Dear Editor,
On October 22 2004, the church of America mourned the passing of theologian Gustavo Gutierrez, best known for his influential work “Liberation Theology” published nearly fifty years ago.
This book, aimed at the “poor masses,” marked a significant shift in theological exchanges, emphasizing local practices and theologies. Central to his theology was the “option for the poor,” focusing on the marginalized and those suffering under oppressive systems. Gutierrez’s goal was not to create rigid doctrines but to help ordinary people interpret their lives through the Gospel, emphasizing orthopraxis—right practice—instead of orthodoxy.
His educational journey took him across Europe, where he studied various disciplines before becoming a Dominican priest in 1999. He chose the religious order to find sanctuary from the ultra-conservative Cardinal. Juan Luis Cipriani of Opus Dei. Despite receiving numerous honours and lecturing worldwide, Gutierrez remained dedicated to his roots in Lima, living in impoverished neighbourhoods and engaging directly with the community.
He believed theology must respond to social realities, questioning how to convey God’s love to the poor. His later work included a revised version of “Liberation Theology,” reflecting on his earlier ideas. Supported by Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller, Gutierrez’s contributions continue to shape contemporary theological thought, leaving a lasting legacy.
Reading his inspiring books on liberation theology, especially the one entitled “We Drink from Our Own Well,” I found is very relevant to Guyana and the developing world poor and struggling masses. May his theology continue to inspire others generating paradigm shifts and relevant ones that address the changes, especially regarding the poor and downtrodden in the modern world.
A job well done, Viva Gustavo Gutierrez!
Sincerely,
Medino Abraham