Evangelization – (continued)

How Do We Evangelize?

"Evangelization will also always contain - as the foundation, center and, at the same time, summit of its dynamism - a clear proclamation that, in Jesus Christ, salvation is offered to all, as a gift of God's grace and mercy."

Evangelii Nuntiandi

• Through The Power Of The Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit, who is at work in the heart of every person, is the principal agent of evangelization. The Spirit, the first gift of the risen Christ to his people, gives us both the ability to receive the Gospel of Jesus and the power to proclaim it. Without the Holy spirit, evangelization simply cannot occur.

• Through Witness

Above all, the Gospel must be proclaimed by witness, that is, we are called to live our lives in such a way that it is obvious that we take our faith seriously. Our relationships and everyday activities in our families, workplaces and society are to be shaped by Gospel values. We witness as an evangelizing community when we gather around the Table of the Lord and when we reach out to those in need.

• Through Sharing our Faith

All of us who have been given the gift of faith are asked to freely share this gift with others. We are urged to tell others how God is acting in our lives. We need to do this in our own way, using words that are comfortable for us.

We are encouraged to share the Gospel with those who have no church community, and with those who have given up active participation in the Catholic community. We also welcome those seeking full communion with the Catholic Church.

Sharing our faith needs to be done in the spirit of dialogue, with respect and concern for others.
•  It involves listening and being open to how God is working in another person's life.
•  We need to have a gentle, non-threatening approach.
•  We are not to proselytize, that is, we are not to manipulate or pressure anyone.

Evangelization is sharing the Good News that we have experienced and inviting others to join us.

Whom Are We Called to Evangelize?