Redefining The Mission: Pope Francis’ Vision And The Contemporary Landscape Of India

Description

This volume explores Pope Francis’ vision of mission, synodality, and social justice, offering deep reflections from scholars and practitioners. Rooted in the insights from the 2023 symposium at St Peter’s Pontifical Institute, Bangalore, it examines the Church’s evolving role in India, interreligious dialogue, and the call for inclusivity and compassion.

“Pope Francis’ emphasis on synodality, inclusivity, and dialogue reflects a transformative ecclesiological vision. By fostering a culture of encounter and social friendship, he challenges us to look beyond individualism and division, advocating for a community rooted in mutual respect and solidarity. His thoughts on social justice, human dignity, and the common good urge us to reevaluate our societal structures and priorities, calling for a more just and compassionate world. The symposium held at St Peter’s Pontifical Institute Bangalore from 14th-16th November 2023 that inspired this book was a collective effort, with contributions from scholars and practitioners who engaged deeply with Pope Francis’ teachings. Their reflections, compiled here, provide a comprehensive examination of his pastoral discernment, addressing the pressing issues of our time while offering hopeful and practical pathways forward.”

† Bishop Lawrence PiusBishop of Dharmapuri
Vice-Chancellor of St Peter’s Pontifical Institute, Bangalore

“Through its pages, readers will encounter deeply insightful reflections. The readers will also be invited to reflect on how Pope Francis’s vision can inform and inspire the Church’s mission in India, from the importance of interreligious dialogue to the need for a more inclusive and compassionate Church. As we embark on this journey of redefining the mission we are reminded that the Church is not a static institution but a dynamic and living community that is called to respond to the needs of the world. May this book inspire and challenge us to embrace this call with courage, creativity, and a deep commitment to the values of the Gospel in India.”

† Bishop Ambrose Pitchamuthu
Bishop of Vellore

“The mission of the Church in the world is one of openness and inclusivity. This perspective defines Pope Francis’ approach to mission. The mission is to proclaim the Good News of liberation and wholeness to all, esspecially the most vulnerable, as well as the entirety of creation.The papers in this book explore various aspects of Pope Francis’ vision of mission, offering deep insights into his passion and commitment. They inspire readers to share in his dedication to spreading the Gospel and serving those in need.”

Prof. Dr Jacob Parappally MSFS
Chief Editor
Journal of Indian Theology

“Marshalling new thinking on different aspects of missiology, this volume is a novel attempt in reimagining the field of missiology during the Pontificate of Pope Francis. It offers readers new ways, avenues, and perspectives of understanding missiology as a central discipline in theology that integrates all other disciplines. Just as Late. Prof. Dr Felix Wilfred was the guiding force right from the beginning of the symposium, namely, conceiving the main title and its various themes, guiding every step taken by the department of Missiology at St Peter’s towards of the complete actualization of the symposium entitled ‘Redefining the Mission: Pope Francis’ Vision and the Contemporary Landscape of India,’ this volume is indeed one of the fitting tributes to his multi-faceted theological legacy.”

Rev. Dr James Ponniah, Head
i/c Department of Christian Studies
University of Madras.