What caused Pope John XXIII to call bishops from around the world to Rome for an ecumenical summit in 1962? Explore the political, scientific, and social events that sparked Vatican II — and set the greatest event in modern Church history into motion. With commentary from theologians Dr. Richard Gaillardetz, Msgr. John Strynkowski, and Rev. James Massa. 

As Pope John XXIII declares it is time to "throw open the windows of the Church and let the Spirit blow through," how will the Council apply chanages to the Liturgy? Top theologians Dr. Richard Gaillardetz, Msgr, John Strynkowski, Rev. James Massa, and Rev. Robert Imbelli offer commentary. Other interviews include art historian Prof. Elizabeth Lev, and James Hansen.

"Lumen Gentium" -- how did these radical words resound in the face of the lifestyle shift of the 1960s? Top theologians Richard Gaillardetz, Msgr, John Strynkowski, Rev. James Massa, Sr. Sara Butler, Rev. Robert Imbelli, and Rev. Cuong Pham offer commentary.

As the Bishops turn their attention to Holy Scripture and the 2000 year old tradition of the Church, how will the "Word of God" come to shape the teachings that will emerge from Vatican II? In-depth interviews with theologians Dr. Richard Gaillardetz, Msgr, John Strynkowski, Rev. James Massa, Rev. John Cush, Msgr. Francis Kelly, and Prof. Massimo Faggioli.

Follow as the Second Vatican Council takes on the universal call to holiness, discussing sainthood, vocations, spirituality, and married life. Find out what Gaudium Et Spes meant for the generation of the 1960s, and how it has impacted society today. Featuring in-depth interviews with theologians Dr. Richard Gaillardetz, Msgr. John Strynkowski, Rev. James Massa, Sr. Sara Butler, Rev. John Cush, and Rev. Robert Imbelli -- as well as testimonies from seminarian James Hansen, and married urban-missionaries Kree & Emmanuel Peña. 

"That they may all be one..." Vatican II makes breakthrough strides in ecumenism and inter-religious dialogue. Discover how the Council has inspired and helped to cultivate relationships between the Church and other denominations and faiths. Includes in-depth commentary from theologians Dr. Richard Gaillardetz, Msgr. John Strynkowski, Rev. James Massa, Rev. Robert Imbelli -- as well as personal interviews with Edwin Cardinal O'Brien (Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem), and Marco Impagliazzo (President of the Community of Sant'Egidio in Rome).

Since its very founding, the Church has had a strong connection to the poor and those in need. How would Vatican II address the topic of Social Justice? From the lives of the saints (including St. Marianne Cope)… to the service of the Sant’Egido Community in present-day Rome, learn how the Council Fathers drew upon the Beatitudes and dignity of the human person in tackling this key issue. 

“Missionary Activity/Ad Gentes” takes a look at World Youth Day, and the Council’s call to Mission through the New Evangelization. Meet the Emmanuel School of Missions Students and members of the Vatican Youth Center, the Centro San Lorenzo. 

The technology of the 60s was exponentially rising when Pope John XXIII convened the Second Vatican Council. But how would Vatican II address new modes of media — both positive and destructive forces? As social communications continue to adapt, discover how the Church has evolved in its relationship with television, radio, news reporting, and art. Explore the “beauty that saves,” the responsibility of artists, and the universality of the Christian idea. 

Questions now arise… What was the core message of Vatican II? Did it change society? Will there be a Vatican III? And was the Council one of continuity or discontinuity? Join theologians, historians, and experts as they unpack Vatican II and celebrate the 50th anniversary of this extraordinary council.