Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
New Delhi (Fides Service ) - “The evangeliser must seek to enter the live of the person to whom he or she wishes to announce Christ and try to build bridges of understanding and friendship. Evangelisation is not a threat to cultural identity or traditional heritage” Archbishop Thomas Menamparampil of Guwahati said at a recent seminar on Evangelisation and Catechesis in New Delhi for clergy, religious and lay people involved in evangelisation and formation. Reminding those present that the Church’s mission is to evangelise the Archbishop said this means “carrying the love of God to every individual and to all humanity”. The Archbishop said he did not agree with those who say they spread the Gospel while remaining distant from the life and reality of those to whom it is destined.
He said an evangeliser must be concerned for the needs of individuals and communities and solidarity with those in need is central to the work of evangelisation and that material help is due to the dignity for every person since all are created by God.
He concluded that the service of evangelisation comes in answer to the hunger for God which lies in every heart. Among the difficulties encountered in evangelisation in India the Archbishop mentioned an anti-conversion law enforced in various states of India, spreading Hindu fundamentalism which threatens social harmony and accuses Christians of proselytising. He said the antidote is for Christians to show love and non violence towards those who are animated by hatred, prejudice and intolerance. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 04/05/2005 Righe: 28 Parole: 285)
