Ministers of the Word
Church of St. Thérèse of Carmel

GUIDANCE FOR MINISTERS OF THE WORD

  • Minister of the Word (MOW) Attire:  Men should wear a coat and tie; Women should wear an appropriate dress or pantsuit.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before start of mass to allow time for a substitute to be selected for no-shows.
  • Check or cross off your name on the MOW schedule posted on the bulletin board in the ministers’ vestry.  If you are substituting for someone, make an appropriate pen & ink change on the posted schedule.
  • Wear a lector cross.  Loaner crosses are available in the ministers’ vestry.  If you use a loaner cross, please return it after mass.
  • MOW #1 (the 1st one listed on the schedule) reads the 1st reading.
  • MOW #2 (the 2nd one listed on the schedule) reads the 2nd reading and the intercessions during the Prayer of the Faithful.  Check intercessions before mass to become familiar with names of the sick and/or deceased.
  • Each MOW should be prepared to read both readings and the intercessions in case the partner MOW fails to show. 
  • Join the Presider, Deacon and other lay ministers for prayer approximately 5 minutes before start of mass.
  • Join in the procession and recession, MOWs should position themselves at the far left and right of the ministry line when reverencing the altar.
  • When approaching and departing the ambo, pause for a moment and reverence the altar with a simple bow.
  • After the 2nd reading, MOW #2 places the Lectionary on the lower shelf as it will not be used by the deacon for the Gospel reading.
  • At the words in the creed, “He will come again in glory…” MOW #2 should proceed to the ambo.  If the celebrant is praying a lengthy prelude to the Prayer of the Faithful, face him until he’s done.  After reading the intercessions, face the celebrant for his closing prayer.
  • MOWs are responsible for arranging for substitutes, preferably by sending an email to all lectors.  Those who reply should “reply to all.” 
  • MOW qualification consists of completing Diocesan lector training, or equivalent, followed by a short orientation within our parish.  All are encouraged to participate in refresher training, retreats, etc.