With the decline in the number of ordained ministers, laypeople are answering their baptismal call to continue to serve the mission entrusted to the Church.  The goals of this book are to distinguish between those forms of ministry exclusive to ordained ministers and those open to all persons and to encourage those who have heard the Lord’s call to respond to the rich opportunities available to further Jesus’ prayer that the “kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven."

Contents include the Gospel call to ministry, Jesus’ ministry, the early Church, ordained ministry, religious orders, lay ministry, the priest shortage, the role of youth, the spiritual and corporal works, and opportunities for ministry.  Reflective questions for the reader include the following: When have you felt the Holy Spirit guiding your words or actions? Describe a time you embraced safety, security, and comfort, sacrificing an opportunity to serve others’ needs.