What is a lector?
The lector, or minister of the Word, proclaims the scripture readings to the gathered church community. A clear, strong voice and the ability to communicate with sincerity and feeling are essential.
Lectors are part of the team who minister at the Liturgy. The Lector PROCLAIMS that God is present in the Word of the readings from the Old and New Testament. The gathered community depends on the lector to make the Word come alive for them. Making God present is an awesome responsibility and requires commitment and time.
A Prayer for Lectors "Proclaimers of the Word"
Lord, invest me with Your Power as I prepare to proclaim the Marvel of Your Message. I have prepared my readings, I have tried to understand what I am about to read. Help me, to read not just with my lips but with my whole heart and soul. I believe in your Word, Lord, and I ask your Spirit guide me to lovingly proclaim your goodness and promises. Amen.
Lectors at St Paul’s
Anyone who can read well and is willing to devote time to prepare and celebrate the liturgy is invited to serve as a lector. Lectors should be fully initiated and at least 16 years of age (for a special occasion, a lector make be younger than 16). A short training session is required. Lectors usually scheduled to serve every 4-6 weeks.
All liturgical ministers are expected to dress appropriately. Jeans, t-shirts, sportswear (especially shorts) and short skirts are not appropriate for this, or any ministry. It is our role to enhance the worship of the assembly, to be at tentative at the Liturgy. Anything that draws the focus to ourselves is inappropriate.
To prepare for Mass, a lector should read over the readings several times. Pray about them. Ask God to speak to you through these writings. 
Learn about the reading. The resource books which are presented to each lector offer commentaries on the readings. When was the reading written? Who was it written to? How might it apply to the world today?
Read the passages aloud. Go over any sections that are difficult for you. Also, read over the Prayers of the Faithful. Check with the priest or the sacristan on any words you’re not sure how to pronounce.
Ready to proclaim! ?
Please contact the office:
Parish Office
410-465-1670
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