What Happened at Vatican II
by John W. O'Malley
ISBN: 9780674031692
$29.95 Hardcover
Belknap Press

During four years in session, Vatican Council II held television audiences rapt with its magnificently choreographed public ceremonies, while its debates generated front-page news on a near-weekly basis. As the world approaches the 50th anniversary of the calling of the council, this work reveals the spirit of Vatican II--the most important religious event of the 20th century.

What Happened at Vatican II captures the drama of the council, depicting the characters involved and their clashes with one another. The book also offers a new set of interpretive categories for understanding the council’s dynamics--categories that move beyond the “progressive” and “conservative” labels.