Vatican II A Very Short Introduction

Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, InspiringThe Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), or Vatican II, is arguably the most significant event in the life of the Catholic Church since the Reformation. The Council initiated, intentionally or not, profound changes not simply within Catholic theology, but in the religious, social, and moral lives of the world’s billion Catholics. It also reconfigured, intellectually and practically, the Church’s engagements with those outside of it – most obviously with regard to other religions.The sixteen documents formally issued by Vatican II constitute some of the most influential writings of the whole twentieth century. Debates over their correct interpretation and authority are constant, but they remain an indispensable point-of-reference for all areas of Catholic life, from liturgy and sacraments to the Church’s vast network of charitable and educational endeavours the world over.In this Very Short Introduction, Shaun Blanchard and Stephen Bullivant present the backstory to this event. Vatican II is explored in light of the wider history of the Catholic Church and placed in the tumultuous context of the 1960s. It distils the research on Vatican II, employing the first-hand accounts of participants and observers, and the official proceedings of the Council to paint a rich picture of one of the most important events of the last century.The eBook offers a mobile experience and convenient access along with functionality tools, and navigation features: Find the eBook on VitalSource.FeaturesA fresh account of the event of Vatican II, the documents it produced, and its roots and receptionPays substantial attention to the diversity of thought and background at the CouncilRooted in recent scholarship on the Council, this is an accessible introduction to Vatican II that is perfect for an undergraduate or graduate classroomPart of the Very Short Introductions series – over ten million copies sold worldwideABOUT THE SERIESThe Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable. —- ISBN: 9780198864813 | ISBN10: 0198864817 | ISBN-13: 978-0198864813