Lectors

Lectors proclaim the Word of God at parish Masses. One must be in good standing with the Church and willing to serve with the gift of proclaiming on a regular basis. Auditions are required and training is provided. Meetings are held as needed.

Prepare for your reading, and pray to let the Holy Spirit speak the Word of God through you. Good preparation requires that you reflect on your reading in the context of its place in scripture (what comes before and after the reading). Read the reading out loud several times before stepping to the Ambo. The Workbook for Lectors is a good source for practice and reflection. 

Check-in at the MSP Kiosk in the Sacristy on the Ministry Table in the narthex. Obtain your cross. Lectors do not process in or out with the clergy and altar servers. 

The First Lector reviews the announcements in the Mass Notebook well before Mass in the Sacristy. If the Mass Notebook is already at the Ambo, the announcements may be reviewed there prior to Mass. If you are not able to locate the Notebook, check with the Sacristan. Once you have reviewed the announcements, take your seat near the Ambo.

The First Lector reads the announcements before Mass at 5 minutes before the scheduled Mass start time. Do not wait for a queue to start, just step to the ambo and begin at 5 minutes before the Mass start time. Speak slowly and pause between announcements. Do not ad-lib. 

The Second Lector should sit near the ambo before Mass.  

Whenever approaching the Ambo, bow from the waist toward the altar before you go up the step. After proclaiming your reading, step down from the Ambo, bow from the waist toward the altar, then be seated.

After the second reading is proclaimed, the Second Lector closes the Lectionary book and places it on the right side of the ambo on the railing which serves as a shelf. 

Dress code:  It is important to dress appropriately. You are in the house of God and proclaiming the Word of God. This is a great honor, and your dress and demeanor should reflect this.

Thank you for your Service!