This guide is a valuable tool for enriching our understanding of the liturgy, the Word, and why we proclaim it. The book combines inspiring biblical and liturgical content with professional speaking techniques to help readers prepare for God’s Word to flow through them.

Lisa Matchette, reader, St. James Cathedral, Seattle

It would be enough that this impressive book offers the reminders I regularly need in preparing to proclaim the Word of God, such as minding my pacing and paying attention to my nonverbal presentation. To my delight, it also includes substantial material on how to understand what I proclaim, material that will not only help me be a more effective proclaimer, but also a more dedicated disciple of Christ. This is a remarkable resource—one that will certainly help me nurture "a sweet and living affection for Sacred Scripture" in myself and, with God’s grace, my fellow parishioners.

Mark Schoen, reader, St. James Cathedral, Seattle

Two things make the second edition of this guide special. First is its rich explanation of the liturgy as the foundation of our Catholic identity. Second is the need for lectors to gain a deep understanding and love for the liturgy as the fountain from which listeners draw strength to go forth and do Christ’s work. As well as instructing readers about many ministry skills and duties, the book warmly encourages lectors at all experience levels to realize their daunting responsibility to uphold the beauty of the liturgy with well-proclaimed readings.

George Miller, creator of lectorresources.com

Written by an extraordinary group of experts in a joyful and prayerful tone, this book describes all the skills and responsibilities pertinent to the reader ministry. It is an excellent resource for novices as well as seasoned proclaimers of God’s Word, and in addition, it invites continued growth and ongoing spiritual conversion.

Scott Webster, reader, St.James Cathedral, Seattle

Guide for Lectors and Readers, Second Edition, is an excellent resource for both new and experienced readers. The authors provide liturgical, spiritual, and practical formation while emphasizing the mystery of God who speaks to us and through us in Sacred Scripture. The addition of a chapter on the basics of liturgy and more instruction about the Bible makes this second edition a valuable resource for anyone who serves as a proclaimer of the Word.

Kim Mandelkow, Director | Office for Worship | Archdiocese of Milwaukee

In the new Guide for Lectors and Readers, this team of authors has created a practical, but also deeply theological resource for ministers of God’s Word. Lectors will learn, not only from the fine liturgical theology, but also from hands-on instruction in Scripture and public speaking, prompts for giving and receiving feedback on proclamation, questions for reflection and discussion, and examples of living out one’s ministry in everyday life. Rookie and veteran lectors alike will benefit from this accessible resource.

Jeremy Helms, Director | Office for Divine Worship and Sacraments | Archdiocese of Cincinnati

The second edition of Guide for Lectors and Readers is essential reading for those engaged in the Ministry of the Word. It is sound, inspiring, and encouraging, offering opportunities to grow in faith, knowledge of Scripture, and liturgical theology. The authors’ deep love of the Word, the liturgy, and the people it touches is apparent throughout. The questions for reflection and discussion at the end of each chapter would ideally promote group reflection and study, but even when the book is read by individuals, it provides rich resources and inspiration for readers of God’s Word, and through them, to their listeners.

Sylvia Deck, Ministry of the Word Coordinator | Holy Cross Catholic Church | Santa Cruz, California

• {{supplement.Title}}

{{localize.Product_Detail_No_Supplement_Text}}