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| PentecostalTheology.com
This report outlines the findings of the fourth phase (1990-1997) of the International Dialogue between the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and classical Pentecostal denominations. Initiated in 1972, this dialogue aims to foster mutual respect and understanding in faith and practice, identifying both agreements and areas requiring further discussion, rather than seeking structural unity. The Roman Catholic Church contributes official teachings, while the diverse Pentecostal movement provides a consensus position. Participants emphasized the advisory nature of their proposals, which focus specifically on evangelization, proselytism, and common witness—topics of contemporary relevance and historical tension between the two traditions. Both traditions share a foundational belief in the divine mandate to evangelize, proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ in obedience to the Great Commission. They agree on the core message of salvation through Christ’s death and resurrection, leading to individual conversion and the formation of an eschatological community (koinonia). While Catholic evangelization is often understood as a multifaceted process encompassing human renewal and integration into the Church, Pentecostals typically emphasize individual “new birth” and discipleship, empowered by the “baptism in the Spirit,” often with a keen sense of Christ’s imminent return. Despite these nuances, a growing convergence sees both traditions embracing evangelization as leading to individual conversion *and* the transformation of cultures. Mutual concerns were also raised regarding evangelistic practices that disrespect individuals or perpetuate social segregation, thereby undermining the Church’s universal nature. The dialogue affirmed a shared biblical grounding for mission in God’s redemptive purpose, with Jesus Christ as the message and the Holy Spirit as the inner dynamism. The Church, as a community (koinonia) empowered by charisms, serves as the context for salvation. Regarding evangelization and culture, both recognized the complexity, advocating for discerning positive cultural elements while transforming non-Christian cultures from within, cautioning against cultural imposition. Pentecostals highlighted their success in inculturation, particularly in the Global South, attributed to the Spirit’s freedom in diverse worship expressions. Catholics emphasized cultural evangelization through institutions and aesthetics, acknowledging past shortcomings in comprehensive Christian initiation. Both traditions expressed dismay over increasing secularization in Western societies and called for renewed Christian responses to modern ethical challenges, particularly those arising from technological advancements. Discussions on evangelization and social justice revealed initial divergent approaches. Pentecostals, while historically prioritizing individual spiritual needs and divine healing, asserted that their urgent focus on eternal salvation is inherently linked to social care. They view individual spiritual rebirth, empowered by the Spirit, as anticipating cosmic transformation, thus compelling engagement in both evangelism and social action. They contextualized their past lack of systematic structural reflection by noting historical marginalization and a New Testament emphasis on personal conversion. However, with increasing numerical strength and social mobility, Pentecostal communities are now more actively addressing broader social justice and human rights concerns, demonstrating a growing alignment with Catholic perspectives on these issues.
