The lector assists the priest at Mass by proclaiming from the ambo the readings that precede the Gospel, and if there is no cantor, the responsorial Psalm after the first reading.  The lector, after the introduction by the priest, also announces the intentions of the Prayer of the Faithful. In addition, at the beginning of the Mass, the lector reads any necessary administrative announcements and introduces the priest who will preside over the Mass.
 
The ministry of lector calls us to be servants of the Living Word of God. While reading the Word of God, lectors do not simply read, they proclaim what they deeply believe. This is a sacred task of a high order.
 
”When the Scriptures are read in the Church, God himself is speaking to his people and Christ, present in his own word, is proclaiming the Gospel. Those who read the Scriptures must be truly suited to perform this function and should receive careful preparation, so that the faithful, by listening to the readings from the sacred texts, may develop in their hearts a warm and living love for Sacred Scripture.” – 2010, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
 
Lectors should be Catholics who have received the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, First Eucharist, and Confirmation. Lectors should be practicing Catholics, in good standing with the Church and the parish community.
 
Our lector trainer periodically schedules training, which takes about one hour in the church. You will also be provided a lector workbook and other lector resources you will need. Lectors are then scheduled to proclaim one of the readings at a Mass which they regularly attend.