Conference paper
Presbyter - Preacher of the Gospel in a Democratic Society
Marin Srakić
Abstract
Contemporary democratic society imposes, new pastoral challenges on priests. Therefore, if we want to stay true to the fundamental mission of a priest - preaching of the Gospel - we should search for new forms of pastoral activities and new occasions for preaching the God's Word. It is important to perceive the advantages offered by a democratic society, such as recognition and respect for dignity and
liberty of the human person, requirements for higher level of maturity and responsability of citizens. However, there are also difficulties presented by such a society, like e.g. "the law of maiority", pluralism in thought, which are appropriate for "permissive laws", subjectivism and freedom abuse. Under these circumstances, priests are called upon to preach the crucified Christ, this time with a strong feeling of ecclesiasticism and spiritual union. Besides, it is also important to go to meet people, especially those on the edge of Christianity, and act as consciousness of the society when required. Prophetic homilies, parish catechesis, pastoral letters, pastoral meetings, speakers platforms, functions, catechism in schools and
kindergartens, mass media - they are all only some of the means available to us.
Nevertheless, the Holy scripture and church documents, especially the sacrament of reconciliation and communication of faith through personal witnessing, will still remain irreplaceable when it comes to preaching the Word of God.
Keywords
priest; preaching the Gospel; democratic society; pastoral; sacraments; prophetic homily; catechesis; catechism
Hrčak ID:
40233
URI
Publication date:
27.5.2002.
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