The USCCB on proselytism...
.
Proselytism, or the deliberate targeting of another Christian or group of Christians for the sole purpose of getting them to reject their church to join another, is not allowed. Some people may feel called in conscience to change from one tradition to another, but “sheep stealing” is unacceptable. USCCB
.
The Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith does not equate proselytism with “sheep stealing,” but with coercion. In its 2007 Doctrinal Note on Some Aspects of Evangelization, the Congregation teaches:
.
The term proselytism originated in the context of Judaism, in which the term proselyte referred to someone who, coming from the gentiles, had passed into the Chosen People. So too, in the Christian context, the term proselytism was often used as a synonym for missionary activity. More recently, however, the term has taken on a negative connotation, to mean the promotion of a religion by using means, and for motives, contrary to the spirit of the Gospel; that is, which do not safeguard the freedom and dignity of the human person. It is in this sense that the term proselytism is understood in the context of the ecumenical movement. - Catholic Culture
.
H/T Pewsitters
This picture conveys a message that is troubling, to say the least.
ReplyDeleteWhy is "speaking the truth in charity" so awful, when compromise with evil is condemned in Scripture and Tradition?
Who is proselytizing when Christ's Truth is preached with conviction, charity and vigor?
Relativism would seem to be on the march here -- the Catholic church, in the first paragraph at least, would appear to be merely one of many "traditions". One might "feel" it necessary, perhaps, to change one's "tradtion" from time to time....that's just the way it is. You're OK, I'm OK.....
ReplyDeleteAs for the second and third paragraph, when, in recent decades, has "coercion" or disregarding the "freedom and dignity of the human person" occurred? This is wrong-headed ecumenism...
I should have specified, "in the Catholic world"....There has been plenty of other coercion, obviously, in the Islamic world.
ReplyDeleteEvery time I see that photo I feel sad.
ReplyDeleteThose damn Christmas boxes from Samaritans Purse are a proselytizing gimmick! ARGH! I wrote to my local paper about it once. They are totally in LUV with those damn boxes. I pointed out that they come with a religious message but every year this town sends more and more. It's that feel good factor.Oooh I am helping the poor Muslim children - who don't even celebrate Christmas!
ReplyDeleteUm...gee...I better find my meds. Sorry.