Evangelization in the Work of Salesians

Abstract

Around the concept and process of evangelization, that is around both the theory and practice of this process, a lot of doubts have appeared in recent years. Nearly all educational, formative activities undertaken in the Church, not only with respect to children and young people, but with respect to adults as well, are defined with the use of this word.

However, in the practice of the ancient Church propagating Christ, conversion, preparation for baptism, catechesis presenting the meaning of rites and introducing one into the life of the Church were integrally connected with the evangelization process. This process has been radically reversed in modern times. In parish catechesis basically there is no evangelization process preceding it; also teaching religion at school cannot undertake all evangelization tasks, as the nature of education does not allow this. Since young people constantly need adults who accompany them and educate them in the proper way, the Salesian order whose vocation is Christian education of children and young people, should be open to evangelization of parents and adults, as it is only such evangelization that may contribute to efficient educational work.