seglares

Seglares is a term used in Iberian languages to refer to laypersons in the Christian church, i.e., members who are not ordained clergy or members of religious orders. The word derives from Latin saecularis, meaning belonging to the secular, in contrast to clerical or monastic life. In Catholic usage, seglares participate in the life and mission of the Church while remaining in secular status.

Laity's role: They share in the baptismal vocation to holiness and to the apostolate, serving in family life, work, and society. They may contribute liturgically and pastorally through lay ministries such as catechesis, education, service to the poor, and leadership within parish or diocesan structures. The organization of lay groups ranges from informal associations to formal lay ecclesial movements and secular institutes, which vow or commit to evangelical ideals while remaining lay.

History and context: The term is common in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking Catholic contexts. Since Vatican II, documents such as Lumen Gentium and Apostolicam Actuositatem have emphasized the vocation and mission of the laity in collaboration with bishops and clergy, broadening opportunities for seglares to participate in church governance and mission in the world.

In modern usage, seglares are integral to parish life, social outreach, and the church’s engagement with contemporary issues. They may operate within parish councils, education programs, charitable groups, or national lay associations, reflecting the enduring concept of the laity as co-responsible for the church’s mission.