And the Word became flesh and dwelt among
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. ” John 1: 14 THE MINISTRY OF LECTOR
Outline § PART I § Understanding of Ministry § Role of the Lector o Theology & Spirituality o History of the Ministry o Development of the Lectionary § Requirements of the Lector
Outline § PART II § Serving as a Lector at Mass o Preparation for o Before Mass o During Mass § Other aspects of the Ministry § Practicum
Materials Used § Power Point presentation § Handouts § Lectionary and Book of the Gospels § Handbook
Prayer
Luke 4: 16 -22 Jesus came to Nazareth, where he had grown up, and went according to his custom into the synagogue on the sabbath day. He stood up to read and was handed a scroll of the prophet Isaiah. He unrolled the scroll and found the passage where it was written: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord. ” Rolling up the scroll, he handed it back to the attendant and sat down, and the eyes of all in the synagogue looked intently at him. He said to them, “Today this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing. ” And all spoke highly of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth.
Understanding of Ministry
Ministry in the Church § Baptismal Call § To serve others--“Reborn as sons of God, the baptized must participate in the apostolic and missionary activity of the People of God” (CCC 1270). § To participate in the liturgy—“The baptismal seal enables and commits Christians to serve God by a vital participation in the holy liturgy of the Church” (CCC 1273).
I Corinthians 12: 4 -7 “There are different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit; there are different forms of service but the same Lord; there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone. To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit. ” • There are various ministries in liturgy • Each member is called to play a different role • Must discern our gifts and call by God to share those gifts
Ministry in the Church Each person has been given a gift from God GIFT Each person is called to share that gift with the Body of Christ NEED Realizing our gift comes from God HUMILITY
Ministry in the Church Definition of Ministry from The Ministry of Music by Fr. William Bauman “Ministry is service rendered out of love, and with a deep respect for the person served, after the model of Jesus. Ministry is never self-seeking; ministry is giving, and it is the kind of giving in which one loves the person one gives to. ”
Ministry in the Church Ministry is not: • Acting better or holier than another • Creating an elite in the parish • Rewarding someone • Self-gratifying performance Ministry is: • Humility • A way of contributing to our own salvation • Helping others move toward the Lord.
Ministry as Servant Leadership Wounded and Loved, Regathering the Scattered Bishop Bambera’s Pastoral Vision for the Church of Scranton § Footwashing at the Last Supper—John 13: 1 -15 § “We are called to lead lives deeply rooted in service— service to our God, neighbor, self, and creation” (6). § “Serving, one comes to realize that service to God and neighbor is also an act of leadership that differs in kind and orientation from what normally counts as leadership. Christian disciples lead as a result of faith, not because of personal success or institutional commitment” (6).
Ministry as Servant Leadership Wounded and Loved, Regathering the Scattered Bishop Bambera’s Pastoral Vision for the Church of Scranton § One of Bishop Bambera’s goals for servant leaders who worship is “Find ways to promote: liturgical catechesis in the parish, and improved quality of participation by parishioners of all ages in Sunday Mass, the calling of men and women to liturgical ministries, the training of liturgical ministers, both spiritually and functionally, and improved use of music and art to enhance liturgical celebrations in a way that the world can comprehend” (10).
Beginning Your Ministry • Examine how your gifts can best be shared • Take into consideration the preparation and time required • Attend theological and practical training necessary for this ministry • Be commissioned by the pastor for that particular ministry • Embrace forms of personal prayer that connect you to your particular area of service • Receive ongoing formation in that ministry – – – Prayer Study Attendance at parish or diocesan periods of reflection
Discussion Why have you agreed to serve as a Lector in your parish or community?
