The Lector Ministry
Lector is a Latin term for one who reads. In the Roman Catholic Church, the Lector proclaims the Scripture readings used in the Liturgy of the
Word from the official, liturgical book, or lectionary. As Lectors, we are the storytellers of the greatest story ever told.
Training and preparation are necessary for all Lectors. Proclaiming the Sacred Scripture is different from other kinds of public speaking. Not
only do Lectors need to be effective communicators, but they need to absorb and express the spirit of the Liturgy as well. Annual training
sessions are required each year, as are quarterly preparation meetings.
Speaking of readers at the Liturgy, Vatican II said, "They exercise a genuine liturgical function. They ought, therefore, to discharge their office
with the sincere piety and decorum demanded by so exalted a ministry and right expected of them by God's people. Consequently, they must all
be trained to perform their functions in a correct and orderly manner... Christ is present in His word since it is He Himself who speaks when the
Holy Scriptures are read in the church."
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