Pope John Paul II’s 1990 encyclical suggests a very broad and egalitarian approach to inculturation:
206. “Inculturation must involve the whole People of God, and not just a few experts, since the people reflect the authentic ‘sensus fidei’ which must never be lost sight of. Inculturation needs to be guided and encouraged, but not forced, lest it give rise to negative reactions among Christians. It must be an expression of the community’s life, one which must mature within the community itself and not be exclusively the result of erudite research”. (Redemptoris Missio 54) The thrust to incarnate the Gospel which is the specific task of inculturation requires the co-operation in catechesis of all who live in the same cultural condition—clergy, pastoral workers (catechists) and laity.
Guidance and encouragement without forcing the issue: a delicate balance sometimes missed. Likewise the sense of cooperation.
Catholic Sensibility 