Liturgical Ministries » Lectors

Lectors

SMALEC
Servers, lectors, commentators, and members of the choir exercise a genuine liturgical function. They ought, therefore, to discharge their office with the sincere piety and decorum demanded by so exalted a ministry and rightly expected of them by God's people. Consequently, they must all be deeply imbued with the spirit of the liturgy, each in his own measure, and they must be trained to perform their functions in a correct and orderly manner. From Vatican II, Sacrosanctum Concilium #29
 
When the Scriptures are read in the Church, God himself is speaking to his people, and Christ, present in his own word, is proclaiming the gospel. The readings of God's word must therefore be listened to by all with reverence; they make up a principal element of the liturgy. In the biblical readings, God's word addresses all people of every era and is understandable to them, and a fuller understanding and efficacy are fostered by a living commentary on it, that is to say, by the homily, understood as an integral part of the liturgical action (GIRM 29)
 
Being a Lector
 
The lector's main function is that of proclaiming the word of God from Sacred Scripture in the liturgical assembly (a very visible role of service). They carry the lectionary (in the procession) to and from the altar. Lectors also recite the prayers of the faithful and make announcements (about coming events) at the end of Mass.
 
Qualifications
 
  • Desire to serve the Lord
  • A practicing member of the St. Michael the Archangel Parish
  • High school age and confirmed
  • Able to speak in a clear voice before the assembly
  • Understand the role of the lector, so that the Scripture reading becomes the living Word of God
 
Responsibilities
 
  • Attend Lector training sessions
  • Fulfill your commitment to your assigned day
  • Be punctual
  • Prepare and practice the reading(s) ahead of time
  • Do all with reverence
  • Dress appropriately
 
Assignments
 
  • There are two lectors assigned to each Mass.
  • Lectors may request serving at a particular Mass time.
  • They serve about once every four to six weeks. Scheduling accommodates those with sons who are altar servers so that the family can attend the same Mass.
 
How to Become a Lector
 
To become a Lector, please contact Patrick Cummings
 
Lector Schedule
 
Please contact Parish secretary for questions regarding the schedule.