In its simplest definition, lay ministry is the work of those who are not professional clergy. Beyond that, the definition is in the eyes of the beholder. Some see it as a responsibility to serve in the faith community; others see it as the intersection of faith and life; still others see it as the ministry of the people of God through the everyday lives they live.
Sharing responsibility
Congregational members have traditionally served in a variety of ways—as members of governing boards and committees, ushering, preparing worship space, instructing children in religious education classes, and supporting programs for those in need. Increasingly, lay people are sharing responsibility for ministry more customarily associated with clergy: pastoral care and visiting, leading worship, preparing candidates for sacraments such as baptism or communion, and serving as both the administrative and spiritual leaders of education and community-service initiatives. No longer just clergy assistants or implementers of programs defined by professional clergy, lay members are sharing responsibility as partners in ministry within and beyond the congregation.
The extent to which responsibility is shared depends on many factors: the denominational and judicatory framework of the faith community; its historical orientation, evolution, size, even staffing configurations and congregational demographics. As responsibility is shared, distinctions between staff and clergy roles can be blurred. Traditional hierarchies may be redefined, requiring new organizational structures, management styles, and, in some instances, a reconsideration of the organization’s essential purpose or mission. Related conversation includes the role of religious education, individual gift discernment and vocational call, and the role of the faith community to nurture the ministry of individual members.
Lay ministry beyond the religious setting
Based on the premise that the best of religious life is not necessarily contained in congregations, some aspects of lay ministry are practiced outside the faith community. Secular spirituality, alternatives to organized religion, and the role of faith in the workplace are being explored as aspects of lay ministry.
Divine confusion?
The ever-increasing scope of how the term "lay ministry" is interpreted and understood can be daunting. It can also attest to the creative and infinite power of the Spirit working to renew and reinvigorate faith and spirituality in the context of contemporary society.
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