Catholic Church implements permanent lay ministries in Switzerland and Italy

Following Pope Francis’s motu proprio ‘Spiritus Domini’, the Swiss Bishops' Conference has issued a decree to implement permanent lay ministries, including the roles of lector and acolyte. While these roles were previously performed on a temporary basis, the new regulations allow men and women to be formally and stably instituted into these ministries.

To qualify, candidates must be at least 21 years old, baptized, confirmed, and in adherence to Church doctrine. The decree emphasizes requirements for public reading abilities, a collaborative spirit, and a lifestyle consistent with the Gospel. The Swiss Bishops' Conference clarified that this reform pertains to lay ministries and does not alter the doctrine regarding the Sacrament of Holy Orders.

In Italy, the Diocese of Tivoli and Palestrina is also implementing a pastoral path toward established ministries. This process involves community discernment and specific training for candidates to serve as lectors, acolytes, or catechists, aiming to renew community life through these specific mandates from the Bishop.