Lay Help the Church's Present Need A Paper read at St. Mary's Schools, West Brompton

In this thoughtful address, a nineteenth‑century clergyman explores why lay involvement has always been essential to the church’s vitality. Drawing on early‑Christian examples and the work of later reformers, he shows how ordinary believers, motivated by love for Christ, have historically turned faith into concrete service for the poor and the mission‑field.

The speaker urges modern congregations to rediscover that same spirit of active participation, arguing that true unity arises not merely from shared doctrine but from shared deeds. He offers practical reflections on how today’s church members might answer the simple yet profound question, “What will you give to God?”—inviting listeners to consider their own role in the ongoing story of lay‑help.