Evangelization

Evangelization is the proclamation of the Good News of Jesus Christ to all people — the primary mission of the Church, entrusted to her by Christ himself. "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19; CCC 849, 905).

The Mission of the Church

The Church exists in order to evangelize. This is not one mission among many — it is the essential mission from which all others flow. The Church evangelizes by proclaiming the Word, celebrating the sacraments, engaging in works of charity and justice, and by the witness of her members' lives (CCC 849).

The New Evangelization

The "New Evangelization" — a phrase associated with St. John Paul II — refers to the renewed effort to evangelize those who have already been baptized but have drifted from active faith. It is not a new Gospel but the same Gospel proclaimed with new ardor, new methods, and new expressions to people who were once Christian (CCC 854).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is evangelization the same as proselytism? No. Proselytism refers to coercive, manipulative, or disrespectful attempts to win converts. Evangelization respects the freedom and dignity of the person — it offers the truth in love, never forcing or manipulating. The Church firmly rejects proselytism while embracing genuine evangelization (CCC 856).

Who is called to evangelize? Every baptized person is called to evangelize — by their words, their witness of life, and their prayer. Evangelization is not only for priests and missionaries; it is the vocation of every member of the Body of Christ (CCC 905).