Liturgical Ministry

"Beyond the intimate community of family life, the parish is for most Catholics their foremost experience of the Christian community, enabling them to express their faith, grow in unity with God and others, and continue the saving mission of Christ. We have seen a welcome renewal in all aspects of parish life and ministry, due in large measure to an informed and committed laity often encouraged by their pastors and priests imbued with the spirit of Vatican II. In addition, the increase of people from different racial and ethnic cultures has been challenging parishes, dioceses, and communities not only to spread a larger, more welcoming table but also to learn how diversity builds up the Body of Christ. African American congregations have discovered much of their worship heritage and have enriched Catholic liturgical life. 'All of us have been given to drink of the one Spirit. Now the body is not one member, it is many'' (1 Cor 12: 13-14)."

"We consider lay participation in church life at all levels a gift of the Holy Spirit, given for the common good. Laity can and should exercise responsible participation both individually and in groups, not only at the invitation of church leadership but by their own initiative." 

Called and Gifted for the Third Millenium:  Reflections of the U.S. Catholic Bishops on the Thirtieth Anniversary of the Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity and on the Fifteenth Anniversary of Called and Gifted (c1995, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops)