Sunday Homilies and the Anthropology of Catholic Social Teaching: Theological and Cultural Dialogue

Abstract: This research explores how Sunday homilies reflect and convey Catholic Social Teaching (CST) through a cultural-anthropological lens. The objective is to assess how homilies engage with Rwandan anthropological values, such as ubumwe (unity), Ubuntu (human dignity), and gukunda umurimo (dignity of work), to promote social transformation. The hypothesis is that culturally contextualized CST homilies have a measurable influence on people’s social consciousness and engagement. A total of 100 CUR students participated in a survey, and 30 were involved in focus groups discussing homilies heard over 10 Sundays homilies in cathedral parish of Butare and its centrales. Homilies were also thematically analyzed for CST principles. Statistical analysis revealed that 81% of students recalled homilies that explicitly addressed justice or reconciliation themes, and 59% indicated they took action as a result of such preaching. Furthermore, 74% affirmed that the inclusion of local wisdom made the homily more compelling. However, only 35% of students found consistent application of CST in Sunday preaching. The study concludes that while CST themes are often present in Sunday homilies, their deeper cultural embodiment varies by preacher and location. The integration of Rwandan anthropological values with CST in preaching strengthens faith-based ethical action. The research recommends structured training for clergy and theology students on CST and indigenous ethical frameworks, enhancing the transformative power of Sunday homilies among young Catholic leaders.

Keywords: Catholic Social Teaching, Sunday Homilies, Anthropology, Theology, Social Transformation, moral formation.

List of Acronyms

CST: Catholic Social Teaching

CUR: Catholic University of Rwanda.