The Theology of Lay Ministry: `Developments' Since Vatican II

Ministry, particularly lay ministry, is developing and expanding in the Roman Catholic Church. Much of the theological understanding of this new practice is based on the Second Vatican Council's re-appreciation of the church as the body of Christ and of the mission of the church as the responsibility of all. Despite this, one finds in post-conciliar documents and instructions a continued re-assertion of the association between ministry and ordained priesthood, and of the role of the laity as being in the 'world' rather than the 'church.' This article critiques some church teaching on lay ministry since the Council and presents some challenges for the future.