Laypeople facts for kids
A layperson is someone who is not an expert in a particular field or subject. For example, a doctor is an expert in medicine, but someone who isn't a doctor is a layperson when it comes to medical knowledge. The word can also refer to a member of a church who is not part of the clergy (like a priest or minister).
Contents
Understanding a Layperson
When we talk about a layperson, it often means someone who doesn't have special training or a professional job in a certain area. They might not know all the technical words or deep details that an expert would.
Laypeople in Different Fields
- In Law: A lay judge is a regular person who helps a professional judge make decisions in court. They are not trained lawyers or judges, but they offer a common sense view. For example, in some countries like Japan, ordinary citizens can serve as lay judges to make trials fairer.
- In Science: If a scientist is explaining a complex idea, they might try to use simple words so a layperson (someone who isn't a scientist) can understand it.
Laypeople in Religion
In many religions, especially Christian churches, the term "layperson" or "laity" refers to all the members of the church who are not clergy. Clergy are people like priests, pastors, or ministers who have special religious training and lead services.
Roles of Laypeople in Churches
Laypeople play many important roles in their churches and communities. They help with different tasks and activities, even though they don't lead religious ceremonies.
- Lay preacher: A layperson who is allowed to give sermons or talks in a church, even though they are not a full-time minister.
- Lay reader: Someone who helps during church services by reading parts of the Bible or leading prayers.
- Lay leader: A layperson who helps organize church activities or manage the church's daily operations.
- Lay brother and Lay sister: In some religious orders, these are people who dedicate their lives to the church but do not become ordained priests or nuns. They often do practical work to support the community.
See also
In Spanish: Laico para niños