The Role of the Lector
Particular Functions of the Ministry • Proclaiming the word of God at Mass • Reading the Universal Prayer • Reading announcements • Serving as a Commentator
Theology of the Ministry • Jesus as a lector and homilist – Reading in the synagogue (Lk 4: 16 -20) • “His words caught the attention of everyone in the room. They no longer looked at the wall, their sandals, the ceiling, or the floor. They all turned their eyes toward Jesus. Something was happening. They were listening to the word of God read by the Word of God. They were listening to God. ” --Fr. Paul Turner, Guide for Lectors – Walking on the road to Emmaus (Lk 24: 25 -35) – Appearing to the disciples after the resurrection (Lk 24: 44 -49)
Theology of the Ministry • Jesus as a lector and homilist – Lectionary for Mass # 3: • “Thus in the Liturgy the Church faithfully adheres to the way Christ himself read and explained the Sacred Scriptures, beginning with the “today” of his coming forward in the synagogue and urging all to search the Scriptures. ”
Theology of the Ministry • The Word of God— 2 meanings – Christ is the Word or Logos • John 1: 1 -18: “In the beginning was the Word…” • The Word of the Father gives form and shape to all creation—“God, who creates and conserves all things by his Word, provides men with constant evidence of himself in created realities” CCC #54. • All creation is knowable, has order and logic
Theology of the Ministry • The Word of the Lord— 2 meanings – “The word of the Lord. ” • Sums up all the words of God since Christ is the center and fullness of Scripture – “Christ, the Son of God made man, is the Father’s one, perfect, and unsurpassable Word. In him, he has said everything; there will be no other word than this one” CCC #65. • Association between words proclaimed and all of salvation history fulfilled in Christ
Theology of the Ministry • The Word of the Lord – “The word of the Lord. ” • Connection between Liturgy of the Word and Liturgy of the Eucharist forming one act of worship – Memorializing past events (anamnesis) – Nourished in wisdom and holiness now – Looking forward to what is to come. • It is Christ himself who speaks when the Holy Scriptures are read in the Church, but he is present especially under the Eucharistic elements (Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy 7)
Theology of the Ministry • Giving life to the printed words of Scripture – The “sacramentality” of the words • Outward sign of an inward reality • Word goes forth from the reader • Fulfilled in the hearing of the assembly – “Today this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing” Lk 4: 21). • Achieves the sanctification of the faithful: – “Always, however, Christ is present in his word, as he carries out the mystery of salvation, he sanctifies humanity and offers the Father perfect worship” (Lectionary for Mass #4).
Theology of the Ministry • Being an instrument for God’s word – Requires “diving deeper” into the mystery of God’s Kingdom • “The word of the Lord” made perfect in Christ • We are disciples taught by the Master – Our participation in that mystery • Aware of the struggles and needs of others (intercessions) • Aware of the mission of the parish (announcements)
Theology of the Ministry • God’s word is the focus, we are its servants – Through his Word proclaimed, God speaks to us here and now • “When the Sacred Scriptures are read in the Church, God himself speaks to his people, and Christ, present in his own word, proclaims the Gospel. ” (General Instruction of the Roman Missal #29) – The working of the Holy Spirit is what makes what we hear have an impact on us internally – Each person will hear and be affected differently • “For their part, the faithful at the celebration of Mass are to listen to the word of God with an inward and outward reverence that will bring them continuous growth in the spiritual life and draw them more deeply into the mystery which is celebrated” Lectionary for Mass #45.
