READERS

The reader is responsible for proclaiming the scripture clearly and expressively. The reader models respect and reverence for the sacred word of God.

QUALIFICATIONS

The reader should

• have a clear, expressive voice
• have a reverence for Scripture

RESPONSIBILITIES

1 Check in with the Liturgy Coordinator at least 10 minutes before the start of liturgy.

2 Prepare the Lectionary and place it on the ambo (lectern).

3 Return to the Sacristy area and prepare the Book of Gospels, which will be carried by the deacon or by Reader 1 during Procession (see below).

4 IF THERE IS ONE READER

• PROCESSION WITH DEACON Reader processes in with songbook in front of deacon, bows to the altar table and takes a seat in the assembly.
• PROCESSION WITH ACOLYTE Reader processes in front of acolyte carrying Book of Gospels at eye level, walks directly up steps without a bow and walks behind the altar on the left side. Facing the assembly, the Reader stands the Book on its edge in the center of altar table, then (without bowing) takes a seat in the assembly.
• The Reader approaches the ambo (without bowing) and proclaims the First Reading
• When the choir begins the introduction to the Psalm, the Reader takes a seat near the ambo for the Psalm.
• At the conclusion of the Psalm and a moment of prayerful silence, the Reader stands at the ambo and proclaims the Second Reading.
• After the Reading, the Reader places the Lectionary on a shelf in the ambo and returns (without bowing) to seat in the assembly.

5 IF THERE ARE TWO READERS

• PROCESSION WITH DEACON Readers process in with songbooks in front of deacon, bow to the altar table and take a seat in the assembly.
• PROCESSION WITH ACOLYTE Reader 1 processes in front of acolyte carrying Book of Gospels at eye level, walks directly up steps without a bow and walks behind the altar on the left side. Facing the assembly, Reader 1 stands the Book on its edge in the center of altar table, then (without bowing) takes a seat in the assembly. Reader 2 processes in with songbook in front of priest and acolyte, bows to the altar table, and takes a seat in the assembly.
• At the time of the First Reading, Reader 1 approaches the ambo and proclaims the First Reading. After proclaiming, Reader 1 remains standing at the ambo until the choir begins the introduction to the Psalm; then returns (without bowing) to a seat in the assembly.
• At the conclusion of the Psalm, Reader 2 approaches the ambo, proclaims the Word, and places the Lectionary on a shelf in the ambo. At the beginning of the Gospel Acclamation, Reader 2 returns (without bowing) to a seat in the assembly.

6 After the presider dismisses the assembly, the Reader(s) approach the altar steps from their seats in assembly.

7 Readers make a profound bow when the priest and deacon/acolyte bow.

8 Readers process out carrying their songbooks. The Book of Gospels is never carried out.

SACRISTANS

• Arrive at the church at least 45 minutes before liturgy.
• Tend to the lights, climate controls and windows for ventilation.
• Assist the liturgical ministry coordinator in preparing the church for worship.
• Lay out the vessels, vestures and books required for the liturgy.
• Assist other ministers in carrying out their preparations.
• See to the good order of the church after liturgy.
• After liturgy check the climate controls and turn out the lights.
• Close the windows and lock the doors.

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