The Vatican II concept of the mission of the laity refers to what?

• A. The active role of lay people in the Church's mission
• B. The exclusive role of clergy in mission
• C. The suppression of lay involvement
• D. The lay faithful serving only as pews

Answer: (A)

The mission of the laity in Vatican II means the lay faithful actively participate in the Church’s mission, not as bystanders but as engaged witnesses and agents of evangelization in everyday life. This reflects the teaching that all the faithful share in the baptismal priesthood and are called to collaborate in sanctifying the world, through family life, work, culture, politics, and charitable action. Key documents like Lumen Gentium emphasize that every member has a role in building up the Body of Christ, while Apostolicam Actuositatem highlights the lay apostolate—sharing the Gospel and promoting holiness in daily circumstances and various lay associations.

This view rejects the idea that only clergy have a mission, or that lay involvement should be limited or passive, such as being mere pew-bound spectators.