Catholicism is the oldest and the largest of the Christian denomination and has become one of the world's most practised faiths, and this book provides an insight into the origins and history at the root of the Catholic belief system. The first part, Catholic History, shows how eventful and complex and exciting the story of the Church has been. Beginning with the life of Jesus Christ, the key events in the Christian story are retold. Subsequent periods of consolidation and transformation are discussed, such as the foundation of Monastic orders. The second part, Catholic Doctrine, looks at the various teachings that constitute Catholic beliefs, from the Trinity and transubstantiation to the significance of the saints, and the Church's teachings are examined here. Illustrated with more than 300 photographs and fine-art paintings, this comprehensive book offers a factual account of the Church's theology, rituals and achievements.