Sunday Ministries
Lector Ministry
Purpose
At the core of the Protestant Reformation, historically, was the belief that lay persons should have access to both the liturgy and the scripture in their own language. This belief is reflected in the language of The Book of Common Prayer: “In all services, the entire Christian assembly participates in such a way that the members of each order… fulfill the functions proper to their respective orders, as set forth in the rubrical directions for each service.” For the service of Holy Eucharist lectors are specified for the two lessons preceding the Gospel, and for the Prayers of the People.
General Guidelines and Procedures
- Formal organization and scheduling apply only to late service lectors; selection of lectors for the earlier services is done by arrangement with regular attendees of those services.
- Draft schedules covering roughly half of the church year are distributed near Advent 1 and Pentecost. Lectors may request changes before the final schedule is printed. If a schedule conflict arises later, please contact someone on the list of lectors who can switch dates with you and contact the church office (587-6011) as early as possible so that correct names may appear in the bulletin.
- The first name listed reads the lessons, and the second reads the Prayers of the People.
- No special garb is required for lectors. Choir members who read usually just wear choir vestments. Members of the congregation are welcome to simply walk forward from the nave to read the lessons or prayers. If the (non-choir) lector wishes to be part of the procession, however, the appropriate dress is black cassock and white surplice (a supply of these is found in the acolyte vesting room on the second floor), and be sure to check with the clergy about where to position yourself in the procession and where to sit in the chancel.
- It is helpful if lectors planning to walk up from the congregation make their presence known to the clergy before the service, and they should sit near the front of the church during the service (preferably in the first five rows on the lectern side), so that they may easily and quickly reach the lectern. If reading two lessons, they should remain in the choir during the Psalm; if the Psalm is spoken (rather than sung), they should introduce it appropriately and lead the reading from the lectern.
- Lectors should be prepared in advance. For listeners to understand the lesson, the lector must understand it. If you have a question regarding the pronunciation of a word(s) in the lesson, consult with the clergy, or someone else who is knowledgeable about the scripture. There is a guide to the pronunciation of Biblical person and place names in the Library on the shelf to the right of the door that enters into the chancel. It helps to visit the church's website and to check the bulletin posted there to be certain the lessons you are planning to read correlate with those in the bulletin. This is usually available by the Friday before you are scheduled to read.
- Read clearly and plainly, with appropriate emphasis. Do not rush; do not “drag.” Try to tell a clear story or make a clear argument.
- Both scripture readings and the Prayers of the People are printed in the bulletin, a copy of which is on the lectern from the start of the service. (For the lessons, you may find it easier to read from the lectionary book itself located on the lectern, as the print is larger and it tells you what to say before and after the reading, but you should check before the service to make sure the correct page is open.)
- Scripture readings should be introduced as follows: “A Reading from Jeremiah” or “A Reading from Hebrews.” Nothing more (or less) is needed. Make discreet pause after you have introduced the reading before beginning the reading itself. Do the same at the end of the reading before saying “The Word of the Lord.” Please do not say “This is the Word of the Lord.”
- First-time lectors should familiarize themselves with the lectern a week or two before they read. There is a footstool you may choose to stand on or to push aside. The sound system is activated by pulling the switch toward you AND directing your first syllable straight into the microphone. Despite the sound system, more than a “conversational” voice is required; speak loudly and slowly and direct your voice into the microphone. The co-chairs or the clergy are happy to walk you through any of these procedures.
Thank you for serving in this vital ministry. A well read lesson can enhance and deepen someone's experience of worship. If you have any questions, please call the chair or the clergy at the church office.