The Lord God has given me a well-trained tongue, that I may know how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse them.

(Isaiah 50:4)

The ministry of reading is a charism for the building up of the community, and it does require some natural abilities such as confidence, poise and sensitivity to the listeners. Reading skills, the ability to develop proclamation techniques and a clear and steady voice are attributes of a good Reader. But comfort with public speaking, while an important gift, does not in itself render a person capable of effective liturgical proclamation, for our purpose is to celebrate the faith shared by the worshipers.

You are invited to this program of training and formation offered over 1 full day, which will provide guidelines for the ministry and practical training in the following areas:

• history and theology of the ministry
• reading different genres of Sacred Scripture
• dramatisation versus proclamation
• voice projection
• eye contact
• posture
• reading General Intercessions (the Prayer of the Faithful)
• update on the ministry of Reader from the General Instruction of the Roman Missal -- 2003 edition

The Reader will learn to proclaim the Word transparently so that the Word itself, not the proclaimer, is placed in the foreground. Those practicing Catholics who take on the responsibility of the ministry of reader are presumed to be of good faith, eager to serve their fellow Christians, and willing to engage in ongoing formation to improve the effectiveness of their service. All presently-serving readers of the Word are asked to make every effort to attend one of these sessions as part of their continuing training and spiritual formation in this ministry.

Participants will receive a certificate recognising their completion of the program and deeming them eligible for commissioning or renewal in their commission as readers in their parishes.

Sessions in 2012:

To be advised

Registration Form