Dialogue and Proclamation (1991) Today’s plan: Review conclusion of Truth and Tolerance Discuss principles for how to talk, live, & cooperate with those who hold radically different beliefs

Two sides of the same coin Evangelization = mission of the Church in its totality Proclamation = invitation to faith in Christ

A positive evaluation of other traditions The Spirit “offers to all the possibility…” “In a way known to God…” “They share, though differently…” “Unaware that Christ is the source…”

A positive evaluation of other traditions “It will be in the sincere practice of what is good in their own traditions and by following the dictates of conscience that the members of other religions respond positively to God's invitation and receive salvation in Jesus Christ, even while they do not recognize or acknowledge him as their savior.” Implicit vs. explicit faith

A positive evaluation of other traditions Good is present even in their “rites and customs” “The inchohate reality of the Kingdom” A preparation for the Gospel

The Christian’s response? Acknowledge (2) Preserve (3) Encourage

Salvation history in relation to non-Christians Theology of history: “There is but one history of salvation”

John Paul II, Dominum et Vivificantem “We need to go further back, to embrace the whole of the action of the Holy Spirit even before Christ-from the beginning...For this action has been exercised, in every place and at every time, indeed in every individual, according to the eternal plan of salvation”

A reality check… “It does not follow” that everything in non-Christian traditions the result of grace. Christians may have to peacefully challenge others

“First take the log out of your own eye…” “The Church may find herself challenged...” True dialogue deepens our faith but demands (a) commitment to the truth and (b) readiness to be transformed

“First take the log out of your own eye…” Dialogue helps us to: Give up ingrained prejudices To revise preconceived ideas And allow the understanding of our faith to be purified

The crucial importance of commitment Dialogue requires a balanced attitude. Neither ingenuous nor overly critical Sincerity of interreligious dialogue requires open witness to our own faith

The forms of dialogue Ecumenical vs. inter-religious Life Action Theological exchange Religious experience

What are your obstacles? Obstacles to dialogue What are your obstacles? See DP 52, 73-74

“Go and make disciples of all nations!” Proclamation “is not optional.” The Church raises questions Socratic method vs. hellfire

Closing Thoughts from Benedict XVI “Nowadays the quickened pace of globalization makes it possible for people of different cultures and religions to be in closer contact. This represents a providential opportunity for fostering relationships of universal fraternity.” “Today, in our frequently secularized societies, it is very important that the religions be capable of fostering a mentality that sees Almighty God as the foundation of all good and the bulwark of a profound sense of universal brotherhood.“ — Verbum Domini, 117