Lector/Intercessor
Adult lectors and intercessors are needed at all Sunday services to read the lessons, lead the Psalm, and lead Prayers of the People. Needed for this ministry are people with a strong, clear voice, and a love for reading Bible passages and prayers. Lectors and intercessors are generally called upon to read approximately every six to eight weeks. The readings are sent to you the week before for previewing and practice.
If you are interested in joining this ministry please contact Susan Fleming.
Speaking Tips:
Most public speakers make mistakes in three areas:
- Speaking to fast,
- speaking in a monotone with no inflection,
- and not preparing properly.
Now if you are concentrating on your stage fright, you can not concentrate very well on what you are going to say in church. So the answer is not to concentrate on yourself, but something else when you are supposed to read. On your way to church, enjoy the flowers in bloom, enjoy a quick look at a cloud and relax the Holy Spirit will be with you.
We will soon change how we process in before the liturgy. Be ready to be part of the entry procession. As you approach the ambo/lectern/pulpit, make sure the microphone is set properly. It is better to take a second to do this than have the congregation not hear you because the microphone was not adjusted. Even if you are soft-spoken, the microphone will project for you if you use it correctly. Note this suggestion, visualize that you have a straw in your mouth, and it is 9 to 12 inches long. Have it stick out in direct line with the microphone.
Remember to speak slowly. This is the first time many if not most will have heard what you are reading. It may seem you are dragging, but in reality, it allows others to process what you are saying. When you smile at the congregation, focus on someone in the last row. Give your introductory statement and, at the end, pause for three seconds before saying, "The Word of the Lord" or "Here ends the reading."
Your main breathing is from your diaphragm. It is a hidden muscle beneath the bottom of the rib cage. Use this muscle and let your voice project from there, not from your throat.
Note - Would you like to hear your voice at home or wherever you choose in private? Use the oldest trick in the book. Cup your hands gently behind your ears and pull the ears slightly forward. Hold them there while you speak. You can hear yourself! It's a surprise!
You should receive your readings one week in advance. If you are curious what readings will be used on a particular day, please refer to your Book of Common Prayer. Every Sunday of the year is outlined with all the specific readings.
When all is said and done, remember God loves you for assisting at his service. Let your voice smile and be happy with the words that are in your mind, on your lips, and in your heart.