Reflections on Renewal

The United States bishops' document Co-Workers in the
Vineyard of the Lord is a vital resource for the ongoing
development of lay ecclesial ministry. Building upon Co-Workers
and affirming the recent renewal of the laity and the flowering of lay
ministries, Reflections on Renewal contributes to efforts to reshape
ministerial language and practices in the church today. It explores
the theological and pastoral foundations of ministry, including how
all ministry is rooted in the sacraments of initiation, and suggests
ways of refining or redefining our understandings of lay ecclesial
and ordained ministries so that we as church can respond more
fully to the call of God in our lives and world. At the same time, the
book recognizes that lay ministry developed organically as the work
of the Spirit and is, foremost, a cause for rejoicing.
This collection of essays is grounded in Fordham University's
commitment to the church and its mission in the world. It honors
the thousands of laypeople who have answered a call to serve the
church in ministry.