Lay ecclesial ministers are women and men whose ecclesial service is characterized by: Authorization of the hierarchy to serve publicly in the local church Leadership in a particular area of ministry Close mutual collaboration with the pastoral ministry of bishops, priests, and deacons Preparation and formation appropriate to the level of responsibilities that are assigned to them

Stewardship is not simply making donations or taking care of the building and grounds. It is a spirituality—hence a way of life—made of four parts:

**Receiving the gifts of God with gratitude
**Cultivating them responsibly
**Sharing them lovingly in justice with others **Standing before the Lord in a spirit of accountability

 It is up to you to determine how you will live out this stewardship way of life. You will not be alone, however. Millions of fellow Catholics are traveling together with you.