Readers

Readers assist in the liturgy by proclaiming the Word of the Lord in the readings at Holy Mass. Readers sign up to read for particular Masses using the SignUpGenius at the link below. 

Prior to beginning this liturgical ministry, readers must be approved by the pastor and attend a Workshop presented by the Office of Worship.

For additional information, please contact the Parish Office, 504-488-2659, or by email: office@olr-nola.org.

Serving at the altar of the Lord and in the sanctuary during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is a privilege and a sacred duty. It is important for all liturgical ministers to keep in mind our duty to help the members of the congregation keep their focus on the prayers and actions of the liturgy and not on us, who are serving as ministers. For this reason, ministers should dress reverently and with decorum. Clothing that is too casual or too flamboyant may distract the congregation from the liturgical prayers and actions. Clothing that is immodest may cause scandal among God’s holy people. 

• For men, appropriate attire includes a collared shirt and dress slacks. A suit or a sports coat and/or a necktie, while most appropriate and encouraged, is not required. Jeans, shorts, unbuttoned shirts, sports jerseys, sneakers and other such casual dress are inappropriate and do not meet the standards for assisting at the Eucharist. 

• For women, appropriate attire includes dresses, dress slacks, skirts and blouses or sweaters. Dresses and skirts should be modest in length (i.e. to the knee). A modest neckline is recommended for dresses, sweaters and blouses. Short skirts or dresses, revealing blouses (such as low cut, sleeveless or see-through), or shorts of any length do not meet the standards for assisting at the Eucharist.

• Clothing for both men and women should fit comfortably and not be formfitting or tight. The new fad of wearing stretch pants or yoga pants as an outer garment is not appropriate for a liturgical minister. 

• For daily liturgies, the minister’s dress may be somewhat more casual, but should still adhere to the general principles described above. However, jeans and shorts should never be considered appropriate dress. 

• Please be advised that the priest and/or Deacon reserve(s) the right to request any liturgical minister not to serve who, in his prudent judgment, does not meet the requirements of this Dress Code.

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church: “The Mass is at the same time, and inseparably, the sacrificial memorial in which the sacrifice of the cross is perpetuated and the sacred banquet of communion with the Lord’s body and blood.” (CCC 1382). Moreover, the Catechism recognizes the need for outward signs of our inward reverence for what is happening at Holy Mass. “Bodily demeanor (gestures, clothing, attitudes) ought to convey the respect, solemnity, and joy of this moment when Christ becomes our guest” (CCC 1387). We hope that this Dress Code will assist our parish family in fostering a deeper respect and reverence at Mass. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Fr. Jonathan directly. May God continue to bless all of us as we strive to serve worthily at the Altar of the Lord.