Lectors (Readers)

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About

When the Sacred Scriptures are read in the Church, God himself speaks to His people, and Christ, present in His word, proclaims the Gospel. Therefore, the readings from the Word of God are to be listened to reverently by everyone, for they are an element of the greatest importance in the Liturgy. (General Instruction of the Roman Missal [GIRM], no. 29)

What is a Lector? 

This ministry may also be called Reader or Minister of the Word.

A lector is the person who proclaims the first and second reading at Mass. This person also may lead the Responsorial Psalm (in the absence of a cantor) and the Prayers of the Faithful at Mass.

The lector must believe that Sacred Scripture is the Word of God and have deep respect for God’s presence in that Word.

Becoming an effective Lector requires more than just a clear voice. Lectors should commit to three essential practices:

  • Prayer: Seeking the Holy Spirit to gain a spiritual understanding of the Word.
  • Preparation: Studying the context and meaning of the readings ahead of time. Lectors are provided with a workbook which gives background and relationships of the readings, as well as pronunciations and helpful information for proclaiming the readings.
  • Practice: Refining the delivery, tone, and pacing to ensure the Word will be heard clearly and reverently.

In addition to the first and second readings, Lectors will also pray the General Intercessions (Prayers of the Faithful) at Mass.

All Mass ministry volunteers use the Ministry Scheduler which allows you to identify the Mass(es) at which you would like to serve, dates/times when you are not available to serve at Mass, as well as submit requests for a substitute when you are unable to serve for a Mass for which you are scheduled.

How to Join This Ministry

If you have a love for the Holy Scriptures and feel called to share them with your parish family, we welcome your participation.  Training will be provided to help you feel confident at the ambo.

If you feel the Lord calling you to assist the parish in this way, we invite you to take the next step and call the Parish Office during office hours or talk with our Pastor after Mass.

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