In definition and practice, denominations understand lay ministry differently. As you review your understanding, we encourage you to explore interpretations from other denominations and faith traditions. When an organization does not have a specific doctrine related to lay ministry, we’ve included related articles or information. If you would like to add a denominational reference not listed, please contact us using the feedback feature.

American Baptist

Episcopal Church USA
     All are Ministers through Baptism
     Ministry in Daily Life (co-sponsored with the ELCA)

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)
     Ministry in Daily Life (co-sponsored with the Episcopal Church)
     Ministry in Daily Life (Division for Ministry)
     New Theological Implications of Lay Ministry
     Priesthood of the Baptized

House Churches
     Ordination
     Definition of Mission

Lutheran—Missouri Synod
     Belief and Practice
     Use of Spiritual Gifts

Judaism
     Lay Rabbinate
     Judaic Studies Program Advanced Learning for Jewish Laity

Orthodox Church in America

Presbyterian Church USA
     The Priesthood of Believers
     About Work
     Baptism
     National Volunteers Office
     Commissioned Lay Pastors

Roman Catholic
     Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity
     The Catechism on the Lay Faithful
     The Lay Vocation and Voice of the Faithful
     Pope John Paul’s Address on Participation of the Laity in Priestly Ministry
     Essay on the Hour of the Laity
     Additional Documents

Southern Baptist

Unitarian Universalist
     Shared Ministry
     Lay Leadership for Various Topics

United Church of Christ
     Affirming Commissioned Ministry

United Methodist
     The Ministry of All Christians
     Ministry of the Laity

Looking for a denominational Web site not listed? Please refer to the "Denominations" page hosted by the Hartford Institute for Religion Research.