” published by WingSpan Press.
It surveys accomplishments in the fields of art, politics, law, education and public health; and highlights the contributions of notable Catholics such as Flannery O’ Connor, Thomas Merton, Al Smith, Robert Kennedy and the American nun.
“The journey of Catholics in the United States from members of a despised minority to mainstream citizens has been a long one, with the Catholic contribution changing from the social criticism of an outsider to the engaged critique of a neighbor,” Mannino said. “As [this book] will demonstrate, the Catholic presence in American society has supplied many diverse voices which have called America throughout its history to recognize and implement core spiritual and material values in the broader pluralistic society.”
The book concludes with a chapter on the portrayal of American Catholics in popular media, showing an increasing respect for their influence and beliefs.
Mannino, an attorney, has taught at the University of Pennsylvania, Chestnut Hill College and Temple University Law School.
He is a member of The Organization of American Historians, The American Society of Legal History, and The Fellowship of Catholic Scholars.
A $10 donation is requested. Proceeds benefit Discovery Ministries.