Theology of the Ministry • God’s word is the focus, we are its servants – Having first encountered God in the Word themselves, lectors become the means by which God, through the Holy Spirit, speaks to the faithful – One of Bishop Bambera’s goals: • “Help parishioners to understand that the same “Spirit” of God transforming the bread and wine at Eucharist is also breathing life into our scripture readings at Mass. ” Wounded and Loved, Regathering the Scattered – “Because of the Holy Spirit’s inspiration and support, the word of God becomes the foundation of the liturgical celebration and the rule and support of all our life. ” Lectionary for Mass # 9
Theology of the Ministry • The challenge proclaiming the word today – Professional speaking in the media – Attention drawn to visuals and entertainment • Language spoken is the primary form of communication – Human voice to human ear – Power and significance of human speech • Marriage proposal • Death of a loved one • Announcement of expecting a child – Immediacy of liturgical proclamation
History of the Ministry • 100 -313 AD: Early Christianity – Roles of bishops, deacons and other ministries evolved • Several documents references to the “order” and installation of lectors – Readings were probably cantillated similar to Jewish worship in the synagogue at that time – Development of canon of Scripture
History of the Ministry • 100 -313 AD: Early Christianity – Christians venerate Scripture similar to the Torah scrolls in Judaism • References to lectors entrusted with keeping the Scriptures = guardians of the Scriptures • Designated special chests or cabinets called amaria to keep them – Justin Martyr account of Eucharist: • “The records of the apostles or writings of the prophets are read for as long as time allows. Then, when the reader has finished, the president in a discourse admonishes [us] to imitate these good things. ” (First Apology)
History of the Ministry • 313 -750 AD: Post Constantine Period – Fixed ministry of Lector is well documented – Readings still done as cantillation (“lector chant”) – Worship spaces have cleared spaces and ambos for proclamation of the Word – Psalms now musically different than the other readings and done by a “psalmist” – Reverence for the Scriptures grew so that lectors were eventually replaced by higher ranking clergy, with the deacons responsible for reading the gospel.
History of the Ministry • 750— 1972 AD: Middle Ages to 20 th Century: – Ministry of the Lector is reserved to clergy or those in minor orders • 1972—present: Post Second Vatican Council – Paul VI, Ministeria Quaedam • Minor orders now known as ministries • Opened up the role of reader to the laity • Kept reader as an instituted role for candidates pursuing ordained ministry • Those instituted for this role are the proper ministers • Lay men and women share in this ministry as non-instituted lectors commissioned for service
History of the Ministry • General Instruction of the Roman Missal (2002) – “The function of proclaiming the readings is by tradition not presidential but ministerial. Therefore the readings are to be read by a reader, but the Gospel by the Deacon, or, in his absence, by another Priest” (#59). – “In the absence of an instituted lector, other laypersons may be commissioned to proclaim the readings from Sacred Scripture, people who are truly suited to carrying out this function and carefully prepared, so that by their hearing the readings from the sacred texts the faithful may conceive in their hearts a sweet and living affection for Sacred Scripture” (#101).
Development of the Lectionary • Second Vatican Council (1962 -1965) – Previously limited use of Scripture at Mass • Two readings—Epistle & Gospel • Same cycle of readings every year – Expanded use of Scripture at Mass • “The treasures of the bible are to be opened up more lavishly, so that richer fare may be provided for the faithful at the table of God’s word. In this way a more representative portion of the holy scriptures will be read to the people in the course of a prescribed number of years. ” (Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy 51) – Much larger perspective on the mysteries of our faith
Development of the Lectionary • Lectionary Cycle – The Liturgical Year—celebrating the central mysteries of our faith in their fullness • Advent/Christmas Seasons – Christ’s Final Coming – Remembering Christ’s First Coming • • • Winter Ordinary Time—inauguration of the Kingdom Lent—the cost of discipleship Easter Season—the New Order Ordinary Time—growth of the Kingdom Sunday as the primary day for worship
Development of the Lectionary • Lectionary Cycle – 3 Year Cycle for Sundays • • • Year A, B, C divide by 3 Volume I – Synoptic (“same view”) Gospels • Matthew, Mark & Luke – John—different perspective – symbolized by winged characters from Revelation 4: 7
Development of the Lectionary • Lectionary Cycle – Year A—Matthew • • • symbol: human/angel Writing for a Jewish audience Argues for faith in Jesus based on his fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies • Presents the Kingdom of God which involves a new way of seeing and valuing the world
