The Catholic University of America

Ernest J. Primeau - Vatican Council II Collection

An inventory of Ernest J. Primeau - Vatican Council II Collection at The American Catholic History Research Center and University Archives


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Telephone: 202-319-5065

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Descriptive Summary
Repository: The American Catholic Research Center and University Archives
Creator: Ernest J. Primeau, September 17, 1909-June 15, 1989
Title: Ernest J. Primeau - Vatican Council II Collection
Dates: 1960-1966
Extent: 6.5 linear feet; 13 boxes
Abstract: The Ernest J. Primeau - Vatican Council II Collection includes preparatory materials that Bishop Primeau compiled for the pontifical commission for the discipline of the clergy and the faithful, documents that reflect his work with the Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity and his personal involvement in the development of key Vatican II decrees and declarations, as well as correspondence pertaining to more general work at the council. It does not contain material relating to the administration of the diocese of Manchester during the council.
Collection Number: ACUA 316
Language: English, French, Italian, Spanish, and Latin.

Biographical Note

Ernest John Primeau was born in Chicago, Illinois, on September 17, 1909 to Ernest and Angeline, and was educated at Loyola University from 1926 to 1928. Ordained on April 7, 1934, he became a Doctor of Sacred Theology (S.T.D.) at St. Mary's Seminary, Mundelein in 1936 and he taught mathematics and physics at Quigley Seminary in Chicago from 1937 to 1946. He recieved a Licentiate in Canon Law (J.C.L.) from the Lateran in 1948 and he served as the rector of St. Mary of the Lake Seminary in Rome from 1946 to 1958. After spending two years, from 1957 to 1959, as a member of the Sacred Congregation of the Holy Office, he returned to the United States to serve briefly as the pastor of Mt. Carmel Church in Chicago. On November 27, 1959 he was appointed as the bishop of Manchester, NH and he was consecrated on February 25, 1960.

On August 8, 1960, Bishop Primeau was appointed as a member of the pontifical commission for the discipline of the clergy and the faithful (de disciplina cleri et populi Christiani), an act that signaled the beginning of Primeau's important contributions to the Second Vatican Council. He worked closely with the American hierarchy as they studied the subjects tackled by the council through the formation of several committees, and he made several oral and written presentations to the council fathers. The address he gave on October 23, 1963 on the relationship of the hierarchy to the laity received world-wide attention, with his phrase, "Let this talk of their [the laity's] duty of subjugation and reverence cease - as if their only duty be stated in these terms: believe, pray, pay, and obey," often cited.

Bishop Primeau's most significant role was played out as a member of the Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity, a body with produced two declarations -- one on Religious Liberty and the other on Roman Catholic relations with Jews and other non-Christians -- that had a highly-charged significance given the events of the twentieth century. He was appointed to the Secretariat on November 29, 1963, during the second session of the council. In spring 1964, he was elected to a sub-committee of the Secretariat that worked on the Declaration on Religious Liberty, which has come to be known as Dignitatis Humanae. He also presented two interventions on this topic to the council; an oral presentation on September 24, 1964 and a written intervention during the same month.

Following the close of the council, Bishop Primeau called the Second Synod in Manchester in order to determine how the changes proscribed by the council would be implemented. He resigned as bishop of Manchester on January 30, 1974. In June 1975 he was reappointed to a five-year term to the Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity. He died in Manchester on June 15, 1989.

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Scope and Contents

This small collection focuses primarily on Primeau's preparation and work for the Second Vatican Council, from 1960 through 1966. The collection includes preliminary research on clerical life and the laity, as well as such hotly debated topics as ecumenism, religious liberty, and Roman Catholic relations with Jews and other non-Christians.

As a member of the pontifical commission for the discipline of the clergy and the laity, Primeau put together background research on a variety of topics such as the clerical way of life, catechetics, and church precepts. This work is found at the beginning of the collection.

The majority of the collection reflects Primeau's work with the Secretariat for Christian Unity, beginning with his appointment in November 1963 through the close of the council in December 1965, though there are some post-conciliar documents that are concerned with implementation of council decrees and the effects of the council on the Catholic Church. Much of the collection consists of both dated and undated drafts of the Decree on Ecumenism, the Declaration on Religious Liberty, and the Declaration on Relations with Jews and Non-Christians that were written and emended by the Secretariat. However, through certain revealing documents such as his correspondence and handwritten notes, the importance of this collection appears to be in the insight provided regarding the inner workings of the Secretariat, the working relationship between members of the American episcopacy, and the networks established between Bishop Primeau and prominent American and international participants and episcopacies. These papers especially touch on the construction and development of the aforementioned declaration and decrees, as well as other prominent issues at the council.

