Catechesis Amidst Proselytism

4 The said suggestions can shed light on how we can do catechesis in the context of ecumenical dialogue. It is not our intention to “attack” them nor to compete with them. Guided by the teachings of the Church, we creatively think of ways on how to approach such pastoral dilemma in a way that both sides, ours and theirs, can attain the common good. As you noticed, there are no particular steps, pedagogically speaking, on how to do it. This task does not solely belong to those who are directly engaged in the catechetical ministry, specifically the catechists. By having a general view, the document would like to emphasize that this is not a burden for catechists alone but it is a common and shared praxis of the Church. Another thing that is of great importance on the given suggestions is that of Tradition. Taking the primary point to consider, Tradition is not a hindrance for enhancing ecumenical dialogue; rather it is and it can also be an aid to understand each others’ perspective of learning, living and celebrating. The Word of God is another source of faith that we and other Christian denominations have in common. By grounding our vision and mission, catechesis can be effective in this particular thrust. Even how diverse our perspectives are on understanding the Sacred Scriptures, but this plurality can be also a concrete manifestation of richness within Christianity. The Word of God is not just taking into varied interpretations. As we allow our diverse lives to be driven by its life-force (DBR YHWH), we are being fashioned according to its transformative power. Witnessing one’s profession of Christian faith without trying to undermine others’ confession is worthy of special consideration. It says that when we catechize towards restoration of Christian unity, Catholics must be aware that our identity as “catholics” must be actualized by way of showing an inclusive attitude towards other Christian denominations. It is in this way that mutual respect can be established. Even if they are responding to our offer negatively, at least, we take the initial step of opening our minds and hearts to theirs. The Church, Tradition, the Word of God and Christian Witnessing are indispensable elements in fashioning a kind of catechesis that bears an ecumenical thrust. These are not from the outside. These are from within the very life of the Church. How can we initiate some come concrete ways? I think this is more than just pedagogical. It is pastoral! Let me point out some ways that can be done. 1. Ecumenical Dialogue must be initiated in and by the Church. a. The leaders of the BEC/GKK and the Parish should identify people and denominations that are part of its vicinity. b. Invitation for this special task can be extended to them especially to their leaders. 2. The Church, at all levels, must have an opportunity to allow the faithful to experience what ecumenism is all about. a. Sharing of faith-experiences at GKK or Parish level may be initiated among the faithful that come from various Christian denominations. b. If the group has felt their need to have regular meeting, depending on their availability, the leaders must give support. c. Extend this little effort to other groups/age levels in the community. d. Co-responsibility can be a guiding principle in this endeavor. 3. Ecumenical Dialogue programs must be sustained by all available means (formation, service and worship). a. These programs never replace each denomination’s “confession of faith” but it is a way of providing sustainable programs that can enhance mutual respect. b. The three-fold principle can be a guiding principle in programming. After all, this principle is also true to most Christian denominations. 4. If other groups would like to take their chance to lead the said movement, the Church has to be open to this initiative.

5 5. Explore other possibilities on how this movement may grow and bear much fruit not only among Catholics. Since the movement is open for other Christian denominations, allow them also to participate. Hopefully, this initiative can give beneficial effects to our life as a Church as well as to other denominations. If both sides may come to know that all of us are journeying towards union with God even if we are walking on different paths, we cannot dare to hurt each other. Agape is ideal. But with our efforts it can be made real. What are the benefits that we can gain from this movement? What steps can be done in this catechetical ministry? 1. If catechists are living according to the very thought of Blessed John XXIII “Seek what unites, not what divides”, those initiatives can be resources for a fruitful catechesis. Our ministry is no longer driven by competition but by communion. 2. Catechists must also initiate some moves for dialogue with other teachers of faith of other Christian denominations. The aforementioned principles may also be followed. 3. More specifically, a dialogue on special concerns related to Catechesis/Religious Education can also be spearheaded so that both sides may know what they can learn from one another as well as its boundaries. 4. These initiatives should evolve in order that the process of growth and development can be experienced. The challenge today as a Church is to face the reality of plurality. While allowing ourselves to be driven by the Spirit of God, blowing us wherever He wills, fashioning us according to the image of Jesus, indeed, we are on our way to the Father. It is but natural to hear some pessimistic reactions. But as empowered by God’s vision of hope, we can where God is leading us and our ministry as well. It’s good that we have heard about this. But it is better if we know how to listen. In the Gospel, Jesus cured the deaf man by telling him “Ephatah!” which means “Be open!” As we open our lives always to the living presence of Jesus through His Word and the Sacraments, as catechists, we have to listen with a loving heart and an open mind to Jesus who also speaks to us in another dynamic way: through the signs of the times. By letting us encounter the challenges of proselytism, God is telling us that this is an opportunity for renewal. Look! By discovering the solution to those problems that we have identified can also be found within our reach, particularly within ourselves and according to the “fertile grounds”, God invites us to open our minds. Learn! By inviting us to be in dialogue with our brothers and sisters from other Christian denominations, God exhorts us to pay attentively with them and for them. Listen! By turning competition into communion out of mutual respect and solidarity as one Family of God in Christ Jesus by the Holy Spirit, we try to respond to God’s offer: Love! Look! Learn! Listen! Love!