BOOKS RECEIVED: Vatican I: The Council and the Making of the Ultramontane Church

So time ago, I received a new book from a reader about Vatican I. I am not a great fan of the author, John W. O’Malley, who is a liberal Jesuit (tautology).  His book on Vatican II was sharply partisan.

Hence, I hesitated in regard to the new book

Vatican I: The Council and the Making of the Ultramontane Church

US HERE – UK HERE

However, I read a review of O’Malley’s new book at First Things by Russell Hittinger.  He put my mind at ease by saying:

O’Malley gives an accessible, even-handed overview of the council with a minimum of interpretive gloss. He excels in describing the ways in which the council initiated deep changes that still affect the everyday lives of Catholics.

I’ll be digging into it right away.

I am particularly interested right now because of how the word “ultramontane” is being thrown around rather irresponsibly. Right now, ironically, catholic libs who have never spoken well of the last couple Popes, now use “ultramontane” to bludgeon anyone who resists what Francis is up to.