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The Bishops and Church leaders were asking for professionals - men and women with technical, medical, educational and administrative expertise. In fact almost every profession and skill would be invaluable to these new and developing churches. Msgr. Brouwers returned to Los Angeles in February, 1955 and a month later the Archdiocese of Los Angeles founded the Lay Mission-Helpers Association. Following a nine month preparation course, the first six Lay Mission-Helpers were commissioned by Cardinal McIntyre on July 4, 1956. They were sent to the Sudan, Tanganyika and Uganda. Utilizing The Skills Of Professionals An undertaking of the size of Lay Mission-Helpers required financial support. This need was met by the creation of two organizations which were then known as Mission Men and Mission Ladies. Today known as The Mission Guild, members provided the support necessary to continue the good work begun by Msg. Brouwers and the original six missionaries - who have been followed by 700 men, women and families serving in 35 countries around the world. Members pledge a certain amount of money each month and are given a prayer card with a photo of a current Lay Mission-Helper. If you would like to support Lay Mission-Helpers Association by joining the Mission Guild click here. Our Christian Calling An important point to note is the date Lay Mission-Helpers Association was founded. 1955 was prior to the opening of the Second Vatican Council, whose documents reaffirmed the fact that all Christians have a call and a place in the on-going mission of the Church. Recognizing the role of the laity in mission and the Church as a whole may be something we take for granted today, but it was a revolutionary view for the time. Lay Mission-Helpers have served in 35 countries in Africa, Asia, Micronesia, the Middle East, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Canada, and the United States. Christine Fuller is the Executive Director of Lay Mission-Helpers Association. Former directors include Msgr. Harold Laubacher, Msgr. Lawrence O'Leary, Msgr. Joseph Alzugaray, Msgr. Michael Meyers, Fr. David John Ayotte and Janice England (current Program Director). "For we are God's helpers." Click here to find out how you can become a Lay Mission-Helper.
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