“At St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church,” says ministry coordinator Mike Wrzesien, “the lector ministry plays a vital role in the celebration of the Mass. Lectors are more than just readers; they are proclaimers of the Word of God, tasked with bringing the sacred scriptures to life for the parish community.” As those who attend Mass at St. Francis know, the dedication and reverence our lectors demonstrate help to foster a deeper understanding and connection to the divine message within the congregation.
“The primary responsibility of a lector,” adds Mike, “is to proclaim the scripture readings during Mass, which typically include the Old Testament, New Testament, and the Prayers of the Faithful.” These readings are not simply a recitation but an act of service and faith. He emphasizes, “A well-prepared lector reads with clarity, conviction, and reverence, ensuring that the words are heard and understood by all the faithful in attendance.” Through their tone, pace, and emphasis, lectors can illuminate the meaning and significance of the biblical texts. Lectors strive to embody the spirit of the readings, resonating within the hearts of parishioners to make the Word truly alive and relevant.
“The lector ministry is deeply rooted in fundamental Catholic teachings, emphasizing key aspects of our faith and identity,” says Mike. These aspects include the Catholic teaching, as stated in the ‘General Instruction of the Roman Missal,’ affirming that Christ is truly present in the proclaimed Word. The reading of scripture in the Church is when God himself speaks to his people through the Gospel. “The lector, therefore, becomes the vessel through which Christ speaks to the assembly,” Mike points out, “making the Liturgy of the Word a true encounter with the divine for all present.” The ministry highlights the Church’s reverence for Sacred Scripture as the inspired Word of God. By proclaiming the readings, lectors affirm the centrality of the Bible in the life of the Church and its power to form and guide the faithful.
The lector’s role also underscores that the Mass is composed of two inseparable parts: the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, so closely connected that they form but one single act of worship. Mike says of the ministry, “Lectors facilitate the assembly’s full participation in the Liturgy of the Word, preparing their hearts and minds to receive Christ in the Eucharist.” He believes that serving as a lector is a powerful expression of the laity’s call to active participation in the Church’s mission. He says, “It exemplifies the teaching of the Second Vatican Council on the universal call to holiness. This call is for all baptized persons to use their gifts to build up the Body of Christ. Lectors exercise their baptismal priesthood by ministering to their fellow parishioners in this essential way.”
“By prayerfully preparing and proclaiming the sacred texts,” Mike emphasizes, “significant spiritual benefits accrue to the individuals in the ministry. Lectors engage with the Word of God on a deeper level. The act of proclaiming the Word can also lead to a more intimate relationship with God.” He has felt that this experience can be profoundly moving, and sees how it can deepen his own faith and sense of purpose within the church community. He says, “The prayerful preparation and reflection required for this ministry often lead to personal growth and a richer spiritual life.”
For parishioners who are interested in joining the lector ministry, please spend some time in prayer. Ask for guidance from the Holy Spirit. Is this a calling for you? The commitment typically involves one Mass per month, accompanied by an annual training session. To find out more, contact Mike Wrzesien at 919-624-1592 or by email: wrzesien1963@gmail.com.