Towards a theocentric approach: Missio ad gentes in the context of religious pluralism

This study revisits the Second Vatican Council of the Catholic Church decree Ad Gentes on the mission activity of the Church; it examines its relevance in the context of contemporary religious pluralism. The primary objective of this paper is to underscore the importance of recognizing religious pluralism as an undeniably global reality, particularly in a world marked by profound cultural differences. The impact of religious pluralism has drastically changed the landscape of mission and warrants a careful understanding of its dialogical relationship to the missionary activity of the Catholic Church and diverse religious traditions. This study furthers that mission must adapt to varied cultural and religious contexts. Since Vatican II, there has been a heightened emphasis on developing plural theologies. This research study advocates for a paradigm shift in mission, moving forward with a theocentric approach that better addresses the complexities of religious pluralism. Such an approach reshapes the Church’s mission and guides the formation of Christians in a world of diverse beliefs. The study concludes that a theologically grounded theocentric approach, starting with human experience and contextual realities, is essential for a meaningful dialogue and mission in a pluralistic world. This shift enriches the Church’s theological discourse and missionary endeavors.