Dr. Christopher M. Bellitto, Ph.D., is an award-winning historian and Professor of History at Kean University in New Jersey. He received a Ph.D. in History from Fordham University. He is the author of ten books and the co-editor of six others; his writing has been honored by the American Catholic Historical Association and the Catholic Press Association. A frequent public speaker and media commentator on Church history and contemporary Catholicism, he has appeared on the History and Travel channels, CNN, MSNBC, NPR, and other radio and television stations. He has received a National Endowment for the Humanities grant and is on the Fulbright Specialist Roster.Dr. Bellitto’s books include Ageless Wisdom: Lifetime Lessons from the Bible (Paulist Press, 2016), 101 Questions and Answers on Popes and the Papacy (Paulist Press, 2008), The Living Church and Church History 101 (Liguori Publications, 2011, 2008), and the companion volumes Renewing Christianity: A History of Church Reform from Day One to Vatican II and The General Councils: A History of the 21 Church Councils from Nicaea to Vatican II (Paulist Press, 2001-2002). His articles have appeared in Catholic Historical Review, Church History, Revue d’histoire ecclésiastique, Cristianesimo nella storia, America, Commonweal, U.S. Catholic, and other journals and magazines. Dr. Bellitto also serves as series Editor-in-Chief of Brill’s Companions to the Christian Tradition.
Praise for Christopher Bellitto
“Christopher Bellitto is one of the most compelling and accessible Church historians working today. He brings together the skills of a journalist with scholar’s expertise.”
– Dr. C. Colt Anderson, Dean, Fordham University“One discovers in Professor Bellitto that all too rare combination of scholarly expertise and exquisite communicator. His lectures weave humor with erudition, prophetic challenge with passion for the people of God, and historical objectivity with deep care for the Church.”
– Dr. Elena Procario-Foley, Iona College“Dynamic and accessible, Professor Christopher Bellitto breathes life into Church history in ways that resonate with the experiences of contemporary audiences. Weaving solid scholarship with engaging stories he brings fresh perspectives to the events and people that influence the rich diversity of the Roman Catholic tradition.”
– Dr. Carmen Nanko-Fernández, Catholic Theological Union“Prof. Christopher Bellitto is an outstanding scholar who is widely admired for his great clarity as well as for the depth and breadth of his knowledge. Prof. Bellitto is an excellent guide in all matters of church history, and has a special gift for presenting complex realities in a compelling and clear manner.”
– Mary Doak, University of San Diego“Master teacher, expert scholar, and superb communicator, Bellitto presents exquisitely masterful interpretations of the significance of the various eras of Church history that enlighten and delight. Media commentator on all things papal and episcopal, Bellitto captures the importance of the meaning of the past for the Church in the contemporary moment.”
– Elena Procario-Foley, Iona College“Prof. Bellitto is one of the best contemporary historians of Christian history. His profound knowledge of the subject matter, decades of teaching, eloquent and effective communication skills, make his work an indispensable reference for anyone interested in the thousand year-old Christian story.”
– Ines Angeli Murzaku Ph.D., Seton Hall University
Mark –
One of the best
Doctor Bellito does a great job of making this study of the reformations a compelling interesting journey into Church history. I enjoyed each session very much, and will listen to this program again.
Kingdom Mystic –
A Good Look Reformation from eyes of Catholic Church
The history prior to the reformation and the Catholic Church are great! However, more details should have been given on the differences of views between Catholic Church and that of Luther and Calvin. I found the summary of Protestant history with Zwingli, Luther, Calvin, and Knox lacking and very little said on the anabaptists upsetting. That being does satisfy as an introductory course to the Catholic response to the Reformation.
Ernest –
Extremely informative!
Christopher Bellitto’s course on “the reformations” is an extremely informative, bias-free examination of reform and renewal efforts in the Catholic Church, as well as an equally fair and balanced discussion of accompanying Protestant movements. His delivery is crisp and engaging, and the companion graphics–though limited–are helpful.
Fred –
Great detail
Great detail – enough to keep you intent, but not overwhelming. Great presentation, content.
Joe P., PA –
Winter Survey: January 2017
The course clearly, yet concisely tackles the complex history of the Reformations. It nicely describes the situation prior to the onset of the Reformation, impartially presents Martin Luther, as well as other characters involved. Basically it is history the way history should be taught.
Larry L., IA –
Spring Survey: April 2017
Christopher Bellitto is a brilliant, engaging lecturer, who is able to stress major movements and events in an engaging, balanced manner. His lectures on the Reformations and Medieval History in Western Europe are among the fairest and most concise I have been privileged to view.
Larry L., IA –
Winter Survey: January 2017
The Reformations was a great course!! Covered different aspects of the Reformation from both a Catholic, and a non- Catholic viewpoint. Lots of information. Lesson on King Henry VIII seemed general though, not in depth. But what can be said in just a 25 min lesson about that whole situation historically? Will watch this course again and again. The other courses I got, not so much.
Ernie Hines, Lincoln, NE, USA –
Spring Survey: April 2017
Appreciated presenters approach and knowledge of the subject along with his ability to connect the subject and issues to today.
Anonymous –
Spring Survey: April 2017
Appreciated presenters approach and knowledge of the subject along with his ability to connect the subject and issues to today.
Larry L., IA –
Spring Survey: April 2017
The speaker really knew what he was talking about, and was excited about telling the story. He told both sides without taking sides. Great course!!
Sister James G., O.S.F., PA –
Summer Survey: July 2017
The last course I purchased was on the Reformation. It is a CD and told me so much about the subject. that I have read so many books about the Reformation and none ever gave me the details and brought the topic together so well. This is one reason that I continue to be a customer of Now You Know Media. Usually, I purchase DVD’s and I have never been disappointed in any of them.
Ry –
It is a very broad overview of the Reformation that pieces together a complex event.
The course is well presented. I appreciated the historical scope. It provided an enlightening build up to the events of the various reformations.