This dictionary is a rapid reference to those men and women who have, over the last two millennia, contributed to the life, history and study of Christianity in all its facets, regardless of denomination. Entries are concise and accessible but for key influential figures longer essays have been written. They range from major biblical figures to those still living. Care has been taken to avoid a too-Western orientation in the choice of those included, with in-depth coverage of Africa, India and China as well as Orthodoxy, Greek and Russian. The dictionary is designed for use in many different contexts: as a home reference for general readers interested in church history and the study of the Christian faith, and in libraries and studies for students, researchers and scholars.