Investigating Vatican II

Investigating Vatican II is a collection of Fr. Jared Wicks recent articles on Vatican II, and presents the Second Vatican Council as an event to which theologians contributed in major ways and from which Catholic theology can gain enormous insights. Taken as a whole, the articles take the reader into the theological dynamics of Vatican II at key moments in the Councils historical unfolding. Wicks promotes a contemporary re-reception of Vatican IIs theologically profound documents, especially as they featured Gods incarnate and saving Word, laid down principles of Catholic ecumenical engagement, and articulated the churchs turn to the modern world with a new face of respect and dedication to service. From the original motivations of Pope John XXIII in convoking the Council, Investigating Vatican II goes on to highlight the profound insights offered by theologians who served behind the scenes as Council experts. In its chapters, the book moves through the Councils working periods, drawing on the published and non-published records, with attention to the Councils dramas, crises, and breakthroughs. It brings to light the bases of Pope Franciss call for synodality in a listening church, while highlighting Vatican IIs mandate to all of prayerful biblical reading, for fostering a vibrant joy in the Gospel.