LECTOR’S PRAYER

 MAY THE LORD BE

 IN MY HEART AND

ON MY LIPS THAT

 I

 MAY WORTHILY

 PROCLAIM THE

GOOD NEWS OF

 SALVATION.

ORDER OF LECTOR:

  From the beginning, Christian liturgies included lectors who read the scripture texts.  Because it was viewed as an important task, lectors were expected to be model Christians who were educated in their ministry.  But ministers of higher rank eventually absorbed all the duties of lectors and finally only those preparing for priesthood received the minor order of lector.  Vatican II, however, reintroduced the ancient ministry of lector.

 The proclamation of the Word is a ministry that belongs to the Lector.  The Lector is to  proclaim God’s Word in the midst of God’s people when they assemble for worship (Eucharistic, sacramental, liturgy of the hours, other rites).  By their faith, their manner of reading, and their lives, lectors are obliged to proclaim the Word in such a way that God’s message can be heard.

THE LECTOR SHALL:

Be baptized, confirmed, and a practicing Catholic at least sixteen years of age.  If married, they are in a validly contracted sacramental marriage in the Church.  The marriage must have been celebrated in the presence of a priest or deacon and two witnesses unless a dispensation has been obtained.

To be active in the ministry, lectors participate in training in the meaning of the liturgy, understanding of scripture, and public speaking.  In addition, lectors make a commitment to ongoing training and nurturing in the ministry through practice, self-critique, scripture study, prayer and an occasional retreat.  Resources and educational opportunities are offered by the parish and the archdioceses.

TRAINING IN THE MINISTRY:

The parish offers training sessions for new prospective lectors at least twice a year.  Participation in the initial training experience is not necessarily an automatic admission into the ministry.  Not every person has the ability to proclaim the Word of God.  The lector coordinator and parish Liturgist works with the lectors to affirm and enhance their abilities in this ministry.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS:

*Commissioning of lectors on the Feast of Corpus Christi

*Winter Training Session

*Spring Training Session