Laity and Family Commission

Strengthening Families, Empowering the Faithful

The Laity and Family Commission serves the domestic Church, the family, and promotes the active participation of lay faithful in the life and mission of the Church. Rooted in the teaching of the Second Vatican Council, this ministry affirms that the Church is not just built by priests and religious, but by all the baptized.

Families are the cradle of faith, love, and vocation. The laity are called to be the salt of the earth and light of the world in every sphere: home, workplace, society, and the Church. This commission ensures that both are supported, nourished, and encouraged to flourish.

A Church Built by Families and Lay Leaders

Families form the foundation of the Church and society. When families are strong in faith, prayer, and love, the Church becomes vibrant and life-giving. Similarly, when lay people are informed, formed, and encouraged, they become powerful agents of change in the Church and the world.

The Laity and Family Commission responds to this dual vocation—strengthening families and forming lay leaders.

Key Areas of Ministry

1. Marriage Preparation and Support:
Marriage is a vocation, not just a ceremony. The commission organizes pre-marriage courses for engaged couples, guiding them in faith, communication, responsibility, and sacramental understanding. Post-marriage enrichment programs also help couples grow in love and resolve conflicts.

2. Family Faith Formation:

We offer retreats, family prayers, and workshops to encourage parents and children to live their faith together. Parents are reminded of their role as the first catechists of their children. Activities like family rosary, Scripture reading, and family Masses are promoted.

3. Crisis Intervention and Counselling:

In times of marital crisis, domestic conflict, or emotional distress, the commission provides counselling and pastoral guidance. We believe that with God’s help and compassionate listening, even wounded relationships can find healing and hope.

4. Formation of Lay Leaders:

We encourage lay participation in parish councils, liturgical ministries, social action groups, and faith-sharing groups. Lay leaders are trained in leadership, Catholic social teaching, and Church doctrines to serve with knowledge and humility.

5. Promotion of Christian Family Values:

Through seminars, online resources, and awareness campaigns, the commission promotes values such as fidelity, forgiveness, parenting, chastity, and openness to life. In a culture of rapid change, these values keep families rooted and united.

Called to Love and Lead

Every layperson is called to live out their baptismal mission—be it as a teacher, parent, farmer, nurse, politician, or entrepreneur. The Church needs lay faithful who live their faith boldly and bring Christ to the world through their profession and daily life.

Likewise, every family is a sanctuary of life, a school of love, and a seedbed of vocations. The commission walks with families through every season of life—celebration, struggle, and renewal.

As Pope Francis reminds us:

“The strength of the family lies in its capacity to love and to teach how to love.”