Emphasizing both spiritual and speaking preparation, this book will help experienced and beginning lectors in the ministry of proclaiming the word of God. Wallace offers insight to various understandings of the lector's work (job, ministry, vocation), and reflects on the mystery of God who speaks to—and through—us in the Word. Includes ideas for ongoing technique development, as well as a guide to meeting the needs of the text, listeners, and liturgical setting.

Divided into three parts, this work begins with Part One, The Lector—What’s in a Name? Sections in Part Two, God’s Word Spoken to Us are: "The Word of the Lord," “The Word of God and the Bible,” “The Word of God and the Liturgy,” “The Word of God and the Lectionary,” and “The Word of God and the Lector.” Sections in Part Three, God’s Word Spoken Through Us are “Spiritual Preparation,” “Speaking Preparation” (includes “The Requirements of the Text,” “The Requirements of the Listeners,” “The Requirements of the Setting”), “From Skill to Art: Three Suggestions.” Concludes with a Final Word.

James A. Wallace, CSsR, PhD, is professor of homiletics at Washington Theological Union and co-editor of New Theology Review. His previous works include Preaching Through the Saints, Preaching to the Hungers of the Heart, and The Ministry of Lectors published by Liturgical Press.