The collection includes correspondence, drafts, comments, personal notes, press releases, articles and other materials on and related to the development of the Decree on Ecumenism, the Declaration on Religious Freedom (commonly known as Dignitatis Humanae), and the Declaration on Relations with the Jews and other Non-Christians (commonly known as Nostra Aetate). The collection also includes correspondence with a variety of other high-ranking clerics that illustrate the development of ideas at the council, as well as internal Vatican politics. There is also correspondence with members of his diocese that provide insight into religious and lay participation in the council on the home-front and into the themes and topics that were of most concern to those in the bishop's pastoral care. This collection does not include information about the administration of the diocese of Manchester during the council.

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Arrangement

The Ernest J. Primeau - Vatican Council II Collection consists of 1 series:


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Restrictions

Restrictions on Access

None.

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Administrative Information

Acquisition Information

Shortly before the end of the Second Vatican Council in December 1965, the Board of Trustees of The Catholic University of America approved the proposal of Bishop Primeau and then-CUA archivist Reverend Dr. Trisco for the establishment of a collection that would contain the papers and other documents pertaining to Vatican II of American participants for the use of qualified students and scholars. Sometime after, Primeau gave his papers into the care of the CUA archives.

Processing Information

Processing completed in 2009 by Mary Zito, with contributions by Joshua Sakolsky in 1996-1997. EAD markup completed in 2009 by Mary Zito.

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Related Material

George Gilmary Higgins Papers

Msgr. Luigi Ligutti - Vatican Council II Collection

James J. Norris - Vatican Council II Collection

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Index Terms

This record series is indexed under the following controlled access subject terms.


Persons:
Primeau, Ernest John

Organizations:
Catholic Church. United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Bishops' Committee for Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs
Vatican Council (2nd : 1962-1965)

Places:
Manchester (New Hampshire)
Rome (Italy)

Subjects:
Manchester (New Hampshire) -- Church History -- 20th century
Vatican Council (2nd : 1962-1965) Declaration on religious freedom
Vatican Council (2nd : 1962-1965) Decree on ecumenism
Vatican Council (2nd : 1962-1965) Dignitatis humanae
Vatican Council (2nd : 1962-1965) Nostra aetate


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Bibliography

Paradis, Wilifrid F. Upon this Granite: Catholicism in New Hampshire, 1647-1997. Portsmouth, NH: Peter E. Randall, 1998.

Primeau, Ernest J. Doctrina Summae Theologiae Alexandri Halensis: De Spiritus Sancti apud Inhabitatione. Mundelein, IL: Seminarium Sanctae Mariae ad Lacum, 1936.

-----Second Synod, Diocese of Manchester, First Session: Prepared by the Clergy, Religious, and Laity and Promulgated by Ernest J. Primeau. Manchester, NH: The Diocese, 1968.

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Detailed Description of the Collection

