This building is dedicated to the hopes, dreams, and vision of Vatican Council II. (1961-1965) (Picture of Plaque near front entrance)
 
There is not an aspect of our parish life today that has not been profoundly influenced by the hopes, dreams, and vision of Vatican II. In announcing his decision to call a Council, Pope John XXIII stated, “____________________________________”. That vision was realized as the Bishops of the Church met for 4 sessions over 4 years to promulgate 16 documents that continue to guide the Church.
 
All Catholics are familiar with the changes that took place in the way we worship. The use of the common language of the people, the priest facing the people, communion in the hand, the multiplicity of lay ministers, the emphasis on Scripture, great variety of music and song are only a few of the things Catholics today take for granted. They were all changes sparked by the Decree on the Liturgy of Vatican II.
 
We have also worked hard at developing relationships with other Christians and people of faith throughout the world. Chapter Five of the Constitution on the Church entitled “The Universal Call to Holiness” proclaims, “That all people, regardless of their state in life, are called to holiness.” The Decree has opened the way for all the baptized to see
their work in the world as a means to obtain sanctity. The decree on The Church in The Modern World invites the Church to open itself to the developments taking place in the world and to become an agent for change in creating a better world, transformed by the gospel and love of Christ.
 
Our understanding of the influence of Vatican Council II continues to unfold during our time. It is a privilege to be part of this unfolding. It is our hope that the building will enable members of the Church of Saint Ann to continue to be shaped, informed, and inspired by the work of the Council.