Reading

• Use ESV: All readings are to be done from the ESV. Please do not use another translation. If your personal Bible is not ESV, use the lectern Bible or print off a copy of the ESV from esvbible.org.

• Use the Lectern: All Bible reading in the morning service should be done from the lectern (opposite the pulpit).

• Come up promptly: Readers should automatically make their way to the lectern when the liturgist says, “Now be seated for the hearing of God’s word.”

• Read the Old Testament reading first, then the New Testament (note: only the sermon text is printed in full in the bulletin).

• Do not add additional comments to the reading.

  • Don’t say the section headings, like “Jesus Feeds Five Thousand”
  • Don’t point out that it is a short or long reading
  • Avoid commenting on points in the passage

• Try to speak clearly: There are a few people who have difficulty hearing and the sanctuary isn’t acoustically perfect. The more you can help the better.

• Dramatic readings: Don’t feel compelled to be overly dramatic in your reading. A simple reading is fine. Readers may put emphasis in the wrong places and skew the reading. This isn’t to discourage dramatic readings. Feel free to use appropriate emotion, but just be careful that it doesn’t dominate.

• Conclude each reading with: “This is the Word of the Lord!” Wait for the response from the congregation: “Thanks be to God.” Then take your seat.

Microphone/Lecturn

• The microphone only picks up sound that goes directly into it. Please adjust the mic prior to speaking.

• You do not need to turn off the reading light.

Helpful Hints

• Practice reading prior to Sunday, texts are sent out in the CPC Weekly email.

• If you are uncertain about pronunciation, listen to the audio reading by a professional reader on the esvbible.org website prior to Sunday.

• Ask for feedback and be willing to hear constructive criticism.

 

Thank you for serving in this important ministry.  Your participation helps others to see you as a leader at CPC and helps them identify with a “non-staff person” who is playing a key role in the service. (Isaiah 40:8)