Evangelism: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'evangelism' for discussions revolving around the spreading of religious faith, particularly in a Christian context, through preaching or personal witness.

• The church holds weekly evangelism events in the community park.
• She is passionate about evangelism and shares her faith at every opportunity.

Employ 'missionary work' when referring to religious activities that involve traveling to different places, often abroad, to spread a religious message and sometimes involve community service.

• He dedicated his life to missionary work in remote villages in Africa.
• The organization funds missionary work to help build schools and hospitals.

'Proselytizing' often has a negative connotation and is used when someone actively tries to convert others to their religion, sometimes in a pushy or unwelcome manner.

• His proselytizing at the office made many of his coworkers uncomfortable.
• They were accused of proselytizing at the event, which was supposed to be non-religious.

'Outreach' is best used in general contexts of extending help or services, including but not limited to religious activities. It can be secular or religious in nature.

• The local charity runs an outreach program to help the homeless.
• The church's outreach efforts include food drives and free medical clinics.