Lay Led Liturgy

The Lay Led Liturgy is composed of five sections; the Gathering Rite, the Introductory Rites, the Liturgy of the Word, the Rite of Distribution of Communion, and the Concluding Rites. Nothing that is proper only to the Mass, particularly the presentation of the gifts, and the Eucharistic Prayer is inserted into the celebration. The texts for the prayers and readings are taken from the Roman Missal, the Sacramentary, and the Lectionary for Mass. The lay person who leads the assembly acts as one among equals and does not use words proper only to ordained ministers such as priests or deacons. He or she does not use the 'presidential chair', but a chair positioned outside the sanctuary. Since only a priest or deacon may give a homily, a lay person may only read a Reflection on the Readings prepared previously by the priest. Since the altar is the table of sacrifice, its only use during a lay led liturgy is when the Blessed Sacrament is placed on it prior to distribution to the faithful.

1. Gathering Rite - Gathering Hymn and Announcements

2. Introductory Rites - Opening Hymn, Sign of the Cross, Greeting, Introductory Remarks, Opening Rite [choose one of: Sprinkling of Holy Water during Easter, Confiteor, Sung Kyrie, Litany of Praise, Gloria (never during Advent or Lent)]

3. Liturgy of the Word - Procession of the Word, First Reading, Responsorial Psalm, Second Reading, Gospel Acclamation, Gospel Reading, Reflection on the Readings, Profession of Faith, Prayers of the Faithful, Proclamation of Praise, Sign of Peace

4. Rite of Distribution of Communion - Bringing the previously consecrated Blessed Sacrament to the Altar, The Lord's Prayer followed wihout pause by the Concluding Doxology, Distribution of Communion, Reposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Silent Individual Prayer, Prayer After Communion

5. Concluding Rites - Announcements, Collection, Blessing, Dismissal, Departure Hymn