Vatican II: visible union in the one priesthood ...

After he had been Pope for only 90 days John XXIII, now Blessed, wanted the Council to update the Catholic Church, renew it spiritually, re-establish unity among all Christians and transform the relationship of Catholics with Jews, Muslims and followers of other religions.

From its opening session in October 1962 until its close on the 8th December 1965 the Second Vatican Council held millions of Catholics and others riveted.

The world's media followed closely the events that unfolded and the decisions that were taken during the four sessions of this Council.

It was widely agreed that this was the greatest religious event of the twentieth century.

Around two and a half thousand bishops attended Vatican II. Anglican , Orthodox and Protestant delegates were present as observers. And their presence, Jesuit theologian Father Gerald O'Collins says,played a significant role.

As did the presence of lay men and women attending as official auditors who on occasion addressed the Bishops of the Council ...

In this feature theologian and well known author Father Gerald O'Collins shares his memories of the great breakthrough in February 1965 when priests were allowed to celebrate together at the main altar beginning to visibly express union in the one priesthood of Jesus Christ...

A programme produced by Veronica Scarisbrick

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