Handling the Word of God

During the institution of lector, the bishop says the following words to the lector candidate, "Take this book of Holy Scripture and be faithful in handing on the word of God, so that it may grow strong in the hearts of his people." This statement is what defines the ministry of Lector. The lector is to become a vehicle of the Word in order for the people to fall in love with the word of God. The role of the lector is to read, pray, and live out the what they are proclaiming. It is only in this manner that they can become effective tools to hand down the word of God.
            One of the highlights of the Ministry of Lector mass was at the very beginning of the mass during the procession. This is my fourth year at St John's Seminary and I have always sat in the pews seeing other seminarians receive this ministry. It struck me that it was now my turn. My family is sitting in the pews for me, my friends are sitting in the pews for me, the bishop is here to institute me. I felt unworthy, but at the same time grateful that the Church is giving me this responsibility. As I processed into my seat, I felt a lump in my throat and my eyes teared up. I looked at the crucifix at the front of the chapel and thanked God for this experience, I thanked his for this next step in my formation, I thanked God for giving me the opportunity to discern my vocation at the seminary, and I thanked God for everyone that was there present. It was a realization that I am no longer a new seminarian, but that within a year will be sent out on internship and before I know it, God willing, it will be my turn to receive holy orders.
            I feel blessed in receiving the ministry of Lector. Before I entered the seminary, I was a lector at my home parish, St Pius X in Santa Fe Springs. It was through this ministry that I was able to pray with Scripture and help in my discernment. What I enjoy about being a lector is that it is both prayerful and technical. I need to pray with Scripture because without prayer Scripture can turn only into words. Prayer is what makes the text alive and helps us to better understand how century old texts can shape our lives today. It is also technical because being a lector uses the tools of public speaking. I need to be able to have a clear voice, make eye contact, stand up straight, and speak with the right tone because this is how lectors become the tools of God. Each Sunday God is sharing his words with us and it is through the lector's mouth that we hear His voice.
             Being instituted as lector is another way that God is telling me I am on the right track in my discernment and vocation. I have not done this by myself. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles Vocations Office, Fr. Sam and Fr. Mike, have supported me in my formation and I am grateful. St. John's Seminary has also given me to opportunity to grow in my relationship with Christ and to strive to be the best Christian I can be. Please continue to pray for me and for all vocations as my class journeys together in our vocation.