Whatʼs New about Renewal in Evangelii Gaudium?

Abstract

Evangelii Gaudium sketches a vision of ecclesial renewal through deepening participation in evangelization. This vision is supported by a theology of renewal that holds together human and divine agency and distinguishes persons, practices and structures; a theology of the church that finds its identity in the dynamic of evangelization; and a theology of newness that focuses on the incarnation and the good news that proclaims it. While these foundations build on significant previous sources, there is something both creative and distinctive in how Pope Francis weaves them together. Although the parallels with recent WCC documents in related areas are not all that strong and the presentation of ecumenism itself in Evangelii Gaudium is rather marginal, there is an opportunity for reconnecting ecumenism to renewal through sharing its vision and the journey that might follow from it, as consideration of the Church of England’s recent Programme of Reform and Renewal indicates.