How much did the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II) of 1962–1965 contribute to the decline of Catholicism in the United States?

***This thread will get locked instantly if it gets too much controversy, so please stay factual.***<br><br>The Second Vatican Council (Vatican II) was a pivotal event for Catholicism, marking a significant turning point in its history. The Council's reforms, which took place from 1962 to 1965, aimed to modernize and revitalize the Church, making it more relevant and responsive to the needs of the contemporary world. Among the many changes, the most visible reform introduced by Vatican II was that of the liturgy; the Mass could now be celebrated in vernacular languages, and the priest could face the congregation. These changes were intended to increase lay participation and bring a deeper spiritual connection to the faithful.<br><br>However, the Council's reforms encountered resistance from some quarters, particularly among traditionalists who preferred the established ways of the Church. Some critics saw the modernizing as moving away from the Church's roots.