Msgr. Pope on the Biblical Meaning of Dialogue

"There is much emphasis today on the concept of 'dialogue.' Most English speakers simply equate the word with 'discussion' and English-speaking Catholics hear a lot about how the Church should be in 'dialogue' with the world.

"Of itself 'dialogue,' understood merely as having a discussion or conversation, is surely a good thing. Discussions and conversations set the framework for understanding, for evangelization and the conveying of the truth. In this sense dialogue is good and understandable as something which keeps the door open, so to speak.

"But there are some of us (your current author included) who are troubled by the use of this word in the rather unqualified sense. . . ."

In a recent commentary Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on the importance of a proper understanding of dialogue in the biblical sense ("as a clear articulation of the reasonableness of our faith").

To access Msgr. Pope's complete post, please visit:

Community in Mission: Dubious about Dialogue - A Reflection on a much used term that has lost its Biblical meaning (17 JAN 24)