Publisher's Synopsis
Opus Dei, Legionaries of Christ, Catechumenal Communities, Charismatics, Focolare, Communion and Liberation, Heralds of the Gospel, Miles Jesu, Society of St. John ....When compared to their European counterparts, Catholics in the United States and other North and South American countries appear to have little knowledge and awareness of "Catholic Cults in Our Midst". This could be due to US traditions and laws which promote freedom of expression, freedom of religious observance and strict separation of Church and State, leading to a hands-off policy. In Europe, on the other hand, some governments, as in France, Belgium, Austria and Catalonia, have official agencies to monitor suspiciously harmful groups, and legislation has been drawn up to control various forms of manipulation and coercion, with emphasis on abuse of minors and the vulnerable. Attempting to fill the vacuum, this booklet presents a smorgasbord of Catholic movements and groups which have come to the attention of researchers during the past four decades and of which the English speaking public may be only scantily aware. Interventions by Church authorities are mentioned in some cases.What is also unique about this study is that the groups in question are mostly mainstream Catholic, possessing official Church approval. They are not, per se, maverick or rebellious associations. In fact, many have sprung up as a reaction against progressive movements and are fiercely loyal to the pope, Tradition, orthodox doctrine and Catholic authorities. What do you think?
