Evangelisation

Evangelisation, or evangelization, is a term used in Christian contexts to describe the act of proclaiming the gospel and inviting others to faith in Jesus Christ, often with the aim of conversion or deeper commitment. The word derives from Late Latin evangelizatio, from Greek euangelion, meaning “good news.” In Catholic, Anglican, Protestant, and Orthodox traditions, evangelisation encompasses both proclamation of beliefs and the expression of faith through service and social action.

Historically, evangelisation began in the apostolic era with the spreading of the gospel by the early Christians. It expanded through medieval missionary activity, the era of global exploration, and the Protestant Reformation. In the modern era, organized missions, theological training, and religious orders aided cross-cultural dissemination of Christian teaching. Since the Second Vatican Council, Catholic usage has emphasized the “new evangelisation”—re-evangelising secularized or culturally diverse regions—alongside humanitarian and development work. Other Christian traditions place varying emphasis on proclamation, personal witness, and social engagement.

Methods of evangelisation include preaching, personal testimony, catechesis, mission work, media outreach, and digital media. Contextualisation and inculturation are often employed to present the gospel in culturally relevant terms while seeking to maintain core doctrinal commitments. Debates surrounding evangelisation commonly address concerns about freedom of belief, respect for other cultures and religions, and the balance between proclamation and social action. The term is primarily used within Christianity, though some contexts describe broader religious outreach under similar concepts.