DESCRIPTION

In this first volume, Giuseppe Alberigo begins with the extraordinary announcement of the newly-elected Pope John XXIII to convene "a general council for the universal church." Etienne Fouilloux explores the gradual development and shaping of the preparatory commissions. Joseph A. Komonchak then describes the internal struggles to define the scope and nature of the council; J. Oscar Beozzo examines the external climate and focus of the world media, governments, and other religious leaders. Finally, Karl Wittstadt recounts the organizational and logistical refinements that lead up to the eve of the council itself.