From September 23rd to 30th, the Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines is celebrating National Laity Week with the theme "Enabled Laity: The Key to a Successful Synodal Journey." This week is dedicated to reflecting on the vital role of the laity within the life and mission of the Church. We find it inspiring—while celebrating the NLW—to revisit the Second Vatican Council's "Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity " (Apostolicam Actuositatem) and highlight some points of application. As a Religious member of the Xaverian Charismatic Family, I am pleased to share how this document offers invaluable guidance and application for us, especially in spreading the missionary experience inspired by our Founder, Saint Guido Maria Conforti.
- The Empowerment of Laypeople
At the core of Apostolicam Actuositatem is the recognition that the lay faithful are not merely passive members of the Church but are called to be active participants in the mission of the Church. They are members of the Church, bearing witness to Christ in the world. Their empowerment is not a recent development but a reiteration of an ancient tradition of collaboration between the clergy and laity.
- Collaboration and Unity with the Hierarchy
The Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity underscores the essential element of unity with the Church hierarchy. Laypeople are called to work in collaboration with the clergy and be closely united with those whom the Holy Spirit has assigned with the service of authority in the Church.
- Importance of Cooperation and Fraternal Charity
Cooperation among various apostolic projects is highly encouraged in the document. In a world where destructive conflicts can be divisive, the spirit of unity and fraternal charity is promoted to achieve common goals and avoid conflicts. The laity and clergy are called to work hand in hand to maintain harmony.
- Specific Roles and Responsibilities
Apostolicam Actuositatem outlines the hierarchy's role in promoting the apostolate of the laity, providing them with spiritual principles, and supporting their conduct for the common good. It recognizes that the laity can have different relationships with the hierarchy based on the forms and objects of their apostolate.
- Education and Formation for the Apostolate
One of the most critical aspects emphasized in Apostolicam Actuositatem is the need for comprehensive formation for laypeople. This formation is not just about theology but also encompasses spiritual, doctrinal, and practical aspects. It must be ongoing, recognizing the need for deeper knowledge and planned activities.
- Youth and Family Formation
The Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity calls for the formation of children and adolescents for the apostolate. Families are seen as the primary training ground for the apostolate. Parents are entrusted with the task of teaching their children to recognize God's love for all and to have compassion for their neighbors.
- The Necessity of Ongoing Education and Training
Apostolicam Actuositatem highlights the role of Catholic educational institutions, priests, and lay groups in providing formation for the apostolate. Formation for the apostolate should be so organized that it addresses all aspects of life, especially one's professional and social life.
- Centers and Higher Institutes
The establishment of centers and higher institutes dedicated to the formation of the laity is encouraged, acknowledging their success in certain areas. These institutions offer resources for lay people to deepen their knowledge and skills for the apostolate.
Conclusion
National Laity Week is an opportunity to revisit the timeless wisdom of the Second Vatican Council's "Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity." This document encourages and empowers lay people to be key contributors to the Church's mission. Their active participation, unity with the hierarchy, and spirit of collaboration are pivotal for the Church's journey in the world today. The Church celebrates the laity and recognizes their essential role in the spreading of the Kingdom of God.
Within this context, as a member of the Xaverian Charismatic Family, we express profound gratitude to the Lord for the signs of the times, witnessing a growing desire among lay people to share the Charism and proclaim Christ and his Kingdom, particularly to Non-Christians. The participation of the laity in the Church's life, as articulated during the 18th Xaverian General Chapter, stands as a divine gift to the Church. “The Chapter supports the journey matured by the Xaverian Laity in the Circumscriptions where we are present, as a new expression of our charism and spirituality. Laity is an evangelizing force in Christian and non-Christian contexts.”2 May the "Enabled Laity" continue to be the cornerstone of a synodal journey, living their vocation as witnesses to Christ in the world today.
Happy Celebration of the NLW in the Philippines!