Apostolicam Actuositatem

Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity

Second Vatican Council; solemnly promulgated by St. Paul VI1965-11-18Current

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Overview

Explains the vocation, formation, spirituality, fields, and forms of the lay apostolate in the Church and in the world.

Why This Document Matters

It directly connects baptism and confirmation with the laity's responsibility for evangelization and the renewal of temporal affairs.

Historical Context

Promulgated during Vatican II's final session alongside the council's wider emphasis on the vocation and mission of all the baptized.

Authority and Status

Genre: Ecumenical Council Decree
Authority class: Ecumenical council decree
Juridical force: Doctrinal and pastoral
Current status: Current
Promulgated: 1965-11-18

A decree of an ecumenical council, solemnly promulgated by the pope, teaching principles and giving pastoral direction for the lay apostolate.

Key Points

LaityApostolateEvangelizationFamily

Major Themes

LaityApostolateEvangelizationFamilyTemporal Order

Related CatholicG33k Resources

Official Text

Apostolicam Actuositatem

The official document text is hosted by the Holy See. CatholicG33k provides contextual and educational material but does not reproduce the complete Vatican text here.

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