THE HOLY SEE AT WORK

Curiosity about the Church -- in and out -- is high in this year in which Pope John XXIII has called for a general Council. As the date for the convening of the Second Vatican Council (October 1962) nears, this interest will be further stimulated by the press and by the wide and wild speculation which will prevail. The excitement about the Vatican Council's import for all religion is cannot help but generate a desire to know how the management of the Church actually operates. The Church has been hailed by management groups as a model of efficiency, and as a ""sinister menace"" by the unsympathetic and bigoted. Here is a book which goes into detail to describe how the Church actually functions. The descriptions are clear and full. A glossary and topical index are a special feature which will enhance its value. There was another book by the same title (published by Bruce in 1950) written by the Rev. Edward L. Mestor, C.S.C. This book is the better of the two and certainly more topical. Its appearance at such a timely moment in history will make it a valuable reference for Catholics and non-Catholics alike. The reform of the administration of the Church, which appears to be one of the central areas of concern of the bishops at the Vatican Council, may well require a supplement once the decrees issued are formalized. But for the time being it is one of the better sources for information on how the Catholic Church is governed today.