The missionary meeting started with a recollection talk given by Rev.Fr. Vineet, Priest of Varanasi Diocese on theme: HOLY SPIRIT AND MISSION on July 11, 2013. Continuing the theme, the rest of the sessions were conducted by Most Rev.Raphy Manjaly, Bishop of Varanasi on the theme: Holy Spirit, Mission and New Evangelization. The New Evangelization entails to have vision, mission, target group and context and methodology. It was pointed out that the target group is (1) baptized, but not practicing Christianity; (2) drifted and lapsed Christians; (3) persons, who have no real, personal and dynamic relationship with Christ and his Church in the context of relativism, secularism and godless culture. It is stated that the three key features of New Evangelization are:
New Evangelization calls for a new ardour- passion
New Evangelization is Christo-centric rather than ecclesio-centric – new method
New Evangelization is thoroughly street-aware, i.e. conscious of today’s cultural context – culturally conscious expression – culturally conscious expression.
The meeting was concluded with a pastoral plan or road map for new evangelization on July 12, 2013.
