The role of evangelization in enhancing spiritual life in Mubende Parish in light of Evangelii Nutiandi

Abstract

This research was carried on the topic: “The role of evangelization in enhancing spiritual life in Mubende Parish in light of Evangelii Nuntiandi”. The central problem was in the decline in the spiritual life of the lay faithful in the Parish. This was observed in situations like Christians leaving the Church, witchcraft and sorcery, sexual immorality, syncretistic tendencies and indifference in spiritual exercises. The Researcher intended to see to it that the spiritual life of these Christians is given a boost and revived. The researcher chose to be enlightened by the Apostolic Exhortation, Evangelii Nuntiandi, of Pope Paul VI to see how evangelization in light of this document can enhance the spiritual life of the people of Mubende Parish. The other specific objectives that guided this research included: To explore how evangelization has impacted the people of Mubende Parish; To explore what the people of Mubende Parish understand by evangelization; To explore the challenges evangelization has faced in Mubende Parish; Lastly, to determine the solutions to the raised problem. Basing on these objectives, the findings of the research showed that most of the people had a fair understanding of evangelization. However, through the new approaches to evangelization given by Evangelii Nuntiandi, the spiritual life of the people could be revived. Despite the various challenges faced in the evangelization activity of the Church in Mubende Parish, solutions were also very possible if at all the proper measures suggested had been taken seriously and in good spirit. Witness of life, above all else, was cited and emphasized as the most suitable and effective means/ method of evangelization. This does not belong only to a certain class or group of people, or even it does not exclude anyone; but rather it was seen as that which had to be observed and practiced by all People of God. The intercessory role of the Blessed Virgin Mary in this ministry of evangelization was cited as one that could not be overlooked. Finally, this study emphasized the fact that evangelization can never be effective or yield good results minus the involvement of the Holy Spirit who is the “Chief Evangelizer”. For He is the one to give the strength, the wisdom, and to direct the mission of evangelization in its proper order.