lasted from 1959 to 1962. The first year was the antepreparatory period. On 17 May 1959, John XXIII appointed an antepreparatory commission to consult bishops, Catholic universities and theological faculties, and departments of the Roman Curia about subjects that might be discussed at the council.

The next two years were the preparatory period. On 5 June 1960, ten preparatory commissions were created. These bodies produced draft texts, known as schemas, for discussion by the bishops. Most commissions were linked to departments of the