Mission: Those participating in the Lector ministry are called to proclaim the Word of God for Masses offered on Saturday, Sundays, Holy Days, and other special services throughout the Church year. At Masses without a deacon, Lectors also offer the Prayers of the Faithful. At Masses without music, Lectors also lead the Entrance Antiphon, Lamb of God, and Communion Antiphon. The Lector’s task is to reveal God’s presence in the liturgy of the living Word for our parish community.
Eligibility: Any Baptized Catholic who attends Mass weekly, is living according to the moral teachings of the faith, and possesses the necessary public speaking ability, may serve in this ministry. The Lector must be able to proclaim the Scriptures from the depths of their lived faith.
Vatican II has this to say about the Lector/ reader:
“Readers exercise a genuine liturgical function. They ought to discharge their office therefore, with the sincere devotion and decorum by so exalted a ministry and rightly expected of them by God’s people. Consequently, they must be deeply imbued with the spirit of liturgy, in the measure of proper to each one. And they must be trained to perform functions in a correct and orderly manner”
Commitment: Most Lectors are scheduled to read at Mass twice in a five week period. They may contact Ron Turcotte (see below) in advance to request any dates off that they know they will be unavailable. If a schedule conflict arises once the schedule is already finished, however, it is the Lector’s responsibility to call other ministers and arrange coverage.
Training: New Lectors receive a short training session to review current guidelines and procedures before serving at their first Mass. They also receive guidance in their public speaking. Once serving, Lectors are provided seasonally with a workbook to help them understand the readings in historical / spiritual / liturgical context.
Contact: For further information, scheduling requests, or to apply to be a Lector, please call Mr. Ron Turcotte at 508-429-5396.
A Lector Prayer: Come Holy Spirit, into my mind and my heart as I read these Sacred Scriptures. Inspire me with Your grace to proclaim this Living Word with sincerity and reverence. Help me to focus on the Word and discern its meaning so that I can communicate it clearly and enthusiastically. Each time I approach the Ambo, remind me that I am on holy ground and that the Ministry of proclaiming the Scriptures is a sacred trust. I place all my trust in You, that through Your power, the people of God will hear and accept the Word into their hearts.
Lector Spirituality: The above prayer for Lector’s, describes the focus and challenge before each Lector. Being a Lector is more than just being a good reader. Our focus is centered on proclaiming God’s Word as a living revelation and guide for His people. Lectors should have a genuine love of God’s Word, embracing the Scriptures as part of their daily prayer life.
Vatican II: Click here for a document produced by the Second Vatican Council that beautifully explains the role of God’s Word as the revelation of His truth and love to His people.