The lay ecclesial minister is a fully initiated member in good standing of the Catholic community who, by baptismal commitment, prayer, discernment, and support of the community, responds to the call of the bishops to share in the mission of the Church.
“The renewal of the Church in America will not be possible without the active presence of the laity. Therefore, they are largely responsible for the future of the Church.” -- Pope John Paul II Ecclesia in America
The Diocese of Cleveland has over 300 Certified Lay Ecclesial Ministers who serve across parishes, and diocesan offices in the various roles and ministries: pastoral associate, catechetical leader, campus minister, youth minister, bereavement, prison ministry, retreat houses and through Institutions or programs of social outreach and advocacy.
Michelle Nowak, Director
440 943-7669
The formation process provided by the diocese for candidates seeking Lay Ecclesial Ministry certification is comprehensive and intended to provide participants and the diocese with men and women who will exercise ministerial leadership in a parish or other ministerial settings with the competence needed to assume these responsibilities.
“Lay ecclesial ministers serve publicly in the local church, so they need to accept this role with fidelity and loyalty and be able to fill it with integrity, fully versed in . . . Church teaching, supportive of it, able to defend it, and to present it with clarity.”
A “certified Lay Ecclesial Minister” is someone who has been formally accepted into the diocesan certification process, completed successfully all aspects of formation, and who has been “authorized” to serve in the diocese, as a Lay Ecclesial Minister, by the Bishop of Cleveland
Check out our Events page to find the latest listings for informational nights, ongoing formation opportunities and more.
Visit our Resource page for helpful downloads including Church documents, information for discernment, and listings for local academic institutions.
Contact the Lay Ecclesial Ministry Office via our Contact Form. We'd love to hear from you.
Child & Youth Protection
Our promise to protect, our pledge to heal.
To report an abuse, please contact local law enforcement and:
Kathleen McComb, Victim Assistance Coordinator
Response Services – 216-334-2999
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