CO-RESPONSIBILITY OF THE LAY FAITHFUL IN THE CHURCH AND THE WORLD (THE)

This Pastoral Letter by the CCCB Commission for Doctrine explores the great responsibility of the laity in God’s plan for the world, in which they are not simply collaborators of the clergy but are truly “co-responsible” for the Church’s being and acting. It notes the unique mission of the laity as being “in the world” and transforming it from within, through their life and witness. It also discusses the danger of clericalism, and considers several areas of society today that stand in need of the transforming power of the Gospel brought by the Church’s lay faithful in communion with members of the clergy and consecrated life.