                       
Series 1, Ernest J. Primeau Vatican II Papers 1960-1966 (13 Boxes)
Includes preparatory materials that Bishop Primeau complied for the pontifical commission for the discipline of the clergy and the faithful, documents that reflect his work with the Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity and his personal involvement in the development of key Vatican II decrees and declarations, as well as correspondence pertaining to more general work at the council.
Box Folder
1 1 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section VI: Precepts of the Church, prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in Latin.
  2 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section VI: Precepts of the Church, n.d.; most likely prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in Latin.
  3 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on I. De Sanctitate Vitae Clericorum, II. De Distributione Cleri, III. De Habitu et Tonsura Clericali, prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in French and Latin.
  4 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Correspondence, December 1960-March 1961.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  5 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on I. De Sanctitate Vitae Clericorum, II. De Distributione Cleri, III. De Habitu et Tonsura Clericali, n.d., most likely prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in Italian and Latin.
  6 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section IV: De Obligationibus Parochorum, n.d., most likely prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in English and Latin.
  7 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section V: De Obligationibus quoad curam animarum, n.d., most likely prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in Latin.
  8 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Commissions of Council (members, consultors, etc.), 1960-1962.
        Documents in English, Italian, and Latin.
  9 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Vota of Bishop Primeau, 1960.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  10 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on VII. Paroececiarum Provisione, Unione, Divisione, n.d., most likely prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in Latin.
  11 Commissio Praeparatora: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section VIII. Beneficorum de Notione et Provisione, 1961.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  12 Commissio Praeparatora: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section VIII. Beneficorum de Notione et Provisione, 1961.
        Documents in Latin.
  13 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section IX. De Administratione Bonorum Ecclesiasticorum et de Praevidentia Sociali Clericorum, 1961.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  14 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section X. De Patrimonio Historica et Artistico Ecclesiastico, n.d., most likely prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in Latin.
  15 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XI. De Censuris Earumque Reservatione, 1961-1962.
        Documents in Latin.
  16 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani- Research on De Officiis Clericorum, n.d., most likely prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in English and Latin.
  17 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani- Research on De Censuris Earumque Reservatione, n.d., most likely prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in English and Latin.
Box Folder
2 1 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XII. De Catechismis Aliisque Libris Catecheticis, 1961.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  2 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XIII. De Organizatione Institutionis Catecheticae, 1961.
        Documents in Latin.
  3 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XIV. De Missarum Stipendiis, De Missarum Onerum Reductione, De Piis Ultimis Voluntatibus, 1962.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  4 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XV. De Fidelium Associationibus, 1962.
        Documents in Latin.
  5 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XVI. De Methodo Institutionis Catecheticae, 1962.
        Documents in English, French, and Latin.
  6 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XVI. De Methodo Institutionis Catecheticae, 1962.
        Documents in Latin.
  7 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XVI. De Methodo Institutionis Catecheticae, 1961-1962.
        Documents in English.
  8 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XVI. De Methodo Institutionis Catecheticae, 1961.
        Documents in English.
  9 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XVII. De Modo Procendendi in Processu Administrativo, 1962.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  10 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XIX. De Ex Pastoribus Protestantibus qui ad Religionem Catholicam Convertuntur, 1961-1962.
        Documents in English, French, and Latin.
  11 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XX. Parochorum de Inamovibilitate, 1961.
        Documents in Latin.
  12 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XXI. De Censuris et Prohibitione Librorum, n.d., most likely prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in English.
  13 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XXI. De Censuris et Prohibitione Librorum, 1961.
        Documents in Latin.
  14 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on XVIII. De Cura Pastoriali, Fideliumque Communismo Inficiuntur, 1961.
        Documents in English, French, and Latin.
  15 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XVIII. De Cura Pastoriali, Fedeliumque Communismo Inficiuntur, 1962.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  16 Commissio Praeparatoria: De Disciplina Cleri et Populi Christiani - Research on Section XXII. De Institutionibus Saecularibus Clericalibus, 1961.
        Documents in English, French, and Latin.
Box Folder
