Vatican II’s enduring call to renewal is rooted in a closer relationship with Jesus

Glen Argan, author of Jesus Christ: The Heart of Vatican II, says the teachings of the Second Vatican Council remain essential to Catholic renewal through a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. In his book, Argan argues that true renewal involves more than liturgical reforms or structural changes to the Church, but instead requires a spiritual transformation that changes how Catholics live their faith and serve others.

Argan, the longtime editor of the Western Catholic Reporter, developed the book from a series of articles he wrote about the council. He expanded the project after receiving encouragement from then-retired Archbishop Joseph MacNeil to explore the council's teachings more deeply.

Argan suggests that encountering Jesus through prayer, Scripture, the sacraments, and service to those who suffer is fundamental to this renewal. He notes that while the ways individuals meet Jesus are unique, the core of the council's message is a spiritual renewal that every generation must pursue.