I’ll be honest: more than once, I’ve sat in the pew and thought, “Somebody should really do something about that.” Maybe you’ve had that moment too. Perhaps you noticed the flowers drooping on the altar or the young mom, sitting alone, juggling her two little ones. Or maybe it’s the hymnals strews all over the pews when you arrive at Mass.
For years, I assumed those observations were just my own thoughts. But lately, especially in light of Pope Leo XIV’s words, I’ve begun to wonder:
What if the very needs I notice are God’s invitations? What if He’s showing me where He wants my gifts at work in His Church?
Learning from the Leos
Pope Leo XIV’s words this year were particularly striking to me. He reminded us that the laity are called to be “leaven of unity” in the Church. He didn’t just stop there. He urged lay people to fully embrace their charisms. They should not act as lone rangers but be vital partners working alongside bishops in the mission of evangelization.
What stood out to me was his warning against factionalism. It was a call to resist the temptation of “us versus them” thinking. Instead, we are to serve as bridges of unity and reconciliation in our parishes. To me, thats sounds like the Holy Spirit asking us to notice not only what needs doing, but also how we do it – with humility, generosity, and a deep commitment to the Body of Christ.
More than a century ago, Pope Leo XIII wrote about the laity not as spectators, but as essential co-workers in renewing society. His vision was bold for its time. He believed that ordinary Catholics—people like you and me—carry a share in shaping the life of the Church. They also influence the world.
Fast forward to today, and Pope Leo XIV is picking up that same thread. Now, we hear him calling lay Catholics the “leaven of unity”. He reminds us that the Church’s mission cannot rest on the clergy alone. In his words, we are meant to be “fishers of families.” We draw others into the net of Christ’s love not through programs alone. We achieve this through the gifts we already carry.
Those teachings resonate with me. They confirm what I’ve long felt: when something tugs at our hearts in parish life, it’s rarely an accident.
Noticing with Faith
I remember as a young mom wondering why on earth I was putting myself through the grueling task of taking my toddlers to church. Surely, God understood this was annoying everyone, including me!!! I knew it was important. I was doing my best. But the fact remained – I was drained! Two older moms sitting behind me remembered those days as well. If it wasn’t for them noticing and acting, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Their gentle encouragement meant everything to a struggling young mom. Their light-hearted laughter kept me from calling it quits! Many of us ignore these opportunities, telling ourselves, Surely someone else will reach out. Yet, God may be using you in this simple act of noticing.
That’s what the Vatican meant in Lumen Gentium when it described the laity as “leaven in the world.” Leaven only works if it’s mixed in; if it shows up.
Still, I know, the questions are real:
- What if I overstep?
- Am I really the right person for this?
- What if I mess things up?
This is where Catholic coaching has been a lifeline or me and for many I walk with. Coaching gives us space to pause, to name the gifts God has entrusted to us, to see clearly the needs in front of us, and to discern where the two might meet. It doesn’t replace spiritual direction or pastoral guidance, but it complements them. It helps us recognize that our baptism wasn’t just a past event—it’s a present calling.
The Fruit of Saying Yes
I’ve seen parishes transformed by ordinary people saying yes. A retired teacher who noticed restless children at Mass started a children’s liturgy program. A young dad who loved technology began livestreaming Mass for the homebound. A mother who longed for deeper community started a women’s group.
None of them were waiting for permission slips from heaven. They simply noticed, discerned, and stepped forward. That’s exactly what Pope Leo XIV is asking of us today.
~What’s tugging at your heart these days?
~What need in your parish won’t let you go?
Maybe it’s not just an idea. Maybe it’s God calling your attention.
You don’t have to figure it out alone. Coaching can help you listen for God’s call, sort through all the ideas and fears, and take one, faithful step forward. Because when the laity bring their gifts to life, the Church doesn’t just function, it flourishes.
And perhaps, as Pope Leo XIV reminds us, the Church is waiting on your yes.
For a deeper dive into what the Popes’ and Vatican teaching say, check out my article on Catholic365.
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