3 1 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official compilation of council fathers' observations, October 20, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  2 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official compilation of council fathers' observations, October 19, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  3 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official complication of council fathers' observations, November 6, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  4 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  5 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  6 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Reports of the Secretariat for Christian Unity on the Declaration, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  7 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  8 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  9 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Reports and work of the Secretariat for Christian Unity on the declaration, October 28, 1964-March 1, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  10 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Response of the Secretariat to observations of council fathers, March 1, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  11 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  12 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Official observations of fathers who did not vote 'yes' on the declaration, n.d.
        Documents in French and Latin. Contains handwritten notes.
  13 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Approved and emended text, February 27, 1965 and May 13, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  14 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Official compilation of council fathers' observations, September 14 and 16, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  15 "On Ecumenism": Text of decree, chapters 1-3, February 11, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  16 "On Ecumenism": Responses to decree from Bishop Emile-Joseph de Smedt of Bruges and the Bishop of Kansas City-St. Joseph, November 196?
        Documents in English.
  17 "De Libertate Religiosa": Corrected text, February 25, 1965.
        Documents in Latin. Contains handwritten notes.
  18 "On conduct with divided Christians," October 4-21, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  19 "On the promotion of Ecumenism in the Catholic Church," November 29, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  20 "On Ecumenism": Work of sub-committee from the Secretariat for Christian Unity, September 1964.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  21 "De Libertate Religiosa": Critical comments on text of schema and note concerning marriages between Catholics and Orthodox, n.d.
        Documents in English.
  22 "On Ecumenism": Corrected text of the decree, September 23, 1964.
        Documents in Latin. Contains handwritten notes.
  23 "De Libertate Religiosa" and "De Iudaeis," October 14-20, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  24 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis," May 13, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  25 "On Ecumenism," October 28, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
Box Folder
4 1 Lay Action and the Church in World Affairs, background information, n.d.
        Documents in English, Italian, and Latin.
  2 Lay Action and the Church in World Affairs, background information, 1960-1961.
        Documents in English, French, and Latin.
  3 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers, prior to April 18, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  4 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers, prior to April 18, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  5 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers by name, prior to April 18, 1964.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  6 "On Ecumenism": work of the Secretariat for Christian Unity, November 20 and 29, December 2, 1963.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  7 "On Ecumenism": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  8 "On Ecumenism": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  9 "On Ecumenism": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  10 "On Ecumenism": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  11 "On Ecumenism": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  12 "On Ecumenism": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in French and Latin.
Box Folder
5 1 "On Ecumenism": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  2 "On Ecumenism": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  3 "On Ecumenism": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  4 Religious Liberty: Dossiers from the French Episcopacy, January, 1964.
        Documents in French. Cover sheet on first dossier misdated as 1963. See also Box 6, folder 14, Box 7, folder 7, and Box 12, folder 24.
  5 Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity: Intersession administrative documents, January 1964.
        Documents in English.
  6 "De Libertate Religiosa": Intersession documents from the Secretariat, February-March 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  7 Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity: Background information on Religious Liberty, Jewish Relations, Collegiality, and other topics at the council, 1963-1964.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, Spanish, and Latin.
  8 "De Libertate Religiosa": Support of the declaration by American Bishops, n.d.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  9 "On Ecumenism": Complilation of general observations by R.D. J. Feiner, February 22, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  10 "On Ecumenism": Compilation of general emendations on chapter 1 by R.P. J. Long, S.J. , February 22, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  11 "On Ecumenism": Compliation of general emendations on chapter 2 by R.P. G. Tavard, A.A., February 22, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  12 "On Ecumenism": Compilation of general emendations on chapter 3, part 1a by R.P. J. Long, S.J., February 24, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  13 "On Ecumenism": Compilation of general observations on chapter 3, part 2a by R.D. P. Michalon, P.S.S., February 24, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  14 "On Ecumenism": Emendation to schema and chapters 1-3 by individual council fathers, most likely prior to April 18, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  15 "On Ecumenism": Emendations to chapter IV by individual council fathers, prior to April 18, 1964.
        Documents in Latin. Chapter IV became the Declaration on the Jews and Non-Christians.
  16 "On Ecumenism": Emendations to chapter III, part 1 by individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  17 "On Ecumenism": Emendations to chapter III, part 1 by individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  18 "On Ecumenism": Emendations to chapter III, part 2 by individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  19 "Mixed Marriages between Catholic and Orthodox," October 9, 1964.
