Lector Guide

St. Stephanus Lutheran Church: Lector Guide

Purpose

Moses instructed the people to hear and memorize the great stories of God's deliverance. Thus, Jesus is found in his hometown at a typical synogogue worship service reading from Isaiah 61. In the New Testament church, the stories continue to be read. You are the one who reads them to usl Also, when the lectors read, it demonstrates the great reformation doctrine of the "priesthood of all believers." The Bible is to be read and studied by all people, not just the pastor.

Difficulties

We are tempted to believe that everyone knows the text already. We can't add anything to it. We'll just read it as they follow along. We are tempted to believe that if I try to read it in an animated and excited way, then people will assume I'm being a "show off," not showing proper humility and respect for the text.

Truths

God uses people to proclaim the text. We can be a stumbling block to the text if we read it in a confused, quiet, or boring manner. On the other hand, by our attempt to convey the meaning of the text through our style of reading, we are making it easier for others to listen and modeling for the congregation a willingness to become involved with the text.

Duties

Read the lesson ahead of time. What is the point? What will you emphasize? Are there hard words to master?
Sit on the lectern side. Before the service begins, look at the order of service. Assume that you will read as indicated in the order. The lectern will have an enlarged copy of the scriptures. Also, if there is a choir piece between lessons, a chair will be provided.
Read clearly, loudly, and intentionally. Speak into the microphone and read in such a way that those who are hard of hearing can hear every word. Also, read in such a way that this text comes to life for the one who has heard it 100 times or is hearing it for the first time.
Begin the Old Testament lesson with the words, "Our first lesson is taken from the _______ chapter of _______." Read it. End with "This is the Word of the Lord."
Begin the New Testament with the words, "Our second lesson is taken from the _______ chapter of ________." Read it. End with "This is the Word of the Lord." Take your seat in the pew.
If you cannot read for a scheduled service, it is your responsibility to find someone who will take your place. Also, it is your responsibility to call the church office before Thursday noon to change the name.

Duties of a Lector Chairperson

In September, advertize for new greeters (bulletin, phone, etc.)
Ask each new member, if they would like to be a lector.
Provide training on a regular basis
Create and maintain a quarterly schedule and mail it to the lectors. Call the scheduled people on Wednesday to remind them. Also, give a schedule to the administrative assistant and keep him/her current of any changes.