The church and the laity were increasingly active in charity work.

教会与俗众越来越积极于慈善工作。

《柯林斯英汉双解大词典》

The laity, however, everywhere preferred their priests celibate.

然而，俗众却到处渴望他们的祭司过独身生活。

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Thus, his preaching was directed at not only the laity, but the clergy as well.

因此，他的讲道面向的不只是世俗之人，也面向神职人员。

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Resolving these transparency issues is based in part on empowering the laity for a greater role.

CNN: Francis, open up the church

One issue cannot be dodged: the role of the laity, especially women.

WSJ: Daniel Johnson: A New Pope on a Pilgrim's Path

Dr Philip Giddings, speaking on behalf of the laity, said Dr Williams had worked with "passion and perseverance" for unity within the Church.

BBC: Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams