Reclaiming Vatican II: What It (Really) Said, What It Means, and How It Calls Us to Renew the Church by Blake Britton

 I just discovered that I missed posting a review of this excellent book when I first read it. So here we go!

This book does just what it says on the subtitle. With genuine understanding of what motivates both sides, Britton clarifies why there are misconceptions (and misapplications) of Vatican II both by liberals and conservatives. That is no small feat. By looking at why the council was so misunderstood, we see that both liberal and conservative groups are responding to "the paracouncil."

The paracouncil resulted from theologians (who may not have even been at the council), the media and turbulent, secular influences. These combined to skew the intentions of the Vatican II council into something that is loosely referred to as "the spirit of Vatican II." I'd heard the phrase but never paid enough attention to wonder why it was used. After all, if someone said "the spirit of the Bible" we'd go take a good long look at the Bible to see what it really said. No one was doing that with the Vatican II documents. I realized that's like saying "it's the vibe of the thing" which is always dangerous when dealing with the faith. The paracouncil is the reason for the iffy implementation I've noticed in a lot of parishes.

Britton walks us through the reason for the council and the major documents. As he does, we get context from ancient and modern times, what was (and wasn't) included, and thoughtful ways to help implement the true teachings of Vatican II in parishes. Along the way, he shares personal experiences as a parish priest which bring it all to life.

I was left with a profound respect for the council who so skillfully balanced Catholic tradition with the need to renew the practices of the Church so that the people have passion and vigor in their faith. I was left inspired by the council's goals and the examples of instituting proper practice in modern parishes. I'm lucky enough to worship in a beautiful church that has a profound respect for the liturgy, including the music. Here are some of the things that Vatican II added, some of which I knew and some of which I didn't. All of these are implemented in our parish and which I'm profoundly grateful for!

• Revised liturgical calendar which cycles through the gospels in a three year period on Sundays and two-years for daily Mass while including lots and lots of Old Testament scripture too.
• Encouraging Bible reading and study. This has led to a lot of great study programs which our parish uses as well as many books I use myself.
• We should all be saints. The idea that the laypeople are also called to saintly holiness.
• Making sure there is a homily with the Mass. (Who knew that wasn't always a thing? I didn't!)
• The four stages of OCIA (this is the program non-Catholics go through to enter the Church). When I converted, this was a source of unexpected spiritual growth and that was 20 years ago. I thought it always was like that.
• The Divine Office (Liturgy of the Hours) prayed by the laity. Another thing that I didn't know. I have only recently begun dipping my toes in this practice but am grateful for it.

Reclaiming Vatican II is simply excellent. It is inspirational, informative, and easy to read and understand. All Catholics should read this book.

Scott and I discussed this on A Good Story is Hard to Find, episode 294.

Also recommended: 

The Vatican II Collection by Bishop Robert Barron

The text of the four main council documents supplemented by explanatory commentary from Bishop Robert Barron and Popes John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis. I read the two main council documents soon after I converted after hearing many confusing remarks about Vatican II — which I hadn't heard of. Reading the online publications at the Vatican website showed me that these were highly orthodox, inspirational documents. I admit haven't read these particular books yet ... but someday!