Commissiong and Renewal to Service of the Lector Ministry: A Moment of Service and Commitment

Last weekend, our parish celebrated the commissioning of two new members of the Lector Ministry, and the renewal of commitment to service of the already serving lectors, a meaningful yet simple ceremony that reminds us of the sacred responsibility of proclaiming God's Word

New lectors Commissiong during Mass

Right after the homily, the priest invited the new lectors to come forward. Standing before the congregation, they were presented as ministers entrusted with the important role of reading the Word of God during our liturgical celebrations.

In his prayer, the priest asked God to bless the new lectors and guide them as they serve the Church. He prayed that they may proclaim the Scriptures clearly, faithfully, and with reverence, so that the Word of God may truly come alive in the hearts of the faithful. The commissioning ceremony celebrates their readiness to take on this role, supported by the prayers and encouragement of the church community.

Right after the commissioning of the new lectors, they were joined by the lectors that are already serving, in front of the altar to renew their commitment to serve in the ministry. Renewing their commitment is a chance to reflect on their ministry and helps lectors stay connected to their mission and reminds them of the spiritual significance of their work. It highlights that their ministry is ongoing and essential to the life of the church. By recommitting, lectors strengthen their bond with one another and with the congregation they serve.

Finally, the blessing given by the priest is a key part of the ceremony. It invokes God’s guidance and protection over the lectors as they carry out their ministry. This blessing not only empowers the lectors but also reminds the whole congregation of the sacred nature of the Word being proclaimed.

This simple ceremony, though brief, carries deep meaning. It strengthens the ministry of the lectors and enriches the worship experience for the entire congregation.

Stories of Faith from our Lectors

The Word of God has saved my life, and serving as a lector lets me share that gift with others. Each week as I prepare to proclaim the readings, I’m reminded to glorify God through my prayers and work. To anyone discerning this ministry, if you feel the Lord stirring your heart, don’t hesitate—you’ve already heard His call, so come and serve. - Mark Chua

I was drawn to the Lector Ministry when I realized that proclaiming the Word is more than reading aloud—it is becoming the hands, feet, and voice of Jesus on earth. Standing close to the Altar, I saw this ministry as a precious opportunity to serve God in a way that felt deeply intimate and sacred. Through this calling, my faith has been renewed. Meditating on the readings has given me a new life centered on being Christ to those around me. One defining moment came while reflecting on the Letter of St. James, which revealed the hypocrisy in my heart as I judged people based on outward appearances. That realization humbled me, teaching me to seek God’s mercy and to strive to see others through His eyes.

To anyone considering joining the Lector Ministry, I would say this: it is a rare and beautiful gift to let God speak through you to the community. This ministry not only draws you closer to His Word but also challenges you to live out the Gospel in your daily actions—so that what you proclaim at the lectern becomes the life you embody beyond it. - Sabin

Serving as a lector has been my way of giving my time to the Lord in gratitude for the many blessings I have received. This ministry has inspired me to study the readings and the Bible more deeply, drawing me closer to His Word. I have also come to realize that a lector’s responsibility goes far beyond merely reading at the ambo—it is about letting God speak through you and living out what you proclaim. - Chiara

Call to Action

If you feel called to serve in the Lector Ministry or would like to learn more about this role, we invite you to reach out to the parish office or speak with one of our ministry leaders. Your voice can help bring God's Word to life in our community.