8:00 PM -
9:30 PM
‘You are the prized instruments of God.’
(The Word of the Lord)
Caesarius of Arles, 5th Centrury -
Brothers and sisters, here is a question for you:
Which to you seems greater, the Word of God or the Body of Christ?
What do you think of this statement?
If you want to give the right answer, you will reply that God’s word is not less than Christ’s body. Therefore, just as we take care when we receive the Body of Christ that no part falls to the ground, so we should likewise ensure that the word of God, which is given to us, is not lost to our souls because we are speaking or thinking about something different.
One who listens negligently to God’s word is just as guilty as one who, through carelessness, allows Christ’s body to fall to the ground.
Lectors’ Guidelines
PREPARATION
Scripture reflection, plus oral practice at home or in any other suitable place.
At the church, having arrived on time, visit the sacristy and let the celebrant know
that you are Proclaiming the Word.
Check the Lectionary to make sure it is opened in the right place and the Prayer of the Faithful text.
Always read from the Lectionary, never from a leaflet, booklet or pastoral publication.
Check to make sure the microphone is turned on.
If possible join the Entrance Procession.
When possible process in with the Book of the Gospel and place it on the Altar when reaching the Sanctuary.
Opening Prayer – Amen
Go to the Ambo without leaflets, having bowed to the Altar with the other Lector.
Do not genuflect.
At the Ambo, prepare for any overleaf text.
Wait until everyone is settled before beginning.
FIRST READING
Pronounce the introduction, (A reading from ….) and only that.
Do not read text in italics under this .
Take a Breath before starting the reading.
Proclaim the Word. Note emphasis, inflections, phrasing and pace.
Take a breath.
Pronounce with strength the conclusion to the reading –The Word of the Lord – wait for the response.
If applicable, go to the side to make way for the Psalmist or cantor.
Silence - - Count to 10
PSALM
Ideally this is sung.
If not, and it can only be recited, announce the refrain, and only that.
The members of the assembly repeat the refrain. Do not say it with them.
Deliver the first verse.
Look at the assembly for their response – do not say ‘response’.
Deliver the next verse and repeat the formula.
After the final verse and the final response of the assembly go to the side if there is a second lector.
Silence – count to 10
The second lector goes to the Ambo
SECOND READING
If there is no other lector, then after 10 seconds following the Psalm,
Pronounce the introduction, (A reading from ….) and only that.
Do not read text in italics under this.
Take a Breath before starting the reading.
Proclaim the Word. Note emphasis, inflections, phrasing and pace.
Take a breath.
Pronounce with strength the conclusion to the reading –The Word of the Lord – wait for the response.
If there is Gospel procession with the Book of the Gospels,
take the Lectionary and put it in the appointed place.
If applicable, go to the side to make way for the Psalmist or cantor.
Silence - - Count to 10
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION
If possible Sing the Gospel Acclamation, or join the choir in singing it.
Do not say the Alleluia or verse.
If the Alleluia is sung then the verse may be sung or left out but not said.
Move away from the Ambo and bow to the Altar on the way back to the seat.
Gospel / Homily / Profession of Faith
INTERCESSIONS
Check with the celebrant before Mass about the prayer.
Begin to make your way to the Altar towards the end of the Profession of Faith.
As the celebrant goes to the Chair to begin the Prayer, take your place at the Ambo.
Announce the intention. Count to 10 before saying ‘Lord hear us’ or the like.
While the Celebrant concludes the Prayer the assembly affirm with their Amen, return to your seat outside the sanctuary.