Updated guidance for Readers
Thanks to everyone who attended this morning’s meeting. Following it, here is a quick summary of best practice for reading at Mass. Please take a quick look before your next scheduled reading! I have also attached the Readers guidance PDF and a summary sheet for those who may not have seen them.
⚖️ DIVISION OF DUTIES
1st Reader: Reads the First Reading AND the Psalm.
2nd Reader: Reads the Second Reading AND the Bidding Prayers.
🚨 Can't make it? If you are unable to read, please let Leanne and your co-reader know in the WhatsApp group ASAP. The other reader will cover ALL readings for that Mass.
🚶♂️ MASS PROCEDURE
Coming Up: Both readers walk to the front together after the Collect (Opening Prayer) finishes.
Reaching the Sanctuary: Bow to the Altar together.
⛪ At St Joseph’s: Always use THE RAMP to go up to the ambo; do not cut across the front of the altar.
During the Readings: While the 1st Reader is at the ambo, the 2nd Reader sits on a chair near the altar servers. You then switch places for the 2nd reading.
Leaving: When both readings are done, come down from the ambo during the final Alleluia (via the ramp at St Joseph's). Bow to the Altar together and return to your seats. (Note: No need to bow/genuflect to the priest).
🎙️ READING THE BIDDING PRAYERS
The 2nd Reader goes up ALONE.
⏱️ The 5-Second Rule: Count to 5 slowly in your head between reading the prayer intention and starting the response ("Lord, in your mercy"). This gives the congregation time to pray.
Leaving: Stay at the lectern until the priest finishes the final prayers (including the Hail Mary), then walk down (via the ramp), bow to the Altar, and sit down.
✅ QUICK DOS & DON'TS
✔️ DO:
Prepare and practice aloud at home before coming to church.
Check the lectionary is open to the right page before Mass starts.
See if the Psalm/Gospel Acclamation is being sung or if you need to recite it.
Adjust the microphone position so you can be heard clearly.
Take a breath and leave a distinct pause before the introduction, before the reading itself, and right before saying "The Word of the Lord".
Read slowly and clearly, paying close attention to full stops, commas, and crisp consonants (like 'd's and 't's).
❌ DON'T:
Do not clear your throat directly into the microphone.
Do not say "The first/second reading is a reading from..." or "The responsorial psalm, the response is..."—just start directly with the text. Look up when you get to the response so the congregation know when to join in.
Do not read out the italicised theme or Bible verse numbers.
Do not read in a flat, monotone voice, and don't let your voice trail off or drop at the end of sentences.
Avoid being overly dramatic (histrionics).
💡 Consider asking a fellow reader to be a "Positively Critical Friend" to give you helpful feedback on your delivery from time to time if you request it!
Thank you for all you do in the parish.
Leanne
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