General:
* Service: This is a broad term that can encompass many types of work, including religious work.
* Work: Simple and direct, suitable for secular contexts.
* Mission: Highlights the purpose and goal of the work.
* Calling: Emphasizes the sense of divine purpose.
Religious:
* Pastoral work: Focuses on the work of a pastor or priest.
* Preaching: Focuses on the act of delivering sermons.
* Evangelism: Emphasizes the spreading of the gospel.
* Missionary work: Highlights the focus on spreading religion to new areas.
Other:
* Outreach: Focuses on reaching out to people in need.
* Welfare: Focuses on improving people's lives.
* Social work: Emphasizes the work of helping others in need.
To find the best word, consider:
* The type of ministry: Is it religious, social, or something else?
* The specific function of the ministry: What is the goal of the work?
* The audience: Who is the intended reader or listener?
For example, if you're talking about a religious leader's work, "pastoral work" might be a good substitute. If you're discussing a secular organization that helps the homeless, "outreach" might be a better choice.