Q’s from the Pews, Vol (6/9) What is the Apostolate of the Laity?

Apostolicam Actuositatem defines the “apostolic activity of the people of God.” This decree of Vatican II, known as the Apostolate of the Laity, calls us to spread the light of the Gospel on every aspect of life. AA notes that “the Church was founded for the purpose of spreading the kingdom of Christ throughout the world.” The laity, through their engagement in the church and in the secular world, have a special role in this mission. The apostolate of the laity is different than the Apostolic role of the bishops and priests. “Thus, they should be concerned about the needs of the people of God dispersed throughout the world. They should specially make missionary activity their own.”

The decree quotes Colossians 3:17: “Whatever you do in word or work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” AA lists “important fields of action, namely, church communities, the family, youth, the social milieu, and national and international levels.” The Apostolate of the Laity calls us to spread the light of the Gospel on every aspect of society, like leaven. “Therefore, in collaborating as citizens of the world…the laity must seek in the light of faith loftier motives of action in their families, professional, cultural, and social life and make them known to others when the occasion arises.” Everything we do should reflect the teachings of our Faith. Every Mass at dismissal, when we are called to “go in peace to love and serve the Lord,” we are being sent to exercise this apostolate.