Pope John XXIII: Essential Writings

Pope John XXIII (1881-1963) was the "transitional" pope elected in 1958 who revolutionized the church by convening the Second Vatican Council. He set the tone for the Council by speaking of the need for "updating" or aggiornamento, "opening the windows" of the church, and responding to the "signs of the times." He signaled a new pastoral style of leadership, marked by love for the world, and a strong commitment to peace and social justice. At the time of his death in 1963 he was one of the most beloved leaders in the world. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2000.