“The Word of God … proclaimed in the Liturgy is always … a living and effective word through the power of the Holy Spirit. It expresses the Father’s love that never fails in its effectiveness towards us …"
(John 4:23).
During the Liturgical celebration, it is the Lector’s humbling privilege and responsibility to be the human voice of God’s Living Word. Proclamation of the Mass’ Scripture readings is more than simply reading. The Lector’s proclamation engages the community of faith and prompts their response to God’s Word. As ministers of the Word, St. Mary’s lectors are responsible for readings from the Old and New Testaments and for reading the Prayers of the Faithful. In the case of daily Mass, the lector may also read the Responsorial Psalm.
To provide dedicated and well-prepared readers of the Word for each Mass. To allow worshippers to hear the Word at an appropriate pace, and with clarity and conviction such that they can experience the presence of Christ through the Word.
To maintain a diverse roster of devoted lectors and to encourage participation in the ministry, particularly to the newly confirmed.
Registered parishioners in good standing, fully initiated in the Catholic Church with excellent reading and enunciation skills are eligible to participate in this ministry. Lectors must have a deep reverence for and devotion to the Holy Scripture and respect for God’s presence in the Word. Lectors are also required to be VIRTUS trained. Contact Susan Guazzelli, if interested.
The scheduling of lectors is extremely flexible. There is no minimum requirement and preferred service times may be requested through an online ministry scheduling platform. Family members serving in more than one ministry may be bound such that they can be assigned to serve together.
Some St. Mary’s lectors also serve in other ministries and several previously served on the altar.
Each liturgical year, a workbook that contains readings, pronunciations, hints, and reflections is provided to lectors. Training and written guidelines for new lectors is also provided.
In collaboration with other ministry leaders and Fr. Stephen, Susan Guazzelli coordinates the scheduling process.
([email protected])
"Serving as a St. Mary’s lector and reading the Word aloud has truly been a privilege. Prayerful preparation has strengthened my understanding of the Scripture and has deepened my relationship with God.”