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What changes did Vatican II make in the Catholic Church’s approach to other Christian churches?

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Pope Paul VI stands behind microphones with both arms raised, wearing white papal robes and glasses, during a public appearance in Geneva. — St. Paul VI In 1968 Pope Paul VI appeared in Geneva to address the International Labour Organization on the 50th anniversary of its founding.

The Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) marked a pivotal shift in the Roman Catholic Church’s approach to other Christian churches, signaling its official entry into the ecumenical movement.1

Prior to the council, the Roman see had been hesitant to participate in ecumenical efforts, often viewing them with suspicion regarding religious indifferentism. Vatican II changed this stance by fostering a spirit of dialogue and cooperation. Following the council, the Catholic Church engaged in bilateral dialogues with various Christian bodies, including the Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox churches, to address historical rifts and theological differences.1

These efforts laid the groundwork for future progress, such as the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification signed with the Lutheran World Federation in 1999. While the council did not resolve all doctrinal disputes, it established a commitment to fraternal dialogue and the pursuit of Christian unity, a mission later reaffirmed by subsequent popes as an essential aspect of the church's identity.1