While working to facilitate the beautiful liturgy of the Easter Vigil, Bishop Peter encouraged us to have lectors approach the altar without reverencing the altar/tabernacle. This worked so well in easing the flow of movement in the Vigil's rich ritual that we have decided to implement this change in our daily and weekly celebrations of Mass.
To maintain a sense of reverence in how lectors approach the ambo, Father Mario has asked that lectors:
- Sit on the left-hand side (from the perspective of facing the altar) of the church adjacent to the ambo so that you do not need to cross in front of the sanctuary as you approach the altar. This is not new, but what is new is that we would like you to sit in the section closest to the ramp.
- Approach the ambo using the ramp. (This is new!)
- Walk respectfully and steadily so that there is minimal silent time, which can detract from the message being proclaimed through God's holy Word.
- If you are attending Mass with a Eucharistic Minister, we ask that you sit on the left, to accommodate the flow of the lector's approach to the altar. (This is a change from the past.)
Thank you for your attention to these details. We truly appreciate all you do in service to God and our community.
Wishing you all the blessings of the Easter Season,
Patrice