You are my inheritance, O Lord! — Psalm 16:1

Mass Readings: Daniel 12:1-3/Hebrews 10:11-14,18/ Mark 13:24-32 

November 18, 1962 

Fifty years ago today, a letter from Cardinal Giovanni Montini was read in the churches of Milan. The future Pope Paul VI, wrote about the Second Vatican Council that had begun weeks earlier in Rome. Cardinal Montini described two basic “tendencies” among the 2,800 bishops attending from around the world. Many were concerned about maintaining Church traditions and teachings. Others wanted the Church to find new ways to share the Good News in the world. Despite differences, Cardinal Montini said, bishops were united in their love of the truth and the Church. 

Vatican II (1962-1965) was the most significant event in modern Catholic history. Opposing “tendencies” were reconciled, producing new initiatives including liturgical renewal, a re-envisioning of religious life, and a new commitment to Christian unity. 

Prayer: Holy Spirit, thank You for continuing to renew Your Church through the Second Vatican Council.