Role of a Lay Reader
What is the Role of a Lay Reader?
Lay Readers have made a specific commitment to their Bishop, their Parish
priest and Church wardens to use their skills and their developing gifts in
ministry to the glory of God and for the benefit of the people within and beyond
their own congregations. The service of Lay Readers is performed in the conduct
of public worship, instruction in the Christian faith, the provision of pastoral
care within their community and other duties as requested of them. Authority is
given by the Bishop in the form of a license following a probationary period of
training.
The duties of a Lay Reader will vary according to Parish needs. Each Lay Reader
must give prayerful consideration to how best to reconcile the concept of their
vocation with the whole-hearted cooperation and support of the Incumbent.
Typically Lay Readers perform such functions as reading lessons, administering
the chalice, leading the Prayers of the People, sharing leadership in and
planning for public worship services, including giving a homily or sermon. When
appropriately trained, Lay Readers may be called upon for more extensive
ministry, preparing and conducting services of Morning and Evening Prayer in
their own parish, or in another parish. They may take on leadership roles in
parish events, committees, training sessions or taking Reserved Sacrament to the
sick or shut-ins with a special Episcopal permission.
In order to begin a probationary period as a Lay Reader, one is either
approached by their parish priest, or one may approach their priest who will
seek approval of the Parish Council. A request is then forwarded to the Bishop
who will contact the Pastor to Lay Readers to initiate a period of training.
The parochial ministry of a Lay Reader is supervised by the parish priest, with
accountability to the Bishop and the Pastor to Lay Readers. Lay Readers are
expected to follow a pattern of daily prayer and ongoing study, and to attend a
number of retreats and conferences each year.
Parish Support for Lay Readers
(adopted 13th of February, 2007, at a meeting of Diocesan Council)
Diocesan Council encourages parishes to contribute to the cost of the
registration fees and travel costs of their Lay Readers participating in
educational events approved by the Pastor to Lay Readers as part of the
requirements for ongoing licensing. The Council also requested that the Pastor
to Lay Readers publish the list of approved events to assist parishes.
Using the Services of a Lay Reader
Diocesan clergy are reminded to direct their requests for the services of a
Lay Reader by calling Margery Brown at 450-462-4397.
A compiled list of Lay Readers, with designation of categories concerning travel
abilities (Deanery only, Archdeaconry, Diocesan) enables Margery Brown to fill
all requests.
The Lay Readers' Association
The Montreal area Lay Readers enjoy opportunities to meet, to share meals,
and to worship together several times a year. Two key events are a Study Day in
the Autumn and a Retreat in the Spring. These events are well-attended and are
welcome opportunities for fellowship, for sharing and learning.
The Association publishes a quarterly newsletter. Past newsletters are available
on this website.
For further information, please call the Diocesan Offices at
514-843-6577.
