"When the Sacred Scriptures are read in the Church, God himself speaks to his people, and Christ, present in his word, proclaims the Gospel. Therefore, the readings from the Word of God are to be listened to reverently by everyone, for they are an element of the greatest importance in the Liturgy." (GIRM no.29)

For the above-mentioned purpose, the Church has developed the role of the Lector/Reader. It is a ministerial role exercised by the laity. Men and women from the age of 16 prepare for this ministry by reflecting on God's words in their lives. Through prayer, contemplation, and preparation, they are able to speak the life-changing words in a pronounced, clear, and loud voice. 

Readers are provided with resources to help them understand what they read and how to read it. Pronunciation, tone, pausing, etc. is clearly shown and described in a book specially designed for and provided to all readers. 

Readers may also announce the intentions for the Universal Prayer, and in the absence of a psalmist, recite the Psalm between the readings.

In the celebration of the Mass with the people, the readings are always read from the ambo.

"In the absence of an instituted lector, other lay people may be deputed to proclaim the readings from Sacred Scripture, people who are truly suited to carrying out this function and carefully prepared, so that by their hearing the readings from the sacred texts the faithful may conceive in their hearts a sweet and living affection for Sacred Scripture." (GIRM, no. 101)

You - through your gift of speech - can make the words of Scripture come alive to the community.