ABSTRACT

The article presented here deals with the services and functions of the laity in the liturgy. The study focuses primarily on the historical and theological aspects, which complement each other and make it possible to understand the various modifications of the topic. It is divided into three thematic sections. The first concerns terminology, including an explanation of four important terms: „minor orders“, „office“, „service“, „function“. These terms are essential for a proper understanding of the various differences between the forms of ecclesiastical ministry. The second part shows the historical aspect of the development of the liturgical ministries from ancient times to the Council of Trent. It was at that time that the degrees below the diaconate were clericalized, forming a hierarchy of seven degrees of consecration. The third part of the publication is dedicated to the reform of the liturgical ministry after the Second Vatican Council. Both the causes and the effects of this renewal are shown, with the extremely important theological value of the changes being emphasised. The aim of the article is to show the historical and theological development of the ministry of the laity at the altar, around which the five research questions revolve, the answers to which are given in the conclusion.