This volume analyzes the varied relationships between the Catholic church and the process of social and political change in contemporary Latin America. The author illustrates the diverse lines of contemporary Catholicism--from militancy to traditionalism and conservatism, from progressivism to fear of change--revealing the overall drift of Catholic thought and the divergent lines of its present orientations. Originally published 1971. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.