Ministry is the way in which the Church continues what Christ began and still intends, namely, the salvation of humanity and the transformation of the world. All baptized and confirmed Christians receive a call and gifts enabling them to participate in this mission. When lay people carry out Christ’s work as priest, prophet, and king in their own proper way through public activity authorized by the Church, we call this lay ministry.
Since the time of Vatican II, the Christian lay faithful have contributed greatly to the spiritual heritage of the Church, enlarging our understanding of what it means to be called to holiness, that is, to be called to "ever more intimate union with Christ" (Catechism of the Catholic church, no.2014). Their union with Christ is evident in a deepened awareness of the spiritual dimensions of life.
