The joys and the hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the people of this age, especially those who are poor or in any way afflicted...are the joys and hopes, the griefs and anxieties of the followers of Christ. - Gauldium et Spes, 1

The Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) was a time of great enthusiasm in the Catholic Church. Major changes in liturgy, ecumenism and religious life proposed new ways of understanding the church's life, structure and ministry.

Reform and renewal affected many established institutions - including religious orders and congregations - inviting them to revisit their origins and traditions; and how they could adapt and reform in order to reflect the changes effected by the Council.

Among these was the need to revisit formation and education; and the establishment of what would become Yarra Theological Union reflects those exciting times.

Aiming for Excellence is the story of fifty years of YTU - a story of change and development in how theological education and formation began, adapted and transformed in that half century - and the gradual enrolment and significant contribution of religious sisters and lay people to the culture of the community.

In a series of very personal reflections, the contributors - all former students or lecturers - recall key events, personalities, insights that grew their faith, deepened friendships, contributed to a keener understanding of the Council's challenge to witness the gospel in our times.

It is a book of remembrance and of celebration, an occasion for jubilee reflection on the extraordinary achievement of what has become a key educational institution in the life of Catholics and other Christians in Australia and beyond.