Collaborative in Ministry

From the beginning, Jesus entrusted his mission to more than the Twelve. St Luke tells how seventy‑two disciples were sent out in pairs to the towns and places Jesus himself would visit. They returned with joy, and Jesus gently reminded them that their deepest gladness lay not in success, but in belonging to God: “Don’t be glad because the evil spirits obey you; rather be glad because your names are written in heaven.”

It is likely many of the seventy-two encouraged the general enthusiasm of the joyful crowds with cries of “Hosanna” as Jesus entered Jerusalem just a few days before Good Friday. In the weeks that followed some of the seventy-two might have gone to Galilee with the apostles to meet Jesus there. More than five hundred saw him at once.

The apostles, strengthened by the Spirit at Pentecost, quickly found themselves surrounded by many others whose gifts were needed for the Church’s growth. With thousands seeking baptism, the Twelve could not have managed alone. The seventy‑two, and many more besides, offered their gifts freely. From the beginning, the Church’s mission depended on collaboration.

So, it is today. Ministry arises from Baptism, and the gifts of the Spirit are entrusted to all the faithful. Ordained clergy, religious, lay pastoral leaders, parish staff, volunteers, and those serving in Catholic schools each contribute to the mission of the Church. Their gifts differ, yet all serve the same Lord.

Lay pastoral leaders, mandated and appointed by bishops, serve with formation, scholarship, and professional preparation. They are not “helpers” in the casual sense, but leaders — collaborating directly with clergy in pastoral care, sacramental preparation, catechesis, and parish administration.

In recent years, lay leadership has developed in other ways. Some roles once appointed at diocesan level are now made at the parish level but guided by diocesan protocols. Youth ministry leaders, parish financial managers, parish secretaries, tagged positions in Catholic schools are examples of lay leadership shaped locally while remaining part of the wider mission of the Church. These developments simply reflect the Church’s ongoing discernment of how best to support its communities.

Lay associations such as the St Vincent de Paul Society and the Catholic Women’s League offer service rooted in long tradition. Many parishioners volunteer generously on pastoral councils, administration committees, and service rosters.

Religious orders, both women and men, continue to enrich parish life with their charisms.

Shared leadership means no two parishes will be alike. Each community is shaped by the gifts of its people, the charisms present, and the needs of its mission. When these gifts are offered together, the Church’s work becomes joyful, fruitful, and deeply united.