Lectors are trained and commissioned to proclaim the Word of God at liturgies.  The scripture readings help us to reestablish our commitment to God's Word living in us.  For centuries, Christians have heard these same readings and have derived comfort and challenge from them, much as we do now,  The lector is the story teller of the community and helps us with his or her prayerful interpretation to hear scripture in a way not possible just by reading.  This is a task requiring a special gift and great preparation.  The lector must become thoroughly familiar with the readings in order to determine their context, environment, pace, and tone.  The regular practice of prayer and meditation on the scriptures helps the lector meet the challenge of bringing to the reading a combination of intelligent preparation, unique personality, and skill