Laity and Ministry in a Synodal Church

The Second Plenary Assembly of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life opened today on the theme “Laity and Ministry in a Synodal Church”. Some 35 members and consultors from around the world are taking part in the work. They will reflect together - behind closed doors and in a process of mutual listening and sharing of experiences - on Article 133 of the Apostolic Constitution Praedicate Evangelium which states: “It is the competence of the Dicastery, with the agreement of other Dicasteries concerned, to evaluate and approve the proposals of Episcopal Conferences relating to the institution of new ministries and ecclesiastical offices to be entrusted to the laity, according to the needs of the particular Churches.”

The Assembly will conclude on Saturday, April 22, with an audience for the participants  with the Holy Father.