October 15, 2012
How Vatican II Helped the Jesuits Do Their Job
By Tyler Flynn
Vatican II marked a significant change which, unlike many previous ecumenical councils, did not occur on any dogmatic or doctrinal level. Rather, it created a new sense of Catholic culture, in dialogue with the modern world, which now integrates itself into every aspect of Christian life. This changing culture is marked by laity involvement in the church, a blending with modern culture, a focus on the individual, and a greater emphasis on the importance of service to others, all of which are promoted in Jesuit Catholic universities.
The Jesuit University is a unique lens through which the changes made within the church can be seen and evaluated. The focus of these institutions may not be on the rigorous study of theology and the application of Catholic doctrines and dogmas; nevertheless, they create a sense of Christian identity and culture through their students’ commitment to service and to the good of the surrounding community. ...
The focus of these universities is not to convert their students to Catholicism. While early Jesuits may have focused their ministries on saving souls, Vatican II, with its publication of Dignitatis Humanae, teaches salvation is not limited to those within the church. Thus, Jesuit institutions, through their dedication to service, can create “anonymous Christians” in the vision of Karl Rahner, a Jesuit whose ideas had a significant influence on the Second Vatican Council. In a sense, these schools graduate students who may not follow Christ, but still live their lives within His image. ...
Vatican II: this overrides everyone!
(Jesus Christ in John 3:3-5, Pope St. Peter in Acts 4:12, and St. Paul in Ephesians 4:5-6 have entered the chat)