A Church for the World: The Church's Role in Fostering Democracy and Sustainable Development

The Church's Role in Fostering Democracy and Sustainable Development explores the church's relationship with the world, challenging misconceptions and practices that prevent it from living up to its transformational vocation. Contributors from non-Western theological communities offer perspectives on the church-world relationship, aiming to strengthen the church's self-understanding and address urgent needs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 284 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

A Church for the World: The Church's Role in Fostering Democracy and Sustainable Development presents a thought-provoking exploration for theologians and lay readers alike, delving into the complex relationship between the church and its responsibility to the world. It prompts us to contemplate how the church can actively contribute to democracy and promote sustainable development. Contributors from diverse non-Western theological backgrounds offer a wealth of historical, developmental, ecclesiastical, and theological perspectives, challenging prevailing misconceptions and practices that hinder the church from fulfilling its transformative calling as salt and light in the world (Matt. 5:13-16). At the heart of the questions and perspectives discussed in this book lies Gustavo Gutierrez's axiom from A Theology of Liberation: A theology that fails to address the most pressing needs of ordinary people is not truly worthy of the name "theology." Building upon this insight, this book aims to raise awareness about the interconnectedness of religion, democracy, and development, and seeks to enhance the church's self-understanding of its responsibilities in the global arena.

The church's role in fostering democracy and sustainable development is a multifaceted and complex issue that requires careful consideration. In this essay, we will explore the various ways in which the church can contribute to these goals.

Firstly, the church can play a crucial role in promoting social justice and equality. By advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, the church can help to create a more just and equitable society. This can include supporting policies that promote gender equality, racial justice, and economic empowerment, as well as providing resources and support to those who are struggling to meet their basic needs.

Secondly, the church can promote sustainable development by advocating for environmental protection and climate change mitigation. By promoting sustainable practices and encouraging individuals and communities to reduce their carbon footprint, the church can help to mitigate the effects of climate change and create a more sustainable future for all.

Thirdly, the church can promote democracy by promoting civic engagement and political participation. By encouraging its members to get involved in local politics and community organizations, the church can help to build a more engaged and informed citizenry. This can include providing education and training on political issues, as well as organizing voter registration drives and other civic engagement activities.

Finally, the church can promote peace and stability by promoting dialogue and understanding between different cultures and religions. By fostering interfaith dialogue and cooperation, the church can help to reduce tensions and conflicts that can lead to violence and instability.

In conclusion, the church has a vital role to play in fostering democracy and sustainable development. By promoting social justice, environmental protection, civic engagement, and interfaith dialogue, the church can help to create a more just and equitable world. However, it is important for the church to be aware of its own limitations and to work in partnership with other organizations and individuals to achieve these goals.

Weight: 431g
Dimension: 219 x 154 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978710795