We can only rejoice that after the turn taken by the second Vatican Council during its first phase we may justifiably hope for greater freedom for what is, somewhat erroneously, called the ‘new theology’. In an earlier article I have already commented on that aspect of the Council. Since then I have given some thought to related aspects of the Council.

When we examine more closely the speeches of the council fathers in St Peter's we have to admit that some of the utterances of the socalled ‘open wing’ strike us as less felicitous, and such as might evoke, during the second phase of the Council, reactions of a kind that could easily cause confusion in the ranks of this ‘open wing’.

Theology, bible and liturgy are coming together at last. The modern renewal is a glorious new manifestation of the risen Christ in and through his Church. Nevertheless, there is still much to be done in bringing about a really vital Christ-centred orientation in the lives of all. We need to find Christ not only at mass and in the sacraments but in every condition and circumstance of our daily living. We must learn to give every aspect of our lives a sacramental character, an act of worship in Christ to God. What is important is not so much that we say our prayers, but that we become ourselves a living prayer. ‘Present your bodies as a sacrifice, living, holy, pleasing to God—your spiritual service. And be not conformed to this world, but be transformed in the newness of your mind, that you may discern what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God’ (Rom. 12. 1-2).