        Document in French.
  20 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  21 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Compilation of emendations, October 6 and 9, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  22 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  23 "A Note on Church Attendance of Arts and Science Graduate Students in the Top Twelve Graduate Schools," by Andrew M. Greeley, ca. 1961.
        Document in English.
Box Folder
6 1 Miscellaneous Correspondence, prior to First Session (September 1962).
        Documents in English. Includes letter about the work of Hans Kung.
  2 Miscellaneous Correspondence, First Session (September-October 1962)
        Documents in English and Latin. Includes requests from Bishop Primeau for periti and note from Thomas Stransky, CSP about the early drafts of "De Libertate Religiosa."
  3 Correspondence with Douglas Horton, Protestant Observer, between First and Second Sessions.
        Documents in English.
  4 Correspondence regarding living arrangements during Second Session, July 1963.
        Documents in English.
  5 Correspondence from 'Dom Luigi' [Msgr. Luigi Ligutti], Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the FAO, January-April 1963.
        Documents in English. See ACUA Msgr. Luigi Ligutti - Vatican Council II Collection.
  6 Correspondence from Msgr. George Higgins, February-June 1963.
        Documents in English.
  7 Anonymous Correspondence - Confidential, June 1963.
        Documents in English. Discusses events in Rome surrounding the death of Pope John XXIII and the election of Pope Paul VI, giving an insiders' interpretation.
  8 Correspondence from John Courtney Murray, S.J., July 1963.
        Documents in English.
  9 Correspondence with Thomas Stransky, CSP regarding business of Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity, August 1963.
        Documents in English. Discusses lack of American presence on the Secretariat, prior to Bishop Primeau's appointment to the Secretariat.
  10 Miscellaneous Correspondence, August 1963.
        Documents in English. Includes letter from Malachi Martin, S.J. about Hans Kung and the decree on awarding honorary degrees.
  11 Miscellaneous Correspondence - Second Session, September-December 1963.
        Documents in English and Latin. Includes letter from New Hampshire Council of Churches and another that references Primeau's intervention about the laity.
  12 Correspondence with the Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity, January-March 1964.
        Documents in English. Touches on Ecumenical debate.
  13 Correspondence with Msgr. George Higgins, January-February 1964.
        Documents in English. Touches on Declaration concering the Jews.
  14 Correspondence to the American Hierarchy and Priests regarding Religious Liberty, February 1964.
        Documents in English. Concerns the dossier prepared by the French Hierarchy found in Box 5, folder 4. See also Box 7, folder 7 and Box 12, folder 24.
  15 Miscellaneous Correspondence, March-June 1964.
        Docuements in English. Includes correspondence regarding the schema on Relations with the Jews and a copy of a letter Primeau received addressed to Hans Kung.
  16 Correspondence regarding Catholic participation at the United States Conference of the World Council of Churches [Protestant], April 1964.
        Docuements in English
  17 Miscellaneous Correspondence, August 1964
        Documents in English. Includes letter to James J. Norris (See ACUA James J. Norris - Vatican Council II Collection).
  18 Miscellaneous Correspondence to Bishop Primeau, August-September 1964
        Documents in English. Letter from Primeau's high school alma mater and letter from Edward Duff, S.J. regarding book on Catholic teaching on birth control.
  19 Miscellaneous Correspondence - Third Session and personal datebook, September-December 1964
        Documents in English, French, and Italian. Letters particuarly highlight Primeau's international relations and networks.
  20 Miscellaneous Correspondence regarding business of the Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity, December 1964-February 1965.
        Documents in English.
  21 Miscellaneous Correspondence regarding Religious Liberty and Ecumenism, January-June 1965.
        Documents in English and French.
  22 Miscellaneous Correspondence, March-September 1965.
        Documents in English. Includes letter from Rabbi Marc Tennenbaum of New York and statement prepared by Msgr. Gremillon and James Norris (see ACUA James J. Norris - Vatican Council II Collection) regarding Secretariat for Promoting World Justice and Development.
  23 Request regarding Theological Expert, June 1965.
        Documents in English.
  24 Correspondence regarding living arrangements for the Fourth Session, July 1965.
        Documents in English.
  25 Correspondence with Cloistered Religious regarding request that the council uphold the cloistered way of life, August 1965.
        Documents in English.
  26 Miscellaneous Correspondence, September-November 1965.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  27 Miscellaneous Correspondence, October-November 1965.
        Documents in English and French. Includes letter and a study from a naval officer on the Church and nuclear warfare.
  28 Correspondence regarding translation of Vatican II documents, October-November 1965.
        Documents in English.
  29 Miscellaneous Correspondence, unrelated to Council, November 1965.
        Documents in English. A few of several documents in the collection that touch on Bishop Primeau's responsibility to his diocese and his other work.
  30 Correspondence regarding Canonization for foundress of Sisters of Mercy, November 1965.
        Documents in English and French. A few of several documents in the collection that touch on Bishop Primeau's responsibility to his diocese and his other work.
  31 Correspondence regarding article written by Bishop Primeau on his personal reflections on Vatican II, January-February 1966.
        Documents in French and English.
  32 Correspondence with Vincent A. Yzermans (NCWC) regarding article on the Declaration on Religious Liberty, May 16, 1966
        Documents in English. Article enclosed.
  33 Receipts and Record for Living Expenses, October-November 1962.
        Documents in English and Italian.
  34 Religious Liberty: Drafts of memorandum regarding Council agenda on Religious Liberty from the American Hierarchy, October 21 1963.
