Kościół rzymskokatolicki wobec dialogu ludzi wierzących z niewierzącymi u schyłku XX wieku

Abstract

It can undoubtedly be said that the teaching of the Second Vatican Council and the popes of the second half of the 20th century on the subject of atheism is evangelical in tone. Instead of condemning or isolating the Church from the world it offers a kind dialogue with those who do not believe and its aim is to create an atmosphere of openess and brotherhood. It should be remembered, however, that this post-council opening of the Church does not result from the fact that Christians feel a minority in the world, but it is an expression of the deepening of the awareness of the dignity of a human being. This is also an expression of the maturing of Christian doctrine as far as faith and religious freedom are concerned. In the world today both believers and non-believers are called to act together for the benefit of their local communities, their motherland, the world. Care for the poor and for those who are in need, for social justice and peace, for reconciliation and peaceful co-existence of people from different cultures and with different standpoints, resisting social and economic inequality, fighting terrorism, respect for the dignity of every man and woman are all examples of activities which might and should unite Christians and non-believes all over the world.