As Christ sent His Apostles to teach and to be witnesses to Him in the world, so too, He wants the laity to share in this mission.

The duty of proclaiming the Gospel and of making its power felt in the lives of men belongs not only to bishops, priests, deacons, and religious, but also to the laity in the Church.

The laity are called to be Christ’s witnesses in the world of social, economic, and political activity. They must contribute to the growth of the Kingdom of God by bringing the love and truth of Christ to the world.

In the small circle of their families and neighborhoods, the Catholic laity are called to help guide the world heavenward. They must work in the making of laws and in the shaping of social doctrines and practice, contribute to their country’s development, and minister to the spiritual and material needs of the poor.

The vocation of the laity is to continue Christ’s work of transforming the kingdom of the world into the Kingdom of God, consecrating the world for Christ. By living truly Christ-centered lives of generous service to others, they can help bring about the unity of all men under God.

As our Lord sent His Apostles to teach and be His witnesses in the world, so too He would have the Catholic laity participate in this mission of living and proclaiming the Gospel. This mission can only be accomplished in and through love. As our Lord said, “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).