Development of the Lectionary • Lectionary Cycle – Year B—Mark • symbol: lion • The Markan Secret—when someone identifies Jesus, he instructs them not to reveal him • Leads us to question, “Who is Jesus for us? ”
Development of the Lectionary • Lectionary Cycle – Year C—Luke • • symbol: ox or bull Salvation is offered to the whole world Women are on the same level as men Embracing all of humanity is the measure of discipleship
Development of the Lectionary • Lectionary Cycle – John—symbol: eagle • • • Interspersed all three years Supplements Mark in Year B Offers an advanced theological reflection of Jesus Shows more of the authority & divinity of the Son Miracles performed by Jesus are called “signs” Our personal agenda is to be set aside for the “greater glory of God”
Development of the Lectionary • Lectionary Cycle – 2 Year Cycle for Weekdays • • Year I—odd years—Volume II Year II—even years—Volume III Different First Readings (except Lent) Same Gospel – Readings for certain occasions • • • Volume IV Proper and Common of Saints Votive and Ritual Masses for Various Needs Masses for the Dead
Development of the Lectionary • Readings at Mass – Similar themes between the readings – Gospel passage was chosen first – First Reading • Chosen because of its connection to or fulfillment in the Gospel • From Old Testament, except during Easter season when it is taken from Acts of the Apostles – Responsorial Psalm • One of the psalms or canticles in O. T. • Selected because it reflects theme in the First Reading – Second Reading—one of the Epistles in New Testament, and usually read continuously over the course of several weeks
Development of the Lectionary • Book of the Gospels—based on the earlier tradition of having a separate book containing the gospel passages and is a sign of Christ present in the liturgy. • Use of Liturgical Books – The Lectionary and Book of the Gospels should be worthy, dignified and beautiful (Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy 122) – Reading from worship aids, workbooks or paper are strongly discouraged: • “Because of the dignity of the word of God, the books of readings used in the celebration are not to be replaced by other pastoral aids, for example, by leaflets printed for the preparation of the readings by the faithful or for their personal meditations” Lectionary for Mass #37.
Discussion Who are your models for this ministry? Whom have you seen perform this ministry well?
Requirements of Lectors
Basic Requirements • Must be a fully initiated Catholic in good standing – Having received the Sacrament of Confirmation – Age 14 or 15 • Must be registered and active members of the parish • If married, must be in a valid marriage. • Life must be led according to the values and morals of the Catholic Church
Basic Requirements • Spiritual and Liturgical Formation: – “It is necessary that those who exercise the ministry of reader…be truly suited and carefully prepared, so that the faithful may develop a warm and living love for Sacred Scripture from listening to the sacred readings. – Their preparation must above all be spiritual, but what may be called a technical preparation is also needed. The spiritual preparation presupposes at least a biblical and liturgical formation. The purpose of their biblical formation is to give readers the ability to understand the readings in context and to perceive by the light of faith the central point of the revealed message. – The liturgical formation ought to equip the readers to have some grasp of the meaning and structure of the Liturgy of the Word and of the significance of its connection with the Liturgy of the Eucharist. The technical preparation should make the readers more skilled in the art of reading publicly, either with the power of their own voice or with the help of sound equipment” (Lectionary for Mass #55).
Basic Requirements • Developed communication skills – Articulation – Phrasing and Breathing – Dynamics – Rhythm and pace – Vocal variety – Emphasis/Stress of certain words – Eye Contact – Posture – Presence
Living the Sacramental Life • Goal is individuals whose exemplary Catholic life and morals reflect well upon the Catholic Church • Spiritual attributes needed or be willing to develop: – – Humility Concern for the community Gratitude Reverence—both to the Eucharistic elements and the ecclesial Body of Christ • Avoiding: – Grave sin – failure to attend Mass – A choice not to maintain communion with the teachings of the Church
Living the Sacramental Life • Take advantage of the Sacrament of Reconciliation • You are called to proclaim the word of God to others • Not just about fulfilling a function on Sunday morning, but sharing the very life of and building up the Body of Christ
Participation in the Liturgy • Participate fully in the Mass – – – Attentive listening Singing hymns and acclamations Making responses confidently Engaging in silent prayer Focused on the sacred action • Understand liturgical gestures and postures that convey reverence for the Blessed Sacrament and the altar • Have the ability to walk in the entrance procession and from where you are seated to the ambo. • Have the ability to carry the Book of the Gospels reverently during the entrance procession.
