Readers at Mass proclaim the Word of God, enriching the liturgy and fostering a deeper understanding of scripture among the congregation.
Ministries

Readers at Mass (Lectors)

Readers at Mass proclaim the Word of God, enriching the liturgy and fostering a deeper understanding of scripture among the congregation.
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Readers at Mass proclaim the Word of God, enriching the liturgy and fostering a deeper understanding of scripture among the congregation.

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The ministry of a lector, also known as a reader, is an essential liturgical role within St. John the Evangelist Church. Lectors are responsible for proclaiming the Word of God during Mass, specifically the first and second readings from Sacred Scripture, which precede the Gospel. This ministry is deeply rooted in the tradition of the Church and plays a crucial role in the liturgical celebration.

Who is it for?

The role of a lector at St. John the Evangelist Church is suited for lay members of the church who feel called to participate more deeply in the Mass through the proclamation of the Word. It is a role that requires a person to be articulate, clear, and reverent in their delivery, ensuring that the congregation can fully absorb the rich tapestries of biblical texts.

Lectors are practicing Catholics who are in good standing with the Church and have a profound respect for Scripture.

Benefits of Joining

Becoming a lector offers numerous spiritual and communal benefits. It provides an opportunity to deepen one's faith and understanding of the Bible, as lectors engage with Scripture not just at Mass but in their preparation as well. This role enhances one's public speaking skills and confidence, which can be beneficial in both church-related and secular activities. Moreover, it fosters a closer connection to the parish community at St. John the Evangelist Church and offers a meaningful way to serve the Church, contributing to the spiritual life of the congregation.

Lectors help to facilitate a living encounter between the congregation and the Word of God. As they read the passages of Scripture, they are not merely reading words; they are mediating a conversation between God and His people. This ministry allows for a unique participation in the divine liturgy, where God's voice is heard through the human voice of the lector.

For those interested in becoming a lector at St. John the Evangelist Church, the next steps involve reaching out to the parish office or directly contacting the ministry coordinator, Jacque Wyatt, at 850-814-0410. Most parishes, including St. John the Evangelist, require lectors to undergo a training process, which typically includes both practical instruction in effective proclamation and spiritual formation to deepen one's understanding of the Scriptures. After training, lectors are usually scheduled to read during Masses on a rotating basis, depending on the parish's needs.

To begin this journey, potential lectors should express their interest to Jacque Wyatt and participate in the next available training session. This initial step is not only about learning the technical aspects of the role but also about discerning a deeper call to serve God and the community through the proclamation of His Word at St. John the Evangelist Church.

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