READERS OF THE WORD OF GOD - LECTOR

In 1972, Pope Paul VI restored of the role of lector to the official status as ministry. No longer does a person have to be a student of the priesthood to be formally made a lector,... “Let the reader beware of the office he/she has undertaken and make every effort and employ suitable means to acquire that increasingly warm and living love and knowledge of Sacred Scripture that will make him/her a more perfect disciple of the Lord”

Attitude: You are proclaimers of God’s Holy Word. Many will only hear the word that you proclaim on Sundays. So do it well, Loud and clear. Always practice the readings. We train by what we say and do. Check the schedule to see if you are up.

Dress: The priest wears special clothes because of the importance of Mass. Dress as if you were going to visit the pop’n1y a man. You have God here! Ladies: dress of modest length, or nice pants suit Never tank top or shorts. Men: Dress pants and shirt, (Tie?) Never tank top or shorts.

What to do:

1. Carry the Book of Gospels only, not the book with all the reading in it You carry it in, but not out Return the book to the sacristy after Holy Mass.

2. Place the Gospel Book in the center of the altar, do not stand ft up.

3. Come to the lectern after the opening Prayer. Do not begin the first reading until all are seated. Please read slowly and clearly. After the reading say:

THE WORD OF THE LORD. PAUSE - GIVE THE FOLKS TIME TO THINK ABOUT THE READING.

4. Check to see if the response is sung or said. (Before Mass begins)

5. Read the second reading. Say: THE WORD OF THE LORD. Pause —Give the folks time to think about the reading. When I stand the music ministry begins the Alleluia or verse before the Gospel.

6. After the Creed come to the lectern for the prayers of the faithful. Announce the different response.

7. After Mass genuflect with the priest and servers. Do not carry the book out.

If you can’t be present get another to take you place, not 5 minutes before Mass

Father John