        Documents in English.
  35 "De Libertate Religiosa": Drafts of declaration, February-March 1964.
        Documents in English and Latin. Includes handwritten notes from Bishop Primeau about the drafts.
  36 Background information on content and history of Church Councils, n.d.
        Documents in English. Information complied for use during Vatican II.
  37 Breakdown of participation in council, n.d.
        Documents in English and Latin. Several documents dated October, 1962. Majority of documents undated.
  38 Secretariat of the International Bishops' Committee, 1963-1965.
        Documents in English, French, and Latin.
  39 Secretariat of the International Bishops' Committee, September-December 1965.
        Documents in French and Latin. Handwritten notes in English.
Box Folder
7 1 Secretariat of the International Bishops' Committee, 1962-4.
        Documents in English, French, and Latin.
  2 Meeting of American Hierarchy, August 6-7, 1963
        Documents in English.
  3 Organization of the American Bishops' work at the Council, 1962-3.
        Documents in English.
  4 Articles on the Council, October 13 and December 11, 1965.
        Documents in English and French.
  5 "Directorium Oecumenicum": Ecumenical institutions, valid baptism, profession of faith, and prayers for unity, May 11-12, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  6 Articles and Report on Religious Freedom, 1962-4 and unknown.
        Documents in English, French, and Italian.
  7 Dossier on Religious Freedom from French Episcopacy, January 1964.
        Document in French. See also Box 5, folder 4, Box 6, folder 14, and Box 12, folder 24.
  8 NCWC News Releases on Religious Freedom, December 1962-February 1964.
        Documents in English. Includes some handwritten notes.
  9 Report on Proposal for an Interconfessional Institute for Ecumenical Research, September 17, 1964.
        Documents in English.
  10 Episcopal Commission on Ecumenical Affairs in the NCWC, October 29, 1964.
        Documents in English.
  11 Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity, 1964.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
  12 Articles and Press Releases on Relations with Jews and Non-Christians, June 1961-June 1964.
        Documents in English and Italian.
  13 Articles on Christian Unity and Ecumenism, no date.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
  14 Christian Unity and Ecumenism in Canada, July 1963.
        Documents in English and French.
  15 Articles and Statements on Christian Unity and Ecumenism, October 1959; January 1961-August 1963.
        Documents in English and French.
  16 Christian Unity and Ecumenism: NCWC News Releases, May 1962-May 1963.
        Documents in English.
  17 Voting Materials for Schema on Religious Freedom, no date.
        Documents in Latin.
  18 NCWC News Release on John Courtney Murray's "Problem of Religious Freedom at the Council," pg. 1-27, October 27, 1964.
        Document in English.
  19 NCWC News Release on John Courtney Murray's "Problem on Religious Freedom at the Council," pg. 28-54, October 27, 1964.
        Document in English.
Box Folder
8 1 Correspondence from the faithful of the diocese on the council: General Committee Reports, July and September 1964.
        Documents in English.
  2 Correspondence from the faithful of the diocese on the council: Church in the World, July-August 1964.
        Documents in English.
  3 Correspondence from the faithful of the diocese on the council: Laity, Mass, and Parish Life, June-August 1964.
        Documents in English.
  4 Correspondence from the faithful of the diocese on the council: Religious Life and Duty, June-September 1964.
        Documents in English and French.
  5 Correspondence from the faithful of the diocese on the council: Marriage and Family Life, June-August 1964.
        Documents in English.
  6 Articles and NCWC Press Releases on Ecumenism, 1964.
        Documents in English.
  7 Divine Word News Service Press Releases: Ecumensim, no date.
        Documents in English.
  8 National Workshop on Christian Unity - Baltimore, MD, June 15-17, 1964.
        Documents in English.
  9 Articles and Materials on Ecumenism, January-May 1964.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
  10 "On Ecumenism": Text, February-March 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  11 American hierarchy's work on ecumenism and response to work of Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity, January-September 1964.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  12 Articles and NCWC News Releases on Religious Liberty, November 1963-April 1965.
        Documents in French, Italian, and English.
  13 John Courtney Murray, S.J. to Bishop Primeau on Religious Liberty: Letter and paper, July 196?
        Documents in English.
  14 Notes on Religious Liberty, January-May 1964.
        Documents in English, French, and Latin.
  15 "De Libertate Religiosa": Drafts, March 5, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
Box Folder
9 1 Correspondence and Articles from Hugo Maria Kellner, Ph.D. on Religious Liberty and Nuclear Warfare, May 28, 1964.
        Documents in English.
  2 Correspondence regarding Council decree on relations with non-Christians, April and August 1964
        Documents in English.
  3 Press Releases and Articles on relations with non-Christians, September 1962-September 1964.
        Documents in English.
  4 "De Iudaeis": Appendix, March 4, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  5 Articles and pamphlets on relations with the Jews, 1964.
        Documents in English, French, and Italian. Not all documents dated.
  6 "You and the Ecumenical Council," no.1-6, ca. 1962.
        Documents in English. Layperson's guide to the Council produced by Paulist Press.
  7 Statutes and norms for the Council, August 6, 1962.
        Document in Latin.
  8 Articles on the council: Ecumenism, May and October 1965.
        Documents in English.
  9 Ecumenical affairs at St. Michael's College, VT, February 22-3, 1965.
        Documents in English.
  10 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": printed copy, marked sub-secreto, report of Cardinal Bea, [September 25?] 1965.
        Document in Latin.
  11 "De Matrimoniis Mixtis," October 3, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  12 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Emendations made by Secretariat, October 14 and 16, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  13 "On Ecumenism": Emendations, October 20-8, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  14 "On Ecumenism": Draft of decree, [prior to April 18, 1964?]
