Evangelizing in a Secular Age

Catalog description

Taught by DSPT. The "new evangelization" first proposed by Paul VI and strongly endorsed by St. John Paul II reaches far beyond older definitions of mission outreach. In this present moment, wrestling with the "dictatorship of relativism" (Pope Benedict XVI) and the call to god's mercy (Pope Francis), religious educators have a duty to understand the times and to respond accordingly. An appropriate response demands of the educator and minister the high levels of integration and a deep personal faith. At issue is the debate between seeing God's hand and sensing an absence of religious influence and authority in the public square. This course examines the complexity of this present moment in both the church and culture within a North American context. By examining the cumulative impacts of globalization and secularization and by referencing prophetic voices addressing these evolving realities, the students will become conversant with various models of theology and spirituality which aptly demonstrate and reinforce the conviction that the gospels are up to the challenges and tasks presented in this milieu. Among many of these prophetic voices has risen a discernible strain advocating the power of the shared journey of faith and a spirituality of accompaniment. A special focus will be given to various models of this shared journey as a fecund response to this challenging new moment. The course is designed for delivery by lecture, personal reading, and group discussion integrating three reflection papers designed for three distinct movements in the examination of this historical and cultural moment.