The Social Communications Commission of Ijio Deanery, Catholic Diocese of Oyo, organized a Training and Workshop for Lay Readers and Announcers at Holy Family Catholic Church, Iwere-Ile, February 21, 2025, with the goal of improving effective communication in liturgy.

The program began with an opening prayer led by Mr. Mojoro Peter from St. Michael Catholic Church, Okeho. This was followed by individual introductions and a welcome address by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Joseph Ogundipe.

Fr. Ogundipe warmly welcomed all participants and emphasized the importance of the workshop. He encouraged attendees to learn, take notes, and apply the lessons in their ministry. He recalled the words of Bishop Emeritus of Oyo , Most Rev. Julius Babatunde Adelakun, who taught that the Catholic Church has two altars: The Altar of the Holy Eucharist and The Altar of the Word.

He stressed that while not everyone has access to the Eucharist, everyone can hear the Word of God. Therefore, lay readers must practice the Word before proclaiming it to the congregation. He concluded with a powerful charge: “Go into the world and proclaim the Gospel.”

The main lecture, titled “Effective Communication in Liturgy: The Role of Lay Readers, Lectors, Announcers, and Commentators in the Catholic Church”, was delivered by Rev. Fr. Sylvester Ikechukwu Ekuma.

Fr. Ekuma emphasized that lay readers, lectors, announcers, and commentators play a crucial role in the proclamation of the Word and facilitation of the Mass. He defined the different roles and highlighted the importance of clear articulation, faith, preparation, and body language in effective communication.

He also noted that communication is more than just speaking; it involves: A sender (the reader/announcer), A message (the Word of God), A channel (the medium of communication), A receiver (the congregation), Feedback (the response of the listeners).

Fr. Ekuma urged all participants to see themselves as second proclaimers of the Word, with Jesus Christ as the first proclaimer. He referenced Psalm 119:130, stating that “The explanation of Your Word gives life to the simple.”

Best Practices for Lay Readers and Announcers: Participants were taught vocal techniques, microphone handling, and appropriate dress codes for those reading or making announcements at Mass. Fr. Ekuma reminded everyone that the Church is a sacred place, and all lay ministers should dress appropriately and conduct themselves with reverence.

The seminar also featured contributions from Rev. Fr. Francis Eyinade, Rev. Fr. Phillip Onifade, Rev. Fr. Joseph Ogundipe, and Mr. Obaniyi Paul, who all emphasized the importance of faith, preparation, and humility in the ministry of lay readers and announcers. A Question-and-Answer session followed, where Fr. Ekuma provided insightful responses to concerns raised by participants.

The Communications Director, Rev. Fr. John Irekiigbe, gave the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to His Lordship, Most Rev. Emmanuel Badejo, the Dean of Ijio Catholic Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Jude Martin Awua, and all priests present. He also appreciated the dedication of all participants.

The event concluded with a closing prayer led by Mrs. Stella Jolasun and the final blessing by Rev. Fr. Gabriel Agboola.

This workshop reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to enhancing the quality of liturgical proclamation and ensuring that the Word of God is communicated effectively to the faithful.