Liturgy - Friday, August 14, 2009 19:54 - 0 Comments

Ministry of Lectors

Proclamation of the Word
The proclamation of the Word of God is truly a ministry in the Church. Lectors bring the living Word of God to the liturgical assembly. In and through them God speaks to the gathered faithful. The ministry of the Word, therefore, is treated seriously and with great dignity.

The Word of God is not merely read during the liturgy. It is proclaimed. Effective proclamation involves the delivery of the message with clarity, conviction and appropriate pace. Proclamation is a special ministry which presupposes faith and also rouses faith in those who hear the Word proclaimed. Ideally, members of the assembly listen to the proclamation of the Scriptures and do not read along in missalettes. In the act of communal listening, the worshippers experience not only unity among themselves but also the presence of Christ speaking to them through the Word Listening is not an isolated moment. It is a way of life. It means openness to the Lord’s voice not only in the Scriptures but in the events of our daily lives and in the experience of our brothers and sisters. It is not just my listening but our listening together for the Lord’s word to the community (Fulfilled in Your Hearing: The Homily in the Sunday Assembly #20 National Conference of Catholic Bishops).

All liturgical ministers, especially the ministers of the Word, must be properly trained for their ministry. The ministry of the Word requires skill in public reading, knowledge of the principles of liturgy, and an understanding and love of the scriptures.

Lector training courses are offered through Tepeyac Institute, a diocesan school of formation for ministries. You may call: 915-872-8420 or e-mail Tepeyac@elpasodiocese.org for more information on the course.

If you feel called to the Ministry of Lectors at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, please contact: Yolanda Quesada 915-859-7824.