Hey there,
Years ago, I found myself in a pro sports stadium (which shall remain nameless) with a coworker and a photographer, hoping to get permission to use the space for a client’s photoshoot. Just as we were making our request, the decision-maker cut us off and announced very seriously that he believed one of us had been brought there to be saved.
What followed was 45 painfully long minutes of us nodding politely, wide-eyed and speechless, while he tried to convert us. Awkward doesn’t quite cover it. We did eventually get the approval we needed … and a story we’ve never forgotten.
That’s the kind of moment many of us picture when we hear the word evangelize. Or worse, we imagine someone on a street corner shouting Bible verses and warnings of fire and brimstone. No wonder Catholics tend to shy away from the topic. We tell ourselves, that’s not what we do.
And yet, bringing others to the faith is part of our calling … hopefully in a way that looks nothing like those examples. We don’t talk about evangelization much, and we’re not doing it much either. Maybe that’s a sign it’s time for a closer look.
That’s why this week’s issue of Genuflect focuses on evangelization … what it really is, why Catholics often avoid it, and how we can share the Good News in ways that are authentic, inviting, and faithful to who we are.
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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Evangelization Overview
Evangelization shouldn’t be a strategy, but a real change that starts within a person and gradually shapes the world around them. Here’s how the Gospel works in hearts and communities in ways that are simple, powerful, and often unexpected.
What is Evangelization? | USCCB
10 Reasons Why Catholics Don’t Evangelize
Surveys show a striking gap between how Catholics and other Christians view evangelization, suggesting it plays only a minimal role in many Catholics’ understanding of their faith. Father Dwight Longenecker presents 10 reasons why we Catholics don’t evangelize.
10 Reasons Why Catholics Don’t Evangelize | National Catholic Register
Why we Have to Evangelize
We tend to think that faith is meant to stay private between God and us. J.P. Nunex explains why sharing it matters … that evangelization isn’t just for missionaries, but a basic part of what every Catholic is called to do.
Why we Have to Evangelize | Catholic Stand
10 Keys to Effective Evangelization
Here is a practical framework for spiritual renewal and evangelization. It outlines a set of key principles that move from purpose to daily practice and outward mission.
Ten Keys to Effective Evangelization | Catholic Culture
3 Ways to Evangelize
Using Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen as an example, this article shows that meaningful evangelization often requires sacrifice, effort, and stepping outside our comfort zone. It reminds us that sharing the faith is rarely easy, but the good it can accomplish makes the discomfort worthwhile. Here are three ways to evangelize.
“Get Uncomfortable”: 3 Inspiring Ways Catholics Can Effectively Evangelize | ChurchPOP
More Ways to Evangelize
You may think that evangelization is about correcting others or preaching at them. It doesn’t have to be. Here are ways to evangelize through simply living the faith with joy and consistency—especially in ordinary, secular settings—that can quietly and powerfully share the Gospel.
Evangelizing as a Lay People | Catholic Mom
Evangelize Without Seeming to
There are things you can do to evangelize without being so obvious. Here are 5 easy things you can do that aren’t pushy and don’t require you to memorize speeches.
5 Ways to Evangelize, Without Seeming to | Aleteia
Using Social Media
Social Media can be brutal. Maybe you’re not as active anymore like me or you’ve even considered deleting your account. Victoria Cardona explores some things you can do on social media to make it joyful and evangelize.
Should I Delete my Instagram or Use it to Evangelize? | Blessed is She
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Digital Inspiration
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