Proselytism

A Catholic approach to sharing is not an overly aggressive one, but one that invites in a way that is consistent with the way Jesus did. Our sharing may communicate our Christian identity, church participation, and the difference our faith makes in our lives. We should suggest to those who express further interest that they “come and see” (John 1:38-39).

Key Insights

Invitation, Not Pressure
Proper evangelization means inviting people to encounter Christ and freely choose to follow him. Jesus and the apostles never pressured or manipulated people, and we should not either.

Respect
Evangelization should always be done with a spirit of the utmost respect toward the person being evangelized.

Quotations

[W]e Catholics cannot proselytize—that is, manipulate or pressure anyone to join our Church. Such tactics contradict the Good News we announce and undermine the spirit of invitation that should characterize all true evangelization.

Go And Make Disciples: A National Plan and Strategy for Catholic Evangelization in the United States, 55
USCCB

Evangelization happens when the word of Jesus speaks to people's hearts and minds. Needing no trickery or manipulation, evangelization can happen only when people accept the Gospel freely, as the "good news" it is meant to be, because of the power of the gospel message and the accompanying grace of God.

Go And Make Disciples: A National Plan and Strategy for Catholic Evangelization in the United States, 19
USCCB

Those who have not received the Gospel deserve honor and respect for following God as their consciences direct them. They are related to the People of God in a variety of ways. First are the Jews, the Chosen People, to whom the covenants and promises were made and who, in view of the divine choice, are a people most dear to God.

People of other non-Christian religions also have the right to hear the Gospel, as missionaries have brought it over the centuries. God's plan of salvation also includes the Muslims who profess the faith of Abraham and, together with us, adore the one, merciful God. Then there are those who through no fault of their own do not know the Gospel of Christ or his Church but nevertheless seek God with sincere hearts and seek to do God's will as they know it. Interreligious dialogue presents an opportunity to learn about other religious traditions and to explain our own. Such dialogue, however, must never be a camouflage for proselytizing. Rather, it should be approached with utmost respect and sensitivity. Catholics earnestly share their faith in Jesus Christ, which gives meaning to their lives, praying for that good day, known to God alone, when all peoples will address the Lord in a single voice and serve God with one accord.

Go And Make Disciples: A National Plan and Strategy for Catholic Evangelization in the United States, 43-44
USCCB
Emphasis added