Lectors are responsible for reading the first and second lessons in our service of worship and leading the congregation in responsively reading the psalm.  More importantly, the lector proclaims the word of God to the gathered people.

A "lectionary" is a list of scripture readings assigned to be read on a particular day. This tradition of a lectionary has roots in Jewish worship of long ago and was continued by the early Christians.  Not all Christians use the same lectionary, but many Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Presbyterian, Methodist and other Christian churches around the world use the Revised Common Lectionary, a three-year cycle laid out to guide ELCA congregations and other Christian denominations in the use of designated Old and New Testament lessons for weekly worship and daily devotions.

Each year the Gospel of Matthew, Mark, or Luke is read primarily with the Gospel of John interspersed throughout all three years. Consequently, if a person worshipped every Sunday for three years, he or she would be able to hear the majority of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

It is through the reading of the Scripture that God continues to speak. Bethel has been blessed with many people, both young and old, new and long-time attendees, who are faithful and dedicated readers of the word of God.

A sign-up sheet is located on the bulletin board in the hallway leading to the sunroom.  Lectors are needed for not only Sunday services but for special services such as Advent, Lent, and Holy Week.  In the fall and late spring there are training sessions for worship servers in which we gather to discuss areas of concern and changes that will help us better serve.   Guidelines for reading and a pronunciation sheet are also located on the bulletin board.

For those who are new to reading but feel they might want to try this, the best teacher is observing what other lectors do - how they approach the lectern, how they read, how they emphasize certain words, how they communicate God's word to the congregation.   I am available at any time to train, encourage, and help any who are interested in learning to lector.

Help me to proclaim, not just with my lips,
but with my whole heart and soul. May your Spirit live in me and
fill the holy word that I proclaim.