Ongoing Prayer and Formation • Develop your own person spirituality – Spiritual reading, especially on the Scriptures – Popular and personal devotions – Allow time for quiet and reflection • Offer prayers outside of Mass for the community or parish you serve • Participate in ongoing and communal formation for your ministry, especially opportunities for group feedback
Serving as a Lector at Mass
Preparation at Home • Preparation at Home – Reading the passages well in advance • • Develop familiarity with the texts Look up pronunciations and be comfortable with them Opportunity to think about the readings during the week Experience the world in light of the readings – Consider reading more than the prescribed readings • Read all of the passages for your scheduled liturgy • Consider reading all of the Scripture passages for the entire season – Every season appoints more of focus on a particular aspect of Jesus’ life – Every sacrifice of the Mass is a celebration of the Paschal Mystery
Preparation at Home • Reflect on the readings – What words or phrases “jumped” out at you? – Even though you may be familiar with the reading, did anything strike you as new? – Before presenting these readings at Mass, you should pray through them yourself. – Look the reading up in a bible and read what comes before and after – Establish connections between the readings and everyday life – Use a resource to reflect deeper on the meaning of the readings – Participate in a bible-study/faith-sharing group
Preparation at Home • Reflect on the readings – Discerning how the type of reading should affect your proclamation at Mass – Types of readings • Narrative—telling a story • Discourse—speech or letter offering an argument or explanation • Poetry—metaphors or repetitions that reveal a deeper truth about God and life • Prayer—always addressed to God and poetic in nature
Preparation at Home • Using resources to assist with your proclamation – Annual Lector Resources (see resources handout) • • • Background on the readings Learn pronunciations Suggestions for tone, inflections, and pace – Practice with an objective listener – Record yourself reading – Look into a mirror while reading
Attire § “Bodily demeanor (gestures, clothing) ought to convey the respect, solemnity and joy of the moment when Christ becomes our guest” (CCC 1387 b). § Dress in a way that is dignified and shows respect for the Blessed Sacrament and your function as a Lector § “Sunday best” § Nothing that calls attention to the minister § Logo shirts or revealing clothing § Shoes that allow quiet and reverent movement
Items Used at Mass • Lectionary— 4 volumes – – • • • Volume 1: Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation Volume 2: Weekdays I Volume 3: Weekdays II Volume 4: Common of Saints, Ritual Masses, Votive Masses, Masses for Various Needs, Masses for the Dead Book of the Gospels Ambo/Pulpit/Lectern Microphone Copy of the Universal Prayer (Prayer of the Faithful) Copy of the Announcements (if lector’s responsibility)
Serving at Mass • Each lector should undergo specialized training in his or her parish – Learning specific or different practices of that parish – Answer any specific questions the new lector may have
Serving at Mass • Before Mass – Checking in • Arrive 15 -20 minutes early for your ministry • First or Second Reading: – “Whenever there is more than one reading, it is better to assign the readings to different readers, if available” (Lectionary for Mass #52). • • Universal Prayer (Intercessions)? Carrying in the Book of the Gospels? Announcements? Any special instructions?
Serving at Mass • Before Mass – Review the readings in the Lectionary – Know the pronunciation of names, especially intercessions – Inquire if there are words you don’t know – Make sure the lectionary is out at the ambo
Serving at Mass • Introductory Rites – Procession in with the Book of the Gospels • • • Only done by the lector if a deacon is not present Elevation Bowing with the Book of the Gospels Movement around the altar (right or left? ) Placement on altar (placed flat in the center) – table of the Word and table of the Eucharist are joined together in this symbolic act – “For in the Mass is spread the table of both God’s Word and of the Body of Christ, and from it the faithful are to be instructed and refreshed. ” (GIRM #28).
