Spirituality face to face with globalization is the theme of this publication, following the 4th Spirituality Forum in 2004. Spirituality as we understand it, is the dynamic relationship between the Divine Spirit and the Human Spirit that leads to transformation. This relationship is manifested in our day to day life. This relationship is what inspires, sustains, and guides us in our response to our ever-changing environment. Globalization, as a conspicuous feature of (post)modern life, has undoubtedly challenged this Divine-Human relations.
According to the theological critique of Columban Fr. Patrick Mc Mullan of New Zealand, the word globalization first appeared in the English language in 1962; its usage did not gain popularity until the 1980s. Scholars in religion and sociology were among the first to discuss this subject. By the 1990s, globalization discourse had spread into economics and politics, and despite this new word's popularity and frequency of use, there is surprisingly little agreement on the meaning of globalization. Some commentators will claim that globalization is the name given to the 'global village' a new era in human history. This observation is indeed valid and relevant concern for us who are in the search and research of lived spirituality.