Ad Gentes

Decree on the Mission Activity of the Church

Second Vatican Council; solemnly promulgated by St. Paul VI1965-12-07Current

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Overview

Explains the Church's missionary nature and gives principles for evangelization, forming local churches, missionary vocations, and cooperation in mission.

Why This Document Matters

It grounds Catholic mission in the Trinity and the Church's identity rather than treating mission as an optional program.

Historical Context

Promulgated at Vatican II's conclusion as the council addressed global mission, decolonization, and the growth of local churches.

Authority and Status

Genre: Ecumenical Council Decree
Authority class: Ecumenical council decree
Juridical force: Doctrinal, pastoral, and disciplinary
Current status: Current
Promulgated: 1965-12-07

A decree of an ecumenical council, solemnly promulgated by the pope, combining theological teaching with pastoral and organizational direction.

Key Points

MissionEvangelizationLocal ChurchesMissionaries

Major Themes

MissionEvangelizationLocal ChurchesMissionariesFormation

Related CatholicG33k Resources

Official Text

Ad Gentes

The official document text is hosted by the Holy See. CatholicG33k provides contextual and educational material but does not reproduce the complete Vatican text here.

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