The Oxford Handbook of Vatican II

The Oxford Handbook of Vatican II is a comprehensive resource that provides insights and reflections on various aspects of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), a significant religious event of the 20th century. It explores the historical context, key teachings, and neglected aspects of the council, including the forgotten papal speeches, the contributions of women, and the non-reception among Catholic traditionalists. The Handbook also examines the council's impact on other Christian churches and the search for Christian unity. Chapters focusing on different regions reflect on the council's interpretation and influence in diverse cultural contexts, making it a valuable guide for understanding and interpreting the council's teachings and their ongoing relevance in the 21st century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 800 pages
Publication date: 20 July 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The Oxford Handbook of Vatican II is a comprehensive and insightful resource that delves into numerous facets of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), a pivotal religious event of the 20th century. The Handbook's chapters provide an introduction to the historical backdrop and remarkable characteristics of the conciliar event, while also exploring its core teachings on Scripture and Tradition, the Church, Liturgy, Religious Liberty, Ecumenism, Interreligious Dialogue, Church-World Relations, and Mission. Special attention is given to overlooked aspects of the council, such as the forgotten papal speeches that outline its fundamental orientation and serve as a guide for interpretation. The presence and contributions of women are also explored, highlighting their significant roles and achievements. Furthermore, the Handbook examines the non-reception of the council among Catholic traditionalists, shedding light on their perspectives and concerns.

Ecumenical scholars reflect on the profound impact of Vatican II on other Christian churches and the pursuit of Christian unity. They analyze Catholic dialogue with other religious traditions, highlighting the opportunities for mutual understanding and collaboration. By surveying the diverse receptions of the council across different regions, such as Asia, Africa, Latin America, North America, Oceania, and Europe, the Handbook provides valuable insights into the interpretation and influence of the council's teachings in diverse cultural contexts.

As a comprehensive guide to one of the most significant events and bodies of Catholic teaching since the Protestant Reformation and the Council of Trent in the 16th century, the Oxford Handbook of Vatican II offers invaluable insights into the interpretation of the council's teachings and their ongoing relevance in shaping the life of the Church in the 21st century. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, clergy, and laypersons alike, facilitating a deeper understanding of the council's legacy and its profound impact on the Catholic Church and the broader Christian community.

Weight: 1508g
Dimension: 254 x 180 x 46 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198813903