How to become a Reader at Mass
En EspañolOverview
The term “reader” refers to any member of the faithful or any person in religious or consecrated life who has been deputed – in the absence of an instituted Lector – to proclaim the readings from Sacred Scripture at Mass, except the Gospel. At Masses without a deacon, a reader also announces the intentions during the Universal Prayer of the Faithful. Readers also may be employed to make parish announcements, typically before Mass or following the Prayer after Communion. “If there is no singing at the Entrance or at Communion and the antiphons given in the Missal are not recited by the faithful, the reader may read them at the appropriate time.”
Requirements
Formation Process
Each candidate for this important ministry is to adhere to this formation process, as outlined in the Norms Governing the Liturgical Ministries. Given the circumstances in which we find ourselves, formation has been streamlined for easy completion, without sacrificing the importance of the content.
When you click the link below to begin formation, you will be asked to register on LEAD, our learning portal. Choose the EMHC learning path on the registration page (in English or Spanish), and then log in to begin your studies.
- You will see that there is an assignment to submit a letter of recommendation. Simply download the form, have your pastor complete it, and either upload it to LEAD or mail it back to The Institute for Catholic Formation, 238 Jewett Ave. Bridgeport, CT 06606.
- Courses online are simple, short, and straightforward. They are designed so you can complete them in one sitting per course. If you quit a course before you finish, you may have to restart that course.
- Upon completion of the required formation, each candidate will be given a letter of authorization by the Bishop which will allow him or her to serve in their respective parishes for a period of three years.
- To assist in your formation, we suggest checking out the Frequently Asked Questions page.
Secondary Mandates
Additional mandates are only required for EMHCs. If you serve one parish as a reader, please inform the pastor and, with his permission, you may serve at a secondary location.