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Tuesday, April 9, 2013

What's "New" in the New Evangelization?


Initially introduced by Pope John Paul II during his apostolic visit to Poland in 1979, without any specific emphasis or idea of its future role. The "new evangelization" was used again and given new life in the Holy Father's Magisterium to the Churches in Latin America. Pope John Paul II used the term to reawaken and elicit renewed efforts in a new missionary undertaking on the continent. The idea of a "new evangelization" was again taken up and proposed in the continental synodal assemblies, celebrated in preparation for the Jubilee of the Year 2000. At that time, it became an accepted expression in the pastoral and ecclesial thought of the local Churches.

The new evangelization is primarily a spiritual activity capable of recapturing in our times the courage and forcefulness of the first Christians and the first missionaries

It requires constant evaluation of the life of the local Church, including the consideration of its accomplishments and difficulties. It means not "doing evangelization" in the same way if it is not working: different means, same passion as the early Church and all the saintly heroes that came after spreading the Word of God throughout Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and Oceania. In short, it is a renewed efforts to meet the challenges which today's society and cultures present.  In facing these challenges, the Church does not give up or retreat into herself; instead, she undertakes a project to revitalize herself. She makes the Person of Jesus Christ, and a personal encounter with him, central to her thinking. 

Paraphrasing Pope Benedict: Evangelization is introducing the person of Christ to others within the context of their culture. It is going out to them with the Lord, and walking with them into the Church. 

And how can you bring Christ wherever you go? Steep yourself in the sacramental life of the Church, living in a state of grace, praying for docility to his will, and remember that YOU ARE NEVER ALONE! But, you get to choose your companion.

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