Wolontariat chrześcijański wyrazem czynnej miłości bliźniego

Abstract

In the foreword the author speaks about the need to take into consideration within the Christian formation and education the contents which come from the theology of the active love of the neighbour which may be expressed in the commitment on behalf of voluntary service. The paper has been worked out on the basis of the experiences of the Italian Church described broadly in technical literature. Typical traits characteristic of voluntary service have been shown here, its form, place and role in the community of the Church. The paper stresses the need to activate the faithful which is effected through the search for new pastoral forms, through formation, and the testimony of Christians engaged in voluntary service, which replaces incoherent spontaneity of „good deeds”, continuity of a well-orchestrated service on behalf of the people who need various forms of help. The voluntary service of Christianity is one of the forms by which to realize the diaconal function of the Church, being the great sacrament of God’s love in the history of people.