This paper argues that Ludwig Wittgenstein's Das Sprachspiel assists in a better understanding and application of the Catholic Church's New Evangelization. Evangelization is the essence of the Church's identity and reflects her apostolic mark. In the face of an ever-changing world, the Church calls for an authentic renewal for a more effective communicaiton of the Gospel; thus, the call for a New Evangelization. The first part briefly presents the key elements, or "tools", in Wittgenstein's Language Game. The discussion is accompanied by his concept of das Lebensform, the social contexts in which language is used. The second part traces the development of New Evangelization in the life of the Church. This shall take inspiration from the vision of Vatican II, John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and ultimately in the contemporary appropriation of Francis. The last part engages Wittgenstein and the New Evangelization in dialogue. Throughout this section, the distinction and relation between knowing that (language) and knowing how (actions) were evident in the evaluation of the New Evangelization – after all, it is through the interwoven of the language and actions that the language game is formed. In the end, Wittgenstein's Das Sprachspiel assists in a better appreciation of the New Evangelization. The New Evangelization brings about inviting the people to engage with the Church’s form of life -- a fruit beautifully expressed in the process of inculturation. After all, the Gospel can be emotionally engaging but only when the Church finds a way to touch the listener's heart.

Authors:
John Mary Francis Nuqui, University of Santo Tomas, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Mr. John Mary Francis Nuqui is currently an instructor of Theology in the University of Santo Tomas. He specializes on Revelation and Faith, Christology, Ecclesiogy. Currently, he explores interreligious dialogue and ecumenism.

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