Regulations for the Ministers of The Word

Authorization

Although the Ministers of the Word are commissioned by the Bishop to proclaim the Word to the faithful, the permission is granted only for the parish in which the minister is registered and active. The permission of the pastor or priest to whom the celebration of the liturgy is entrusted and must be obtained before the minister is commissioned. This commission is granted for general or specific occasions and endures for three years.

Requirements

1. Membership in parish one year (at pastor’s discretion but encouraged from point of view of fidelity to the community one wishes to serve.)
2. Men or women who are, acknowledged by peers and pastor to be an active Catholic in good standing with the Roman Catholic Church.
3. Sacramental reception; Must have received the sacraments of Baptism, Holy Communion and Confirmation in the Roman Catholic Church.
4. All the faithful, especially those who will serve as lectors should be properly trained on the following:
   • Understanding the Liturgy and use of the liturgical principles from Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy and The General Instruction of the Roman Missal
   • Theology of the Word
   • Theology of Ministry
   • Practical training of Proclamation and opportunity for practice and critique
5. Safe Environment training every 2 years.
6. Six hours of ongoing formation per year.
7. “Hands-on” training including the importance of fulfilling commitment as scheduled, procedures for approaching the ambo and the dress code put forth by the parish.

Special Instructions

Ministers of the Word should cultivate a personal prayer life that includes devotion to the Word, daily prayer and retreat time to deepen their relationship with God. In his/her ministry he/she should make efforts to instill reverence and respect for the Word and give particular care in handling the Lectionary.