Who May Take the Reader's Program?
Any member of the laity may take the Reader's Program. Those who want to qualify formally as Readers need to successfully complete all the courses of the Reader's Program. If you wish to be tonsured as a Reader (male) or blessed as a Reader (female) after completeing your training, we advise you to consult with your Priest and Bishop about your intentions.
When are classes offered?
Students may begin the program at any time. Reader I is offered online as a 26-week course through local mentorship. Students have free access to the course materials on Moodle.
Preparation for the Diaconate
The Reader's Program is a pre-requisite for the Diaconate Program. Those who wish to train for the Diaconate need to take the Readers' Program (or demonstrate proficiency in what is taught in the program) before the completion of the Diaconal Program.
What does the program entail?
Reader I - General Services
The first part introduces the student to the role of the Reader in the Orthodox Church. Lessons help the student to prepare for various parts of the services.
Reader II - Special Services
The second part builds on the principles and skills gained in Reader I, as the role of the Reader is studied in more depth in the context of special services (i.e. weddings, baptisms, funerals, the Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts, etc.). Lessons with instructional materials, sheet music, and audio files are provided to assist the student.