Ministries in St George's
Ministers of the Word
The first half of the Mass focusses on the Word of God. Ministers of the Word assist at Mass by reading the scripture out loud to the congregation, allowing them to listen to the scripture and ponder it. W hat is the Liturgy of the Word?
'The Liturgy of the Word consists of the readings from Sacred Scripture and the chants between the readings (Psalm and Gospel acclamation) form the main part of the Liturgy of the Word. The homily, Profession of Faith, and Prayer of the Faithful (general intercessions) expand and complete this part of the Mass.
In the readings God speaks with his people, opening up to them the mystery of redemption and salvation, and nourishing their spirit; Christ himself is present in the midst of the faithful through his word. By their silent listening and pondering, and by their singing and acclamation, the people make God’s word their own and begin to respond to it in their hearts.
The homily is an integral part of the liturgy to assist the assembly to hear the voice of the Lord in his word. Finally, having been nourished by this word, the assembly affirms its acceptance of it by the profession of faith and makes petition in the Prayer of the Faithful (general intercessions), praying for the needs of the entire Church and for the salvation of the whole world.' ( Taken from Ministers of the Word, guidelines prepared by the Liturgy office of England and Wales)
At St. George’s we have a team of 20 readers who minister throughout the week and at weekend Masses. We give thanks to all of them for giving their time and commitment to the ministry. Fr Chris would like to expand the number of readers who are available to read at Mass, so we can have variation of readers in the liturgy and to ease the commitment on those who read already. If you feel called to this ministry, please speak to Frs. Chris, Lister or Deacon Keith.