Nostra Aetate — the fruits of Vatican II for Christian-Jewish relations

The Second Vatican Council's document Nostra Aetate heralded a dramatic modern revolution in Jewish-Catholic relations, in particular, and Christian--Jewish relations in general. Nevertheless, many Christians and even Jews are unaware of how much of a transformation this has been. This lecture will highlight the latter by summarizing the past Christian approach to Jews and Judaism, analyzing the significance of Nostra Aetate and how its teaching has been developed subsequently by the Magisterium, especially under Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI. In conclusion, it will indicate the outstanding challenges for the ongoing relationship.