Talk on Vatican II, the laity

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DAVENPORT – Frank Wessling, former editor of The Catholic Messenger and a writer in the Catholic press for the past 51 years, will give a talk Nov. 7 on Vatican II in St. Anthony Parish Center. The talk, to be held from 6:30-8 p.m., is titled: “U Are the Church! How did that happen? Reflection on Vatican II.”
Sister Judy Herold, SSND, pastoral associate for the parish, welcomes everyone to this Year of Faith event so that they can increase their knowledge and be inspired in their faith.
Wessling says the event’s title is meant to provoke interest in what the council meant for the laity. “We’ll look at some history of how the people have been perceived in the Church, the meaning of ‘Catholic Action’ in the decades leading up to the council, and how the council itself bent consequent history toward different emphases.
“We’ll look at the way the council Fathers see the laity in the Constitution on the Church and in the Decree on the Apostolate of Lay People. We’ll also see especially in the decree how tension in the council between ‘progressive’ and ‘conservative’ tendencies seems to produce a standoff, or perhaps a healthy balance, depending on your viewpoint.
“Our history since the council has taken us in directions not anticipated by its members at the time. And, finally, I raise the question of how well we have done with Pope John XXIII’s hope that the council would lead to an increase of holiness.”
The presentation will be followed by a question and answer session and refreshments. For more information call Sr. Herold at (563) 322-3303.


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