Within the Ecclesiastical Body, the institution of Ecclesiastical Councillors or Stewards, as they were formerly known, holds a distinct position. They are the most immediate collaborators of the Priest and embody the representation of the laity in Ecclesiastical Administration.

Essentially, they are selected not to gain anything humanly, since their position is honorary and unremunerated, but to bear a specific Cross, that of the responsibility of managing and administering the Ecclesiastical Cell known as the Parish.

In modern daily life, with its multifaceted developments and the complexity of relationships, the ministry of the Ecclesiastical Councillor or Steward differs from what it used to be. The increasing responsibility must be consciously recognized, not only towards the citizenry. This responsibility does not end at a spiritual level, but extends to legal, moral, and social dimensions.

Essentially, nowadays, the Ecclesiastical Steward is called to be constantly ready to give "an account to anyone who asks".