MISSIONARY SPIRITUALITY OF ST. CHARLES DE FOUCAULD: THE SPIRIATULITY OF KENOSIS AND A CALL FOR UNIVERSAL FRIENDSHIP

This paper explores the missionary spirituality of St. Charles de Foucauld, emphasizing his embodiment of universal fraternity and his prophetic model of evangelization through presence, prayer, and fraternal witness. The primary aim is to examine how his life among Muslims and the marginalized in the Sahara presents a paradigm for contemporary interreligious dialogue and missionary outreach. By analyzing his memoir writings, historical context, and spiritual development especially his principle of double identification with both Christ and the poor the study highlights theology of kenosis that rooted in the hidden life of Jesus in Nazareth. This research argues that Foucaulds witness remains relevant today, particularly in a world marked by religious plurality and socio-cultural fragmentation. The paper concludes that his spirituality offers a transformative vision for Christian mission: not through propaganda, but through humble presence, shared humanity, and communion with all as universal brother.

Methodology:This research employs a qualitative and theological-historical method, combining biographical analysis with theological reflection. Primary sources such as the writings, letters, and prayers of St. Charles de Foucauld are examined alongside official Church documents (e.g., Nostra Aetate,Rerum Novarum, Evangelii Gaudium, Fratelli Tutti, Redemptoris Missio) and scholarly interpretations to uncover key elements of his missionary spirituality. The research analyzes his life in its socio-historical context and reflects on how his spiritual practices and theological convictions inform contemporary approaches to mission and interreligious dialogue. It also draws on practical pastoral insights to connect Foucaulds example with the lived experience of Christian mission today.