Responsibility of Laity
~ Since, in our own times, new problems are arising and very serious errors are circulating which tend to undermine the foundations of religion, the moral order, and human society itself... [each lay member is] to be more diligent in doing what they can to explain, defend, and properly apply Christian principles to the problems of our era in accordance with the mind of the Church.
~ The laity should accustom themselves to working in the parish in union with their priests...
~ They should develop an ever-increasing appreciation of their own diocese, of which the parish is a kind of cell...
~ The laity can engage in their apostolic activity either as individuals or together as members of various groups or associations.
DOGMATIC CONSTITUTION ON THE CHURCH Lumen Gentium (Vatican II) November 21, 1964
~ Canon 212:3 They (LAITY) have the right, indeed at times the duty, in keeping with their knowledge, competence and position, to manifest to the sacred Pastors their views on matters which concern the good of the Church. They have the right also to make their views known to others of Christ's faithful, but in doing so they must always respect the integrity of faith and morals, show due reverence to the Pastors and take into account both the common good and the dignity of individuals.
~ Canon 229 Lay people have the duty and the right to acquire the knowledge of christian teaching which is appropriate to each one's capacity and condition, so that they may be able to live according to this teaching, to proclaim it and if necessary to defend it, and may be capable of playing their part in the exercise of the apostolate.
~ Canon 229 While this first and foremost is manifests itself in sharing the Gospel ('Good News') of Jesus Christ in order to save the countless souls bound for hell, a secondary reason is illustrated in the Book of St. Jude: "I was under a necessity to write unto you: to beseech you to contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints." (Jude 3b)
CODE OF CANON LAW January 25, 1983 John Paul II
~ For they have destroyed the things which thou hast made: but what has the just man done?
Psalm 10:4
~ To him therefore who knoweth to do good, and doth it not, to him it is sin.
James 4:17
~ ...contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints.
Jude 3b