The evangelisation of the Catholic Church in Southern Africa : community serving humanity.

Abstract

This thesis critically examines the Pastoral Plan of the Catholic Church in Southern Africa “Community Serving Humanity” and its evangelical and participatory role of evangelisation and social transformation including its reception by the Southern African Catholic community. The aim and nature of the Pastoral Plan remains with building a Church that is a real community where the people of God experience love as sisters and brothers. This calls for better ministerial service delivery and a share in God’s universal plan (God’s Mission, Missio Dei). The issue of facilitating formation and transformation to ensure “Community Serving Humanity”, requires serious discussion or dialogue, where proposed useful community building ministries are exercised. For example, the Pastoral Plan factors in implementations abound in Small Christian Communities, The Renew Process; and Task Groups (SACBC 1989:19). Are they still relevant today? They can still bring transformation in a new different way in the new South Africa (a heart and society change). In view of this there is also a comparison between the communities past and present. The research brings understanding whereby the history of the Catholic Church community in Southern Africa, Pastoral Plan formulation and implementation, and theological perspectives are presented. The research incorporates interview material with persons involved in the Pastoral Plan’s origins and initial implementation.