How much does the Vatican, and national Catholic Churches, influence politics and public policy debates in countries across the globe? From these cases studies--12 in all--outstanding political scientists explore and analyze the role of the Catholic Church in cross-national politics. After the editors lay out the contents of the book, theologian Kenneth Himes provides a theological conception of the role of the Catholic Church, and shows how theological change--specifically, Vatican II--can fundamentally alter the way the Church engages in politics. Then Lisa Ferrari demonstrates how the Church can be understood as an NGO and political actor. A series of case studies follows: Latin Europe (France, Spain, Italy, Portugal); the United States; Chile; Poland; Ireland and Northern Ireland; East Timor; Brazil; Rwanda; Angola; India; China; The Congo. These case studies are structured around five parts or themes: theological and political challenges; the challenge of secularization; the challenge of opposition; the challenge of justice; and the challenge of accommodation. Using these rubrics the editors place the Catholic Church in a context within particular countries, viz., the biggest challenge facing the Catholic Church in China is accommodation, that is, how the Church can find its place in a society where it is a distinct religious minority. Contributors are attentive to cross-referencing other chapters within the book, which helps with coherence and integration. Includes a helpful timeline of significant events in the life of the modern Catholic Church, along with eight tables and figures.