Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord is the result of many years of work by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Bishop Edward U. Kmiec served as a member of the Bishops Committee on the Laity in the early 1990s. At that time the committee worked on the pastoral statement Called and Gifted for the Third Millennium. It was approved on the thirtieth anniversary of the Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity. Bishop Kmiec became a member of an ad-hoc committee on lay ecclesial ministry. One of the fruits of that committee’s labor was Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord. Heartfelt enthusiasm describes Bishop Kmiec’s feelings about the future of lay ecclesial ministry in the United States.

Early in their study, the bishops began their work by focusing on our baptismal call. They realized that there is a distinct kind of ministry within that call—a professional ministry that requires certain education, formation and commissioning by a bishop. This new lay ecclesial ministry is a growing phenomenon in the church, and not necessarily due to the shortage of priests and religious.

Bishop Kmiec Speaks

Bishop Kmiec believes Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord sends a wonderful message to lay ecclesial ministers. It affirms lay ecclesial ministry as an authentic vocation. These ministers receive a unique call from God that requires discernment. The church can benefit from their wisdom, learning and energy.

Bishop Kmiec points out that the document clarifies the distinction between ordained and lay ecclesial ministers, but should not be polarizing. There is room in the church for all of us to work together in building God’s Kingdom. It will take time for everyone to fully embrace this new reality. Bishop Kmiec believes we need catechesis for this document that will help with this transition. As lay ecclesial ministry continues to develop, its acceptance will increase. The document is a good start because it helps people to see that lay ecclesial ministry is good for the church.

I asked Bishop Kmiec about the following excerpt from the Introduction to the document: “It (Co-Workers) suggests concepts, goals, strategies, resources, and ideas to consider. It invites local adaptation, application, and implementation to achieve consistency where possible and to encourage diversity where appropriate.”

He noted that lay ecclesial ministry formation must be approached with an attitude of flexibility. There are many different circumstances from diocese to diocese. Room for adaptation is a pastoral necessity both on a diocesan and local level. This will be a challenge and it calls for pragmatic solution.

Future of the Church

Where will the church be ten to fifteen years from now because of Co-Workers? Bishop Kmiec foresees more administrative roles being given to laity, especially in parish life. He hopes that our church continues to learn how to best utilize the gifts and talents that people bring. All of this is the work of the Holy Spirit. Circumstances have increased the church’s awareness and prompted us to offer a channel for laity to minister in the church.

In closing Bishop Kmiec stated, “We already have many lay ecclesial ministers working on various levels in the church. Overall I am very impressed by their dedication, commitment, and energy. They have an admirable zeal and are a great strength for the church. I appreciate all of them and may God bless them all!”