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What did Pope John XXIII mean by a New Pentecost?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
John XXIII
St. John XXIII Pope John XXIII said the goal of his papacy was to “bring the church up to date” and regenerate Catholic faith.

When Pope John XXIII spoke of a "New Pentecost," he was expressing his hope for a spiritual renewal and a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the Roman Catholic Church.1

He envisioned this "New Pentecost" as the guiding spirit behind the Second Vatican Council, which he convened to "bring the church up to date" (aggiornamento) and foster its spiritual regeneration. By using this term, the pope sought to emphasize a pastoral approach characterized by positivity and openness, rather than condemnation.21

This vision was central to his desire to make a new start in the church's mission, encouraging a reexamination of doctrines and disciplines to better serve humanity in the modern world. Ultimately, the concept reflected his commitment to unity, reconciliation, and the church's role as a vital, suprapolitical spiritual force.1