St. Agatha Church in Los Angeles will offer a Lector Certification program beginning Sept. 15, taught by Sister of St. Louis Karen Collier, pastoral associate.

This five-week Lector Training Class, sponsored by the archdiocesan Office for Worship, includes the following sessions: liturgy, spirituality of the lector and ministry, Scripture, proclamation techniques and practicum.

There are a few spaces available for the fall training. Contact Sister Collier directly at (323) 935-8127.

The Office for Worship is committed to the training of lectors as emphasized in the "Introduction to the Lectionary for Mass #55": "All liturgical ministers, especially the ministers of the Word, must be properly trained for their ministry. The ministry of the Word requires skill in public readings, knowledge of the principles of liturgy, and an understanding and love of the scriptures."

Archdiocesan Office for Worship staff said the best method of training and formation for lectors in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, is when individual parishes invite a lector presenter to work with their lectors --- both new and experienced --- in their own parish setting. Parishes are then encouraged to open these opportunities for neighboring parishes and others who are interested in this ministry.

The Office for Worship maintains a list of presenters who offer their knowledge and expertise in this ministry, some in English and Spanish. Consult the Office for Worship listing for names and background at http://www.laliturgy.org/formation/presenters.asp, or call (213) 637-7262.