Serving at Mass • Introductory Rites – Seating – Dismissal for Children’s Liturgy of the Word – Bowing to the altar
Serving at Mass • Liturgy of the Word – Silence in between readings—GIRM #56 • “The Liturgy of the Word is to be celebrated in such a way as to favor meditation, and so any kind of haste such as hinders recollection is clearly to be avoided. ” • “It may be appropriate to observe such periods of silence, for example, before the Liturgy of the Word itself begins, after the First and Second Reading, and lastly at the conclusion of the Homily. ” • Should be purposely observed
Serving at Mass • Liturgy of the Word – Communication skills utilized • enunciation—first and last consonants (think Wheel of Fortune) distinct
Serving at Mass • Liturgy of the Word – Communication skills utilized • enunciation—first and last consonants (think Wheel of Fortune) distinct • Phrasing and Breathing—find appropriate places to breathe; from lungs not head; dealing with sound delays
Serving at Mass • Liturgy of the Word – Communication skills utilized • enunciation—first and last consonants (think Wheel of Fortune) distinct • Phrasing and Breathing—find appropriate places to breathe; from lungs not head; dealing with sound delays • Dynamics—gives expression; people used to hearing by turning up the volume; loud enough that the microphone supplements the voice
Serving at Mass • Liturgy of the Word – Communication skills utilized • enunciation—first and last consonants (think Wheel of Fortune) distinct • Phrasing and Breathing—find appropriate places to breathe; from lungs not head; dealing with sound delays • Dynamics—gives expression; people used to hearing by turning up the volume; loud enough that the microphone supplements the voice • Rhythm and pace—variety in pace, quicker phrases/clauses; overall, take your time
Serving at Mass • Liturgy of the Word – Communication skills utilized • Vocal variety—makes narration more interesting, emphasizes • Emphasis/Stress—to communicate certain meaning, don’t overdramatize – Non-verbal communication • Eye Contact—establishes connection with the listener; use your finger to maintain your place in the reading
Serving at Mass • Liturgy of the Word – Communication skills utilized • Vocal variety—makes narration more interesting, emphasizes • Emphasis/Stress—to communicate certain meaning, don’t overdramatize – Non-verbal communication • Eye Contact—establishes connection with the listener; use your finger to maintain your place in the reading • Posture/Gestures—done with meaning and establishes confidence in proclamation • Presence—aware of the sacredness of the moment – Combination of all these (think golf swing)
Serving at Mass • Liturgy of the Word – Proclaiming your reading • • Take a moment to focus Do not read summary “A reading from…” (nothing else!) and pause Proclaim the reading utilizing your spiritual insights and communication skills prepared during the week • Pause and then “The word of the Lord. ” (nothing else!) • Moment to reflect • Put the lectionary away if last reader before gospel
Serving at Mass • Liturgy of the Word – Reading the Intercessions • Express the needs of Church, world, nation, community & parish • Deacon’s role as a ministry of service • Move towards the ambo during the “Holy Spirit” part of the creed • Do not rush through • Maintain confidence in reading names • Eye contact as a cue for assembly’s response
Serving at Mass • Accidents or problems (troubleshooting) – If you make a mistake in the reading – If you mispronounce a name – If you read the wrong reading
Serving at Mass • Accidents or problems (troubleshooting) – If you make a mistake in the reading – If you mispronounce a name – If you read the wrong reading – You’re the only lector to show up • Return to your seat following the first reading • Check with parish practice – “Stage Fright”—prepare to confidence is the best way to overcome – Noise – Overall, stay calm and keep reverence
Other Aspects of the Ministry • The lector does not participate in the procession at the end of Mass • Multiple or optional readings • Palm Sunday and Good Friday • Holy Saturday • Sequences
Questions?
Practicum
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