Evangelization is the heartbeat of the Church’s mission. St. Paul VI, in his apostolic exhortation Evangelii Nuntiandi (1975), defined it as “bringing the Good News into all the strata of humanity and, through its influence, transforming humanity from within and making it new.” St. John Paul II echoed this in Redemptoris Missio (1990), declaring, “Evangelization is the Church’s deepest identity. She exists in order to evangelize.” This mission is not the exclusive domain of priests or religious; it is the sacred duty of every baptized Catholic. Evangelization is not limited to preaching Scripture-it is lived out daily in our encounters, attitudes, and actions toward others.

St. Francis of Assisi famously said, “Preach the Gospel at all times, and if necessary, use words.” St. Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa) urged, “Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” These call us to understand evangelization as both inviting others to faith and strengthening believers through love and authentic witness.

Today’s world often views the faithful as out of step or naïve, especially among youth. In Africa and beyond, where revolutionary social changes challenge traditional faith, the passion for Christ is waning among many laypeople. Yet, it is precisely the laity-who live and work among the people-who bear the responsibility to carry the flame of salvation. Why should priests alone be credited with converting souls when lay faithful are the Church’s frontline witnesses?

WHO ARE THE LAY FAITHFUL?
The lay faithful are baptized Christians devoted to the Church’s teachings. Baptism not only cleanses original sin but also incorporates us into Christ’s priesthood. Confirmation strengthens this calling, equipping us for the spiritual battle of evangelization. This battle is not just about preaching or public prayer; it is about living the Gospel in every interaction, every moment.

POPE FRANCIS ON YOUTH AND EVANGELIZATION
In Christus Vivit, Pope Francis reminds us that young people are not just the future but the present of the Church. He calls them to:

1.Live an Authentic Witness.

2.Share faith with joy and sincerity, inspiring others by a Christ-centered life.

3.Use Modern Tools Wisely, harness digital media responsibly to spread the Gospel, while guarding against its misuse.

4. Engage in a Synodal Church, Participate actively in Church life and decision-making, fostering a collaborative spirit.

5. Face Challenges Courageously, Overcome opposition and indifference through community, faith formation, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.(Matthew 5:13-16) calls all believers to be “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” As salt, we preserve faith and virtue; as light, we illuminate the world with Christ’s truth. Losing our “taste” or dimming our light is not an option.

FATHER CHETA'S URGENT CALL
“Serve God when you are young, God needs you now.” This message highlights the urgency for youth to embrace evangelization today-not tomorrow. Youth bring energy, creativity, and idealism essential for renewing the Church and society. Their faith is alive and powerful, capable of shaping families, schools, and communities.

PRACTICAL WAYS LAY FAIITHFUL CAN EVANGELIZE TODAY
1. Personal Witness: Live Christ-like lives in daily settings-work, school, family.

2. Catechesis: Teach and share the faith with children, peers, and adults; engage fully in parish life.

3. Social Media Evangelization: Use platforms like Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and WhatsApp to share uplifting Christian content and engage in respectful dialogue.

4. Charitable Works: Serve the poor, sick, and marginalized through organizations like St. Vincent de Paul and youth apostolates.

5. Defend the Faith: Know Church teachings well to answer questions and foster respectful conversations with non-Catholics

OVERCOMING EVANGELIZATION CHALLENGES
Fear of rejection or being labeled “too religious” can paralyze many. Yet, perseverance, prayer, and the Holy Spirit’s guidance empower us to witness boldly. Saints like St.Francis of Assisi and St. Gianna Beretta Molla show that lay people can be powerful evangelizers.

CONCLUSION
Evangelization is the shared mission of all Catholics. The lay faithful stand at the forefront, called to be salt and light in a world hungry for hope and truth. By living and proclaiming the Gospel daily, we transform not only ourselves but the world around us-renewing humanity from within, as St. Paul VI envisioned. The time is now. The mission is ours.