Caste or Christ? : A Christian Theological and Pastoral Response to Promoting Relational Equality (Praktische Theologie im Dialog / Théologie pratique en dialogue)

Arul, Philip Xavier

Schwabe Verlag Basel（2025/12発売）

• 製本 Paperback:紙装版/ペーパーバック版
• 商品コード 9783796554377

Description

Past experiences teach us that material guarantees alone cannot create an egalitarian society. In addition, and even prior to them, concrete and continuous efforts with strong policies are needed to foster relational equality - encompassing human dignity, social respect, and solidarity. Christianity can help achieve this, as it profoundly believes in the equality of all humanity.

This book explores why caste-based social divisions persist among Indian Christians, identifying three key causes of caste perpetuation. Furthermore, it argues theologically that promoting relational equality must precede distributive equality. Last but not least, it offers practicable pastoral steps to build an authentic relational Church rooted in God's Word. A valuable tool to help free individuals trapped by any form of "-ism".

Born in Tamil Nadu, South India, Philip Xavier Arul - a Catholic priest for twenty-two years - is devoted to promoting relational equality within the Church in India. His sermons, writings, and personal interactions reflect his commitment to fostering human relationships beyond borders, rooted in the belief that authentic communion with others leads to communion with God.