Christianity · Communities & events
The Second Vatican Council reorients Catholic life
1962–1965 CE
Catholic bishops gathered at the Vatican to consider the church’s life and relationship with the contemporary world. Council documents addressed worship, scripture, religious freedom, and relations with other communities. Their implementation encouraged wider use of vernacular languages and renewed attention to lay participation.
Why it matters
The council helps explain many features of contemporary Catholic worship and its approaches to biblical reading, ecumenical dialogue, and relations with other religions.
About the date
Four council sessions, opening in October 1962 and closing in December 1965.
Vatican City
Location of the council’s sessions at St. Peter’s Basilica.
city orientation
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