Use of lay [Bible] readers [in the Mass]: What a controversial subject in our circle! And more so, that you give a "defense" for it!! I prefer to read myself [at a minimum the Gospel, I insist], but when lay 'leaders' [esteemed so by the congregation as an elder, deacon, etc., is equipped, prepares, and understands what "he" is reading [context, historical background, culture, etc.] and in conscious of the gravity of the role he plays, in bringing the Logos into the ears, mind, and heart of the listener, and is leading the congregation to attend to the Word of the Lord [and not to self; and with no pre-cursory comments], I too approve [male] lay readers. [😬]
Use of lay [Bible] readers [in the Mass]: What a controversial subject in our circle! And more so, that you give a "defense" for it!! I prefer to read myself [at a minimum the Gospel, I insist], but when lay 'leaders' [esteemed so by the congregation as an elder, deacon, etc., is equipped, prepares, and understands what "he" is reading [context, historical background, culture, etc.] and in conscious of the gravity of the role he plays, in bringing the Logos into the ears, mind, and heart of the listener, and is leading the congregation to attend to the Word of the Lord [and not to self; and with no pre-cursory comments], I too approve [male] lay readers. [😬]
I heartily agree, Pastor! Reading the Bible in church is not a job to be taken lightly at all.