Founded in Austria in 1829 to give help to missions in America; originated in the exertions of Father John Frederic Reze, vicar general of Bishop Fenwick of Cincinnati, and sent by him to Europe to recruit priests. The society, which still exists, was named in honor of Leopoldina, Empress of Brazil, daughter of Francis I of Austria. Pope Leo XII gave it his approval.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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