What did the Second Vatican Council advocate for regarding church engagement?

The Second Vatican Council, held from 1962 to 1965, marked a significant shift in the Catholic Church's approach to modernity and its relationship with the contemporary world. The Council advocated for greater engagement and dialogue with the modern world as a means to address the needs and concerns of the times. This included a recognition of the importance of addressing social justice, promoting ecumenism, and fostering interfaith dialogue.

One of the key documents that emerged from the Council, "Gaudium et Spes," emphasized the Church's mission to communicate the Gospel in a way that resonates with the lived experiences of people today. By encouraging a dialogue with modernity, the Council sought to affirm the relevance of the Church’s teachings while also being open to new ideas and perspectives that can enrich the Catholic faith. This approach stands in stark contrast to isolationism or a rigid adherence to traditional practices without adaptation, recognizing that the Church must actively engage with the context in which it exists to remain a vital part of the global community.