We read, we pray, and we share the Word of God. It is also proclaimed.
At Holy Eucharist and the other Sacraments, sacred books are proscribed for our use. “The Lectionary” and “The Rites” and “The Roman Missal” enrich worship with appropriate texts from Sacred Scripture. Readings, psalms, canticles, antiphons, prayers, and intercessions are presented for Sundays, feast days, saints’ days, sacraments, funerals, other occasions, for various needs, and so on. These come with instructions known as rubrics for the red colour in which they are printed, and options, all to assist in the preparation and celebration of liturgy. They are especially important for the proclamation of the Word of God.
For those chosen to proclaim the Word of God there is much to do. It is best not to accept the task unless one loves the Word of God.
To be convincing proclaimers must have prayed and practiced. For this they might seek the help of other proclaimers to listen and give feedback. Proclaimers join with the team of presiders, musicians, and other ministers, in touch together in preparing for each occasion. From time to time they should enrol together for liturgy seminars. In larger congregations, proclaimers should have the best of sound equipment helping them proclaim the Word. Every church should have one or two techs in charge of the audio settings, and available for proclaimers at practice time.
As well as the spiritual, there is also a physical side to the proclamation of the Word of God. One of my language coaches told me that the proclaimer’s effort must be felt to rise from the ground up, run through the body into the warmth of the heart and the air of the lungs, up into the mind, and out of an open mouth, with eyes on the people in the pews. They in turn need to be looking up at proclaimers who retain their attention.
The Word of God goes forth from the proclaimer to the ears of all who have gathered, so that they can take it to heart, and that all can plan for action under the grace of God. My coach showed me how to pause, and to repeat if useful, especially when background noise intrudes; not get flustered or give offense, but to remain in control. The Spirit helps one to master all manner of moments.
St Paul advised in his letter to the Romans: “But how can they call to him for help if they have not believed? And how can they believe if they have not heard the message? And how can they hear if the message is not proclaimed? And how can the message be proclaimed if the messengers are not sent out? As the scripture says, ‘How wonderful is the coming of messengers who bring good news!’”
