Vatican II Guides plus Legacy of Two Popes

Vatican II is known to every Catholic, at least by name, but what do we really know about this historic time in the Catholic Church? What happened at the council? Why did it take place? And most importantly, what is the impact of the Second Vatican Council on the People of the Church today?

In Vatican II: Its Impact on You, Peter A. Huff answers these questions and more in a brief, easy-to-read overview of the event that has had the greatest impact on the Catholic experience today. Vatican II, the brainchild of Blessed Pope John XXIII, spanned from 1962 to 1965, attracted 2,500 bishops to Vatican City, and issued extraordinary reforms and directives that still define what it means to be Catholic in the modern world. Huff analyzes Vatican II's sources, context, decisions, and the ongoing impact of this council which renewed Catholicism.

At the turn of this century, Pope John Paul II called for a new season of engaging the sixteen documents of Vatican II. Although these documents are part of the Church's official teaching, reading the constitutions, degrees, and declarations can be daunting, especially for the average Catholic.

In The Voice of Vatican II, Peter A. Huff uses the cathedral as metaphor to help readers relate the documents to their experience today. Beginning at the altar with the Council's first document, Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, he explores each in turn, explaining their significance today. "The pilgrim departs a great cathedral rejuvenated," writes Huff. "What awaits the sincere reader of Vatican II texts is a life-changing encounter with the living Church and the Church's living Lord.

This collection includes both Vatican II guides and the companion pamphlet, John XXIII and John Paul II: Building the Legacy of Vatican II. In calling Vatican II and implementing its teachings and spirit, Pope St. John XXIII and Pope St. John Paul II possibly did more for the modern Church than anyone else. This pamphlet briefly tells the histories, themes, and accomplishments of these men and the council--for the inspiration of all.