The Lay Readers of Epiphany are a dedicated group of men and women who volunteer to assist in our worship service. They are lay persons licensed by the bishop to lead public worship under the direction of the member of the clergy in charge of the congregation. This ministry is licensed under the provisions of the canon for licensed lay persons. The lay reader must be a confirmed adult communicant in good standing and recommended by the member of the clergy in charge of the congregation. Guidelines for training and licensing of lay readers are established by the bishop. Licensed lay readers may be commissioned for this ministry with a form provided by the Book of Occasional Services. Lay readers have traditionally held an important place in the American church, dating from colonial times when clergy were scarce. There are three orders of lay reader. Worship Leader, reads the lessons and prayers. Eucharistic Minister, reads the lessons and prayers and assists at the Eucharist. Eucharistic Visitor reads the lessons and prayers, assists at the Eucharist, and takes communion to the ill using the reserved Sacrament. |
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