Workbook for Lectors, Gospel Readers, and Proclaimers of the Word 2018 Canadian Edition - Ed. Elain Park et al

Workbook for Lectors, Gospel Readers, and Proclaimers of the Word 2018 Canadian Edition
by Elain Park, SSL, STD
Konrad Schaefer, OSB, SSD
Douglas Leal
Liturgy Training Publications
ISBN 9781616713485 

I have been using these workbooks for a few now. I use them to read the readings for the upcoming weekend masses, and other special feats and holy days of obligations. I use them to help me prepare my weekly reflections on the readings for Sunday masses. Historically I have used an app, or website for the mass readings. And I still do so for the weekday mass readings. But there are several features I love about these books, for personal study and for use in preparing my reflections.

I read through the readings once from beginning to end. Usually on Monday or Tuesday. On Wednesday I read them through and I also read the section ‘For Meditation and Context’ on the left side of each page. Then right before I go to write my reflection I make notes, highlight, underline, and read the commentary at the bottom of the pages. Then I tend to reflect upon them and write my reflection on Friday or Saturday typically.

That way buy the time I encounter the readings at mass, I have engaged with them between 2 and 4 times. I also appreciate that at times there is a pronunciation guide on the left sidebar. There is a lot of space for notes, and comments. Sometimes I draw line connecting passages. Because this is a use one year and done book, I tend to mark it up far more than other books I read.

As can be seen by the above description I find these books invaluable for personal study and believe that they are a great tool for any Lectors, Gospel Readers, or Proclaimers of the Word. I have often sat as mass and heard a reader struggle with a pronunciation, especially of biblical names of people or places. Using a book like this to prepare would be an asset.

I write this review as I prepare for the Thirty-Fourth Sunday of ordinary time. The end of the church year. The week after we begin the 2019 church cycle with the First Sunday of Advent, and a new volume.

In summary this book is very reasonably priced. It is excellent for anyone who reads at mass, or for some of us that just want to engage in a deeper way with the readings. For personal study or just to be better prepared for mass each weekend. So pick it up and give this next years edition a try.

Workbook for Lectors, Gospel Readers, and Proclaimers of the Word 2019 Canadian Edition
by Elain Park, SSL, STD
Konrad Schaefer, OSB, SSD
Douglas Leal
Liturgy Training Publications
ISBN 9780889978232