lay reader
Noun: 1. A layperson authorized to read parts of a church service: In the Anglican or Episcopal Church, a lay reader is a member of the congregation who is not ordained as clergy but is officially licensed by a bishop to lead certain prayers, read scripture lessons, and sometimes deliver sermons during services.
The term is used specifically within the context of Christian (particularly Anglican/Episcopal) church governance and liturgy. It denotes a formal, authorized role for a non-ordained person.
- The lay reader stood at the lectern to read the First Lesson from the Old Testament.
- After years of service as a lay reader, she decided to pursue ordination as a deacon.
- The vicar was ill, so the lay reader conducted the morning prayer service.
- The role can be described with verbs like , , or a lay reader.
- He has served as a lay reader in this parish for a decade.
- Lector: In some other Christian traditions (e.g., Roman Catholic, Lutheran), a similar role is often called a "lector."
- Lay minister: A broader term that can include lay readers, as well as others who perform non-ordained ministries.
- Layperson / Laity: General terms for members of a religious community who are not part of the clergy.
- Lector
- Reader (in this specific ecclesiastical context)
The term is compound, formed from "lay" (non-clergy) + "reader" (one who reads). Its meaning is highly specific to its religious context and should not be confused with the general phrase "a lay reader," which could informally mean any non-specialist reading a text. Here, "Lay Reader" functions as a single, official title.
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a layman who is authorized by the bishop to read parts of the service in an Anglican or Episcopal church
