An Ecumenical Approach to Evangelization 

By Chloe JonPaul

As am an ordinary lay Catholic, I never thought much about ecumenism, preferring to leave that topic to theologians. The term, evangelization simply reminded me of Jehovah’s witnesses knocking on my door. 

A dramatic change took place for me as I began to feel the need to share some spiritual thoughts and events happening in my life with family and friends. I felt drawn to do this through email and the Internet. I prayed for guidance from the Holy Spirit and a new journey began. 

For example, posting to my friends on Facebook has resulted in as many as over 100 likes and numerous comments. I have posted simple thoughts like the following: *Most holy, majestic, and Undivided Trinity, I kneel before you in humble adoration. Infuse me with Your spirit, Your love, and your grace that I may walk worthily in Your footsteps this day”. *How about putting a little pep in your life today? Try patience, endurance, and perseverance! * As I awake each morning, this is what I say: “Thank You, Lord! I’m one day closer to Eternity. Come walk the earth with me today.” 

Bringing the Good News

Pope Francis in a 2014 General Audience tells us that 

Division is a wound in the body of the Church of Christ, and we do not want that wound to remain open.” The themes of unity, fellowship, and collaboration are central to the concept of ecumenism. Evangelization simply means to share religious beliefs with other people. As Christians doing this, we are “bringing good news. 

Effective Evangelization

Effective evangelization is made up of three elements. As a “ wordless witness”, people will be attracted by the way you live. As a “word-filled witness”, you can make your reasons known to persons who ask you your reasons for your beliefs. As a “person-to-person witness”, you have the opportunity to seek out people you know and show them what God has done for you. 

On Facebook alone, there are quite a few groups that host Christian thinking. I have been quite active with Catholics with Depression, God Winks, Guidepost, and several other groups. 

Years ago, after the 9-11 fiasco, I decided to carry something special in my purse. I did a lot of international flights and it occurred to me that if Muslim terrorists were on the plane that I could pull out the slip of paper in my purse and greet them by saying ”As-Salaam-Alaikum”. It translates into “May peace be with you”, a blessing given to someone to make them feel welcomed.

Fortunately, I never had to use it with terrorists but I did use it on a recent flight to Portugal. I encountered a Muslim businessman on board and smiling, I greeted him with this Arabic blessing. He was delighted! We then engaged in a very pleasant conversation since he spoke English. I told him that we are all children of God and that I respect people of all denominations. 

So… yes, ecumenism and evangelization can go hand in hand! 

What God Looks for in Our Lives by Chloe Jon Paul

In order to cultivate a more spiritual and fulfilling lifestyle, Chloe Jon Paul details how to implement healthy daily habits such as prayer and reflections of gratitude. Readers are encouraged to look to biblical and religious figures, both saints and sinners, for inspiration and encouragement. Periodically inserting anecdotes from the author’s own life, she creates a guideline for following God’s intended path for His children.