Guideline for Readers and Pray-ers in St Andrew's Services

The way in which the Bible is read and the intercessions led in public worship makes a huge difference to the benefit we all gain from attending church. I am most grateful to all who volunteer for these roles. We always need and encourage new people onto the rotas so please let Jules or one of the clergy know if you would like to help in either role or if you know of those who would like to be asked.

With so many new people joining us at this time of year it is a good time to issue a few guidelines by way of reminder to many of you.

Practicalities

Report to the vestry and be ready to pray with the service leader, preacher and musicians etc 15 minutes before the service begins. Make sure the service leader knows your name so you can be introduced accurately. It is essential the service leaders know you are present.
If you cannot make it at the last minute please find a substitute or let the service leader know.
Check use and height of the microphone – if you are new to it please do sound check with sound desk operator before the service.
If you would like a voice projection ‘tutorial’ from one of the several people at St Andrew’s who know about this then the office will link you up.
Make sure you have an order of service so you know when to come forward.
Readers - Check with preacher that the passage you have is exactly correct.
Pray-ers – check with service leaders there are no last minute requests for prayer.

Guidelines for Readers

Announce the Bible reference and page number clearly.
Give time for the congregation to find the correct place in the pew Bible.
Avoid reading too fast – a common mistake.
Close by saying ‘Here ends the reading from God’s Word’ (NB This is a change from our traditional ‘This is the Word of the Lord …Thanks be to God’. I have noticed that this excludes newcomers who do not know what to say).

Guidelines for leaders of Intercessions

Begin with a sentence or two of praise and thanks.
Try to link in some way to sermon theme.
Choose between 1 and 3 themes (no more please) eg Church, World peace, individuals needing prayer. Please do not feel you have to cover the entire globe and every need.
Use the weekly bulletin prayer points if you wish.
Restrict yourself to no more than 5 minutes maximum.
Speak slowly and clearly – it is very frustrating for people if they cannot hear or understand what is being said.
Do not be afraid to use silence
Feel free to close with the Lord’s Prayer or Grace (not at Holy Communion as the Lord’s Prayer comes later).