"Catholic Culture in the USA" articulates how theological teachings trickle down from the Vatican and influence decisions about food, marriage, sex, community celebrations, and medical care. This study of American Catholicism summarizes a widespread contemporary tendency to adapt traditional spirituality to a world of moral diversity, to hold onto some essential portions of religious experience in an increasingly secular world. "Catholic Culture in the USA" articulates what is perhaps only implicit in other scholarship with regard to how theological teachings trickle down from the Vatican and influence decisions about food, marriage, sex, community celebrations, and medical care. John Portmann defends these Catholic dissidents and explores alternative expressions of Catholic devotion. Taking a holistical approach, the author indicates cultural change as resulting from interaction among individual rights assertions, grassroots mobilization, scholarly production and legislative innovation. Finally, the book ties contemporary Catholicism into the broad 'I'm spiritual but not religious' trend sweeping through the United States. This book will be of interest to students and scholars of Religion, Christianity, Catholic Studies, and Religion in America.

Author Biography

John Portmann is Associate Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Virginia, USA.