Pope John Paul on Inculturation

This work undertakes a philosophical analysis and study of the thought of John Paul II on inculturation and evangelization. It investigates the development of the Pope's thought on inculturation and argues that inculturation is the central theme that unifies the Pope's encyclical. The relationship between inculturation and evangelization is argued for, with particular attention to the analysis of such themes as: creation as inculturation, incarnation as inculturation, and evangelization as inculturation. The text then argues that the relationships between these themes are not only reciprocal but hermeneutical. It also focuses on the relationship between hermeneutics and inculturation and argues that hermeneutics is the most rational foil for understanding the mechanics and the logic of inculturation. The text shows how inculturation, as proposed by Pope John Paul II, serves as a unifying principle that would usher in a new world order (intellectually and socially). Such world vision would allow for cooperation and unity between nations of varied cultures, and thus, allow for the development of a Christian and world community where peaceful co-existence would be a priority. This is the hope of the Pope's gospel of 'Evangelization 2000.'