From September 12 to 14, at the St. Peter’s Church Center in the village of Petrodolynske, the first module of a new training course for lay readers of the GELCU congregations took place.
Over the course of two days, the future readers studied the foundations of lay reader ministry, the history of worship, its main elements and their meaning. They learned how to use the church calendar and to pay attention to the components of public ministry. They became acquainted with the elements and symbolism of church space, liturgical vestments, and the set of vessels for Holy Communion.
In addition, the participants explored in greater depth the meaning of prayers and God’s Word in the liturgy, as well as the role of confession and the Creeds.
The seminar concluded on Sunday with the course participants taking part in the worship services in the Odessa and Petrodolynske congregations.
The ministry of a lay reader consists in leading the Liturgy of the Word, without the right to preach or to administer the Sacraments. A sermon for the worship service is prepared by a deacon or pastor, and the reader proclaims it aloud.This ministry helps our Church remain faithful to its calling—to gather regularly around God’s Word and in prayer, even when a pastor or deacon is absent.
The training program for lay readers consists of five modules: liturgy, introduction to the Bible, church history, introduction to theology, Lutheran identity, and spiritual formation. Graduates of the course, with the consent of their pastor and the congregational council, receive authorization for liturgical ministry for a period of three years, which may later be extended.
Currently, about 20 people are enrolled in the course.
The seminar was led by Bishop Pavlo Shvarts and Pastor Oleksandr Gross.
We thank God for this wonderful time together in learning, prayer, and reflection on God’s Word!