Abstract
Given the 50th anniversary of the promulgation of the Decree on the Catholic Church’s Missionary Activity, Ad Gentes, there has been much debate and dialogue concerning the reception of this document in the life of the Church. This dialogue and debate has been fruitful and illuminating, though it has sometimes neglected to include a longer historical perspective that involves the theology of mission prior to the council. The purpose of this article is twofold, namely, to reflect on the continuing relevance of Ad Gentes, and to critically engage some of the contemporary debates concerning the theology of mission, in light of pre-conciliar mission theology. It will be argued that, though the theology of mission from before the council was far from perfect or complete, it does in fact complement the teaching of Vatican II, and can even contribute to contemporary reflection on mission theology.
Published Version
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