Evangelization in Terms of Indigenous Latin-American Theology

Abstract

Indigenous theology, which appeared in Latin America in the mid-1980s, practiced by the followers of Christ, wants to serve the dialogue between native religions and Christianity. It has its method, its subject is the faithful people, and the main object of reflection is the spiritual experience accumulated in native cultures since pre-Columbian times. Indigenous theology wants to contribute to evangelization attracting people and to the authentic inculturation of the faith in areas inhabited by native Amerindians. An analysis of the texts written by Indigenous theologians leads to the discovery of how this theology is practiced, and especially what its view of evangelization is. Despite its shortcomings and doubtful approaches from the perspective of Catholic orthodoxy, indigenous theology can enliven the Church-wide discussion on evangelization and contribute to its dynamism in modern times.