This book presents the history of the church in the form of a simple, clear, memorable and fascinating story about outstanding people, great ideas, grandiose eras and key events, thanks to which Christianity appeared, grew and entered the 21st century on a global scale. The work of Professor Bruce Shelley (1927-2010) became a classic. The Russian translation was made according to the 4th edition, verified by professor of theology and philosophy R. L. Hatchett.