Pope John XXIII opened the Second Vatican Council sixty years ago on October 11, 1962. Ever since, the council has been alternately celebrated or maligned for its supposed break with tradition and embrace of the modern world. In his book Reclaiming Vatican II, Fr. Blake Britton clears up the misconceptions and reveals how--when properly understood and applied, the council fosters a richer experience of being in the Church.

This guide--written in response to numerous requests for study materials to accompany the book--is intended for individuals, small groups, or a year-long parish-wide study. It will allow you to go beyond the polarization surrounding the council and to dig deeper into what was really said and what really happened during Vatican II.

Included in the study guide are a summary and outline of each chapter of the book, key terms, questions for discussion or personal reflection, and a journal prompt called "What can I do?"