Reading the signs of our times – Gaudium et Spes at 60
The Second Vatican Council, St Peter’s, Rome
Colaimages/Alamy
The final document of the Second Vatican Council illuminated the geopolitical, economic and social dynamics of globalisation with remarkable prescience
Sixty years ago this month the world’s Catholic bishops gathered in Rome to approve a historic but often neglected document. The Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World, Gaudium et Spes (“Joy and Hope”), closed the Second Vatican Council and opened a new phase in the history of Catholicism. After two centuries opposing modernity, the Church embraced democracy, religious freedom and interfaith dialogue and set out a positive vision for global peace and justice.
Get Instant Access
Continue Reading
Register for free to read this article in full
Subscribe for unlimited access
From just £37.50 quarterly
Print copy of The Tablet delivered directly to your door.
Complete access to all Tablet website content including all premium content.
Access to the weekly digital copy of The Tablet.
Full access to The Tablet’s archive – over 180 years of back issues.
Already a subscriber? Login
Help us keep The Tablet’s voice independent, clear and far-reaching.
Founded in 1840, The Tablet is the leading independent English-language Catholic weekly, celebrated for great writing, astute analysis, brilliant arts and books reviews and trustworthy reporting from correspondents in Britain, Ireland, Rome and across the world.
Independent, high-quality journalism is at the heart of what we do. The Tablet does not have deep pockets and we are not funded by rich donors. If you appreciate our work please consider supporting The Tablet’s Development Fund. It only takes a moment and you can cancel at any time.
- Support with £5 per month
- Support with £10 per month
- Support with other amount.
