Lector Ministry Page
"Let the Word of God dwell in you richly..." (Col 3:16)
Proclaimer of the Word
Lectors have the responsibility to proclaim the Good News of Scripture to the Parish Community during daily and Sunday Masses as well as other Liturgical celebrations. They must convey the Word of God with feeling and clarity in order to create a deeper understanding of God's message to all.
Responsibilities
The Lector is responsible for preparing themselves to proclaim the scripture reading(s)... assigned to them
according to their schedule. Workbooks are provided
that contain the readings as well as pronunciation guides
and commentary. They are also responsible for reading
either the Prayers of the Faithful (Petitions) and/or the
Announcements at Sunday Mass. They must also be
mandated and trained by the Archdiocese (provided
twice a year), go through St. Leo orientation, and be
responsible for their scheduled services (finding subs
when needed).
For more info, download our Information Booklet.
In an article from the OWH on Sat, Oct 9th, Emily Nohr wrote about public speaking. Although not directly associated with Lectoring, there are some good points from the article I'd like to draw out (to view article, go to: http://www.omaha.com/article/20101009/LIVING/710099883).
"The audience (congregation) believes what they see more than what they hear."
If you are speaking about the Glory of God and your facial expressions and demeaner show that you are bored, tired, confused, worried, or anything else not related to the scripture reading, then that is what the congregation will get out of it.
"Find an objective listener and ask for feedback. You will learn from feedback, no matter how many years you've been speaking."
This is true for all Lectors (and musicians for that matter). That is why we began the buddy system last year: choosing three people whom you trust (one MUST be a Lector) and asking them to listen critically to your proclamation. If you lost your buddy card or have never received one, you can download it here: Buddy Card
"Spend quiet time to yourself before speaking"
I cannot stress the importance of this enough... that is why we have given all Lectors a special prayer to say before Mass. The EMHC's, Servers, and Musicians all do this as well, so that they can all prepare themselves for the Sacred Liturgy and not on the craziness of our own personal lives. If you do not have the prayer, you can download it here: Prayer Card
"Should my speaking voice be different from my normal voice?... NO."
Although not too often, I have heard Lectors change their voice when proclaiming sounding not like themselves, but as if they were trying to impersonate some other personna. Musicians are guilty of this at times too. The best we can sound (for ourselves and for others) is the way God made our voice and has taught us to use it. This still means to project, but project and enunciate the natural voice God has given you.
