Functions/Overview of the Office

• Serves as the representative of and advocate for lay ecclesial ministers and other lay ministers in the Archdiocese
• Provides resources and information on lay ecclesial ministry to all in need of such resources
• Serves as the Archdiocesan liaison with pastoral associates
• Provides for the certification and recertification of pastoral associates,
• Provides salary and benefits guidelines for pastoral associates, and tools for their performance review
• Offers ministerial career guidance and placement services for pastoral associates
• Offers an annual new minister orientation for new lay ministers in the Archdiocese
• Acts as liaison to the Cardinal for P.A.A.C. (Pastoral Associates: Archdiocese of Chicago)
• Publishes a lay ministry newsletter