Stable lay ministries approved by Pope Francis
January 11, 2021 at 6:59 p.m.
Referring to the suggestions he has been receiving from regional Synods of Bishops around the world, the Holy Father wrote,
Accepting these recommendations, a doctrinal development has taken place in recent years which has highlighted how certain ministries instituted by the Church are based on the common condition of being baptized and the regal priesthood received in the Sacrament of Baptism; they are essentially distinct from the ordained ministry received in the Sacrament of Orders. A consolidated practice in the Latin Church has also confirmed, in fact, that these lay ministries, since they are based on the Sacrament of Baptism, may be entrusted to all suitable faithful, whether male or female, in accordance with what is already implicitly provided for by Canon 230 § 2.
The Holy See was clear to point out that this change to Canon Law does not affect or alter current regulations regarding admissibility to ordination to the diaconate or priesthood in the Catholic Church, lest there be any confusion. While candidates for Holy Orders are still required to receive the ministries of lector and acolyte as part of their formation, these ministries are now available “in a stable manner” to those approved for their reception by the local bishop.
The various episcopal conferences around the world – in our case, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops – will determine the time frame and manner of implementation.Related Stories
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
E-Editions
Events
Referring to the suggestions he has been receiving from regional Synods of Bishops around the world, the Holy Father wrote,
Accepting these recommendations, a doctrinal development has taken place in recent years which has highlighted how certain ministries instituted by the Church are based on the common condition of being baptized and the regal priesthood received in the Sacrament of Baptism; they are essentially distinct from the ordained ministry received in the Sacrament of Orders. A consolidated practice in the Latin Church has also confirmed, in fact, that these lay ministries, since they are based on the Sacrament of Baptism, may be entrusted to all suitable faithful, whether male or female, in accordance with what is already implicitly provided for by Canon 230 § 2.
The Holy See was clear to point out that this change to Canon Law does not affect or alter current regulations regarding admissibility to ordination to the diaconate or priesthood in the Catholic Church, lest there be any confusion. While candidates for Holy Orders are still required to receive the ministries of lector and acolyte as part of their formation, these ministries are now available “in a stable manner” to those approved for their reception by the local bishop.
The various episcopal conferences around the world – in our case, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops – will determine the time frame and manner of implementation.