St. Clement Catholic Church, Plant City, FL

BEING A READER AT ST. CLEMENT

BACKGROUND

When the Scriptures are read in the Church, God himself is speaking to his people, and Christ, present in his own word, is proclaiming the gospel. The reading of God’s word must therefore be listened to by all with reverence; they make up a principal element of the liturgy (GIRM # 29).

As such, those who serve in the Ministry of Reader share a great responsibility with other liturgical ministers to prepare and reflect on the readings in an effort to enhance the assembly’s experience of the liturgy. “The Church is nourished spiritually at the twofold table of God’s word and of the Eucharist: from the one it grows in wisdom and from the other in holiness.” (Lectionary for Mass # 10). The GIRM states: “If there are several readings, it is better to distribute them among a number of readers” (GIRM # 109).

REQUIREMENTS

Those who fulfill the ministry of reader should be members of the parish community and of sufficient age and competency to undertake this ministry. A rudimentary knowledge of the Bible, a willingness to learn about the scriptures and possession of the skills necessary for effective oral proclamation are deemed essential for this ministry.

TRAINING/FORMATION

St. Clement has developed an extensive and continuous training program for those who proclaim the scriptures in liturgy. Above all, the preparation and training of each individual reader will be spiritual. Spiritual preparation will include opportunities for praying and sharing, breaking open the Word and scripture study. The reader will also receive advice on the technical skills necessary to read publicly. Further, readers will be instructed in the basic elements of the liturgy. They will be made aware of the distinctions between the liturgical seasons, rites and the books of the liturgy.

IS THIS FOR YOU?

Our baptism calls us to service just as Christ came to serve. “For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Mk 10:45). Are you being called to the Reader Ministry at St. Clement?