Our Catholic faith invites us to use our gifts to build up God’s Kingdom. Becoming involved in parish ministry is an important way to answer our baptismal call and meet critical needs of the Church. Whilevthe diocese actively recruits men to the priesthood and the permanent diaconate, we must also ensure that parishes can sustain their spiritual lives in the future through the efforts of lay ecclesial ministry.

The Office for Lay Ecclesial Ministry assists in the education and formation of men and women for work in ministry. Many lay members of the Church have gifts which can be used in diverse ministries in the parish.

Those engaged in ecclesial ministry contribute to the community by carrying out the mission of Christ: to announce to the whole world the good news and the love and mercy of God.

Today’s Challenge ~Tomorrow’s Hope will provide $1 million to support the formation of lay ministers by reducing the cost of their required educational training and expanding the reach of the lay ecclesial ministry program.