Roland Hill (1920–2014)

4454. Lord Acton, by Roland Hill (read 28 Jun 2008) This well researched biography is not strictly chronological, and suffers because of that, but it tells well the amazing story of Lord Acton's life (born in Naples 10 Jan 1834, died in Bavaria 20 June 1902). The way he played a major role at Vatican I, even tho merely a layman, was astonishing. He was on the side of the opponents of Pius IX and was foredoomed to lose, but one must admire the devotion he gave to his beliefs--and his determination to hold fast to his Faith despite the power of his opponents. One wishes there had been more attention to the present view of the questions raised by the issues at the Council, and how Vatican II differed in its orientation from Vatican I. But that I suppose is the subject for a different study. Anyone interested in the fascinating subject of 19rh century Catholicism will be unable to not be fascinated by this book's account of Acton and his efforts against absolute power. Well worth reading.… (altro)