Abstract

In a recent proposal, “prophetic dialogue” has been suggested as the most appropriate category for describing the task of Christian mission today. This paper explores the significance and implications of “prophetic dialogue” for the task of practical theology. Whereas “prophecy” gives priority to the word of God in scripture and tradition, “dialogue” highlights the importance of respectful human, cultural, and religious encounter. Both components are necessary; their relationship is dialectical. Whether we are concerned with worship and liturgy, prayer and contemplation, justice and peace, the integrity of creation, interreligious dialogue, evangelization, inculturation, or reconciliation, prophetic dialogue is a foundational category for gauging the effectiveness and authenticity of the theological task. Raimon Panikkar's “cosmotheandric dialogue” and the “triple dialogue” advocated by Asian theologians are two possible avenues for advancing practical theology as “prophetic dialogue.”