Gustavo Gutiérrez, Pioneer of Liberation Theology, Passes Away at 96

Gustavo Gutiérrez's contributions to liberation theology and advocacy for the marginalized have left a profound impact on Catholic social teachings and social justice movements.

Gustavo Gutiérrez, the esteemed Peruvian priest and intellectual often hailed as the founder of liberation theology, passed away on Tuesday in Lima, Peru, at the age of 96. His death was confirmed by the Dominican Order in Peru, whereby the news was widely reported by media outlets like The Associated Press.

Gutiérrez's most influential work, “Teología de la Liberación” (A Theology of Liberation), first published in the early 1970s, provided a theological framework advocating for the poor and highlighting their struggles against systemic injustices. His arguments emphasized that the divine nature of God, as understood in Jewish and Christian contexts, demonstrates a deep preference for those living in poverty. This doctrine challenged long-standing theological perspectives that deferred salvation solely to the afterlife, positing instead that liberation from socio-economic suffering could—and should—be sought in the present world.

Gutiérrez's work not only inspired theological discourse but also influenced social movements across the globe. His ideas found resonance in contemporary discussions around basic human rights issues in the United States, especially concerning access to housing and healthcare. His teachings remain integral to many seminaries and universities, continuing to inform a new generation of theologians and activists.

Moreover, Gutiérrez insisted that acknowledging a preferential option for the poor did not imply romanticizing poverty; rather, it necessitated confronting it as a societal evil and striving for its eradication. Through his advocacy, he urged the Church and its followers to engage actively in improving the conditions of the oppressed, rooting spirituality in acts of justice.

As news of his passing reverberates through academia and religious communities, Gutiérrez's legacy as a champion for the marginalized and as an agent of social change will undoubtedly be remembered and celebrated.