Lay Lector & Reader

What is a lay lector/reader?

A lay reader is a member of the laity (someone not ordained as a priest, minister, or member of the clergy) who is authorized to read scripture or conduct specific parts of a religious service.

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Core Responsibilities

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• Proclaiming Scripture: Reads the First and Second Readings from the Old and New Testaments at Mass or worship services. (The Gospel is reserved for a deacon or priest).

• Leading Prayers: May announce the intentions of the Universal Prayer (Prayers of the Faithful) when a deacon is not present.

• Reciting Psalms: May read or lead the Responsorial Psalm if a cantor or psalmist is absent.

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How to become a lay lector/reader for St. Thomas of Canterbury:

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To become a lay reader in the Reformed Episcopal Church (REC)—a traditional, conservative Anglican body distinct from the main Episcopal Church (TEC)—you will follow a structured process deeply rooted in the church’s historical canons and the Book of Common Prayer.

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Because the REC maintains traditional boundaries between lay ministry and Holy Orders, a lay reader's role involves specific liturgical parameters (such as reading Morning and Evening Prayer, leading the Litany, and reading the Epistle lesson during Holy Communion). Source: Episcopal Missionary Church

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The standard path to becoming a licensed lay reader involves four primary steps:

 

1. Verification of Qualifications

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Before beginning the process, candidates must meet the foundational canonical requirements of the REC:

• Good Standing: You must be a baptized, confirmed, and active adult communicant member of an REC parish.

• Rector's Approval: You must demonstrate spiritual maturity, loyalty to Anglican doctrine, and a reputation for godly living, which is evaluated directly by your parish rector.

 

2. Training and Preparation

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Unlike simple "lectors" who only read the lessons, an REC lay reader is authorized to lead public non-sacramental worship services. Training is supervised by your parish rector or diocesan authority and typically includes: 

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• The Book of Common Prayer: Thorough instruction on navigating and leading the Daily Office (Morning and Evening Prayer). Source:  layreaders.org

• Holy Scripture and Doctrine: Studying the biblical texts, church history, and the Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion.

• Liturgical Practice: Learning vocal projection, how to handle the lectionary, and proper movement within the chancel.  Source:  Lay Reader Training Video

 

3. Nomination and Episcopal Licensure

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Lay readers in traditional Anglican jurisdictions cannot self-appoint; they must be formally authorized by the bishop:

• Clergy Letter: Your rector will submit a formal letter of recommendation to the Bishop of your respective REC Diocese (such as the Diocese of the Mid-Atlantic, Diocese of the Northeast, etc.).

• The Bishop's License: If approved, the Bishop will issue an official Lay Reader’s License. This license is typically granted for a set duration (often 1 to 3 years) and must be actively renewed. Source:  layreaders.org

 

4. Liturgical Admission and Commissioning  ​(Source:  The Admission of Lay Readers

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Once the license is granted, you will be formally admitted to the office during a church service. The REC utilizes a specific liturgical rite known as "The Admission of Lay Readers". During this service: 

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• You will stand at the chancel rail.

• A special lesson from Scripture (typically 2 Timothy 3) will be read. 

• You will make solemn promises before the rector and congregation to perform your duties with reverence, fidelity, and obedience to church authority. 

• The priest will pray over you, bless your ministry, and you will begin serving in vestments (typically a cassock and surplice) according to your parish's custom. 

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