        Documents in English.
  15 "De Libertate Religiosa": Notes from meeting between Secretariat and Theological Commission, October 27, 1964.
        Document in English, Italian, and Latin. Handwritten notes switch between the three languages fluidly.
  16 "De Libertate Religiosa": Council fathers present to vote, September 15, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  17 "De Libertate Religiosa": Emendations from individual council fathers, after September 22, 1965.
        Document in Latin.
  18 "De Libertate Religiosa": Compliation of emendations, November 6, 1965.
        Document in Latin. Contains handwritten notes in Latin.
  19 "De Libertate Religiosa": Emendations, November 8 and 18, 1965.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  20 Secretariat for the Promotion of Christian Unity, administrative documents, fourth session, August-November 1965.
        Documents in English, Italian, and Latin.
  21 Articles and documents relating to ecumenism, 1965.
        Documents in English.
  22 "On Ecumenism" (published copy marked subsecreto), 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  23 Addresses (2) in honor of Augustin Cardinal Bea; one by Protestant observer Douglas Horton, September 18, 1965.
        Documents in English and French.
  24 Stewardship in Church -- Protestant and Catholic, September 1965.
        Documents in English.
  25 Newsweek article, "When the Council Reconvenes will a New Church be Born?", December 17, 1962.
        Document in English.
  26 "De Libertate Religiosa": Emendations, n.d.
        Documents in Latin. Includes handwritten notes.
  27 "De Libertate Religiosa": Compliation of emendations, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  28 "De Libertate Religiosa": Compliation of emendations, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  29 "De Libertate Religiosa": Compliation of emendations, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
Box Folder
10 1 "On Ecumenism": Compilations of emendations; Prooemium to Caput I.2-4, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  2 "On Ecumenism": Emendations by individual council fathers; Caput II.5-8 and Caput III, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  3 "De Libertate Religiosa": Emendations, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  4 "De Libertate Religiosa": Elaboration on the new schema, October 9, 1964.
        Documents in Latin. Includes handwritten notes.
  5 Subcommissions on "De Iudaeis" and "De Libertate Religiosa," October 12, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  6 "De Libertate Religiosa": Summary of emendations from J. Hamer, O.P. and W. Becker, Or., October 12-3, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  7 "On Ecumenism": Summary of emendations to Caput III, part 2 by P. Michalon, October 24, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  8 Divine Word News Service Press Release -- Division of Council Fathers by Country, 1962?
        Document in English.
  9 Correspondence: Relations with the Jews, October 1, 1964.
        Document in English.
  10 "On Ecumenism": Compilation of emendations, n.d.
        Document in Latin.
  11 "De Libertate Religiosa": Text, n.d.
        Document in Latin. Includes handwritten notes.
  12 "De Libertate Religiosa": Text and other related council documents, October 16, 23-4, 1964.
        Documents in Latin. Includes handwritten notes.
  13 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Emendations to text, October 30, 1964.
        Document in Latin. Includes handwritten notes.
  14 "De Libertate Religiosa": Summary of emendations made by council fathers, October 30, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  15 "On Ecumenism": Summary of suggested emendations to Prooemium and Caput I, October 19, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  16 "On Ecumenism": Summary of suggested emendations by C.J. Dumont, O.P., October 22, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  17 Religious Liberty: Handwritten note cards containing council fathers' suggested emendations, n.d.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  18 Articles and Press Releases on Religious Liberty, July-October 1965.
        Documents in English, French, and Italian.
  19 Correspondence with and work of John Courtney Murray, S.J. on Religious Liberty, August 1964.
        Documents in English.
  20 Correspondence with and work of John Courtney Murray, S.J. on Religious Liberty, August 1965.
        Documents in English and French.
  21 Correspondence and Documents regarding American Episcopacy emending decree on Religious Liberty, n.d.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  22 Official ballots with emendations to the Declaration on Religious Liberty, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  23 Prayers for the promotion of Religious Liberty, n.d.
        Documents in English and French. See also Box 13, folder 3.
  24 "De Libertate Religiosa": Text of schema, March 4, 1964.
        Document in Latin.
  25 "De Libertate Religiosa": Summary of emendations, May 8, 1965.
        Document in Latin.
  26 "De Libertate Religiosa": Text, n.d.
        Documents in Latin. Includes some handwritten notes.
  27 "De Libertate Religiosa": Text, October 5, 1965 and October 11, 1965.
        Documents in Latin. Includes some handwritten notes.
  28 "De Libertate Religiosa": Text and revised text, after November 17, 1964.
        Document in English.
Box Folder
11 1 "De Libertate Religiosa": Summary of method and principles of the schema, n.d.
        Document in English.
  2 Commentaries on Religious Liberty and the Declaration on Religious Liberty, May-October 1965.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
  3 Materials on the Administrative Tribunal of the Vatican II Council, 1963-1964.
        Documents in Italian and Latin.
  4 "De Libertate Religiosa": Summaries of council fathers' emendations completed by Bishop De Smedt and group of periti, October 20, 1965.
        Documents in Italian and Latin.
  5 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  6 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  7 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  18 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  19 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  20 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  21 "De Libertate Religiosa": Official observations of individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Italian and Latin.
