The Lector Ministry

Lectors are laypersons who proclaim the readings from Sacred Scripture at Mass, with the exception of the Gospel.  In the absence of a deacon, they also announce the intentions for the Prayer of the Faithful and, in the absence of a psalmist, proclaim the Psalm between the readings. 

The Catholic Church speaks about the Lector ministry in the General Instruction of the Roman missal:

“When the Sacred Scriptures are read in the Church, God himself speaks to his people, and Christ, present in his own word, proclaims the Gospel.   Therefore, all must listen with reverence to the readings from God's word, for they make up an element of greatest importance in the Liturgy.”  (GIRM #29)

“Lectors…should be truly suited to perform this function and should receive careful preparation, so that the faithful, by listening to the readings from the sacred texts, may develop in their hearts a warm and living love for Sacred Scripture.” (GIRM #101)

All Lectors receive full training before being scheduled for readings at Mass.  Each lector also receives resource material to help them prepare spiritually and technically for each lectoring assignment.

The Lector is a mouthpiece through which God speaks to the Church.

Lectors are effective when they open their ears to hear God’s word and open their hearts to love God’s people.

Lectors take care of their spirit by spending time with the Holy Spirit.

Nurturing your spirit gives God more ways to use you.  You will be God’s servant in ways beyond imagining.

Anyone who feels drawn to the lector ministry is encouraged to contact Ned Kessler, Director of Liturgy, at 407 422-2005.