An open invitation

Church ministry is not just for priests and nuns

Some people think the church is exclusively the domain of priests, nuns, bishops, and the pope. Maybe you believe that as well. Although deep inside you may feel an attraction to working in the church, you probably think you don’t have a vocation for religious life or the priesthood. What if you were told that through your Baptism you were already a king, priest, or prophet?

All Christians, through their Baptism, are called to fulfill the mission of the church, the mission of Christ to announce the Good News. From wherever they are—in religious life or the priesthood, in their families and professions, or as lay ministers—they can respond faithfully to their vocation.

How do I know this is my calling? Many people know because they receive a direct invitation from a parish leader. Prayer is always necessary, as is dialogue and evaluation.

As with every vocation, it is important that someone accompanies you throughout the process and assists in discerning your qualities, talents, and possibilities.

One thing is certain, God will not ask you to give what you are not capable of.

What is required to make a commitment to lay ministry? The recent document of the U.S. bishops, Co-workers in the Vineyard, spells it out:

• Logically, you must be in communion with the church in which you will be serving with fidelity and joy.

• A desire to serve the mission that emerges from the love of God and the people.

• Commitment to a life of prayer and practice of the sacraments.

• The zeal to live a Christian life.

• Emotional maturity.

• A commitment to improve communication skills and resolve conflicts.

As with everything in life, responding to such a vocation requires you to relinquish certain things and options. It is certainly not something one does for money, but in a spirit of service. Are you up to it?