  22 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Official observations of November 1964 text from individual council fathers, February 18, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  23 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Summary of emendations by J. Neuner, S.J., February 23, 1965.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  24 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Summaries of emendations by several scholars, March 1, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  25 "Directory for Ecumenism": Emendations and suggestions made in March for a meeting June 6-16, 1966, March 1966.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
  26 "Directory for Ecumenism": Emendations and suggestions made in March for a meeting June 6-16, 1966, March 1966.
        Documents in English, French, Italian and Latin.
  27 "Directory for Ecumenism": Emendations and suggestions made in March for a meeting June 6-16, 1966, March 1966.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
Box Folder
12 1 "Directory for Ecumenism": Emendations and suggestions made in March for a meeting June 6-16, 1966, March 1966.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
  2 "De Libertate Religiosa": Suggestions and emendations from individual bishops, n.d.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
  3 "De Libertate Religiosa": Suggestions and emendations from individual bishops, n.d.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
  4 "De Libertate Religiosa": Suggestions and emendations from individual bishops, n.d.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
  5 "De Libertate Religiosa": Suggestions and emendations from individual bishops, n.d.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
  6 "De Libertate Religiosa": Suggestions and emendations from individual bishops, n.d.
        Documents in English, French, Italian, and Latin.
  7 NCWC News Releases, February 4 and April 30, 1965.
        Documents in English.
  8 "De Libertate Religiosa": In genere and relatio of numbers 1-5, February 21, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  9 "De Libertate Religiosa": Relatio 6-14, February 22, 1965.
        Documents in Latin. Includes handwritten notes, some of which are in English.
  10 "De Libertate Religiosa": Suggestions and emendations, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  11 "De Libertate Religiosa": Corrections from Fr. Aniceti Fernandez, Mag. Gen. O.P., n.d.
        Document in Latin.
  12 "De Libertate Religiosa": Emendations and suggestions from individual council fathers, February 27, 1965.
        Documents in Latin.
  13 "De Libertate Religiosa": Observations by Rene Laurentin, January 4, 1964.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  14 "De Libertate Religiosa": Text with emendations, February 23-March 1, 1965.
        Documents in Latin. Includes handwritten notes.
  15 Relations with Jews and Non-Christians, February 1965.
        Document in English. Article.
  16 Relations with Jews and Non-Christians, April 1965.
        Documents in English. Several Articles.
  17 Relations with Jews and Non-Christians, May 1965.
        Documents in English and Latin. Handwritten notes, articles, press releases, and correspondence.
  18 Relations with Jews and Non-Christians, June 1965.
        Documents in English. Articles, press releases, and correspondence.
  19 Relations with Jews and Non-Christians, July 1965.
        Documents in English and French. Articles, press releases, and correspondence.
  20 Relations with Jews and Non-Christians, August 1965.
        Documents in English. Articles.
  21 Relations with Jews and Non-Christians, n.d.
        Documents in English. Pamphlets.
  22 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": emendated text and handwritten notes, 1965.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  23 Envelopes with handwritten notes, n.d.
  24 Religious Liberty: Correspondence with French Episcopacy and Dossier from French Episcopacy on Religious Liberty, January 1965.
        Documents in English and French.See also Box 5, folder 4, Box 6, folder 14, and Box 7, folder 7.
Box Folder
13 1 "De Libertate Religiosa": Text; Correspondence from Joseph Cardinal Ritter with suggestions to improve the text, March-April 1965.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  2 Religious Liberty: Primeau's fourth session intervention, August 1965.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  3 Religious Liberty: Prayer broadcast on Radio Luxembourg, August 1965. See also Box 10, folder 23.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  4 Religious Liberty: Published material and press releases, 1965.
        Documents in English.
  5 "De Libertate Religiosa": Text, emendations/suggestions, May and October 1965.
        Documents in English and Latin.
  6 Ecumenism: Published material and statements, 1964-5.
        Documents in English and French.
  7 "On Ecumenism": Text, November 11, 1964.
        Document in Latin. Includes handwritten notes.
  8 Ecumenism: Press releases, July and September 1964.
        Documents in English.
  9 "On Ecumenism": Suggestions and Emendations, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  10 "De Libertate Religiosa": Suggestions and emendations by individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  11 "De Libertate Religiosa": Suggestions and emendations by individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  12 "De Libertate Religiosa" and "De Iudaeis": Emendations, October 7 and 9, 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  13 "De Libertate Religiosa": Suggestions and emendations by individual council fathers, n.d.
        Documents in Latin.
  14 "De Libertate Religiosa" and "De Iudaeis": Observations and emendations, September 1964.
        Documents in Latin.
  15 Press releases and published material on Jewish Relations, 1963-5.
        Documents in English.
  16 "De Iudaeis et de Non-Christianis": Emendations and suggestions, n.d.
        Documents in French and Latin.
  17 Press releases and published material on Jewish Relations, January-February 1965.
        Documents in English and French.
  18 Ecumenism: Published materials and materials from Secretariat for Christian Unity, 1964-1965.
        Documents in English and French
  19 Ecumenism: Press releases, April-August 1965.
        Documents in English.

TABLE OF CONTENTS


Descriptive Summary

Biographical Note

Scope and Contents

Arrangement

Restrictions

Administrative Information

Related Material

Index Terms

Bibliography

Detailed Description of the Collection

Series 1, Ernest J. Primeau Vatican II Papers 1960-1966
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