Evangelization and Mission: A Roman Catholic Experience

Abstract

Evangelization in non-Christian lands has been an important aspect of Roman Catholic mission endeavor over the centuries, but it was during the nineteenth century when some of the most far-reaching missionary work was undertaken. The missionaries of this era were dedicated and self-sacrificing, responding to Christ's mandate, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations.” One outstanding mission leader was Francis Libermann, who had a vision for reaching Africans with the goal of quickly establishing a native church. Among those who were deeply influenced by his teachings were Father Francis Delaplace and Marie Moison, who founded the Servants of the Holy Heart of Mary in 1860, since expanded into many regions with a congregation of more than eight hundred.