Lima, Peru – The Rev. Gustavo Gutiérrez, a prominent Peruvian theologian renowned for founding the liberation theology movement emphasizing social justice, has passed away at the age of 96. His death was confirmed by the Dominican Order in Peru through a social media announcement, stating that he died on Tuesday night at a convent in the capital city, Lima. No further information about the cause of death was provided.

Gutiérrez was a pioneering figure whose work placed the plight of the poor at the forefront of religious discourse, significantly influencing Catholic teachings and practices throughout Latin America. His seminal book, “A Theology of Liberation,” published in 1971, challenged traditional interpretations of faith by advocating for a belief system rooted in social justice aimed at uplifting the impoverished. In this work, he famously described poverty as “a scandalous state, an attack on human dignity, and therefore, contrary to the will of God.”

Following the news of his passing, Cardinal Carlos Castillo, Archbishop of Lima, expressed gratitude for Gutiérrez’s steadfast dedication to theology, noting that he lived a life free from the temptations of wealth or status. “Although he was small in stature, he possessed the strength and courage to convey the Gospel effectively,” said Castillo in a statement honoring the late priest.

Gutiérrez’s ideology resonated deeply with individuals distressed by the rampant inequality and oppressive regimes that plagued various Latin American nations during the 1960s and 1970s. However, this theology faced considerable criticism from the Vatican, which sought to discipline several of its most outspoken advocates over the decades. Despite the Vatican’s disapproval, Gutiérrez himself managed to navigate these challenges without facing any formal sanctions.

In a statement to reporters in 2015, he reflected on how liberation theology had not been outright condemned by the Vatican, while admitting that the Church had engaged in “very critical dialogue” around its core principles and that there had been “difficult moments.” The Vatican’s criticism predominantly centered on liberation theology’s analysis grounded in Marxist principles, particularly regarding class struggle and the pursuit of justice for the marginalized. Some interpretations of liberation theology have even diverged from established Church teachings by perceiving Jesus as primarily a social liberator.

With the election of the first Latin American pope, Pope Francis, there has been a renewed focus within the Vatican on the themes of social justice and care for the impoverished, resulting in a reconsideration of liberation theology’s contributions. Gutiérrez noted this shifting landscape at the time, stating, “I think at this moment, the climate surrounding this theology is different. That is true.”

Upon reaching his 90th birthday in 2018, Pope Francis expressed his appreciation for Gutiérrez’s extensive contributions to the Church and humanity, particularly for his dedication to the marginalized and disenfranchised individuals in society. Born in Lima on June 8, 1928, Gutiérrez obtained his doctorate in theology from the Catholic University of Lyon and served a local parish in Lima for over 20 years, blending pastoral care with his theological pursuits.