Episcopalians Read a Lot of Scripture!

A Brief Guide to the Lectionaries

A healthy dose of Holy Scripture is part of every Episcopal worship service. Thomas Cranmer, the great Archbishop of Canterbury who oversaw the compiling of the first Book of Common Prayer in 16th century England, believed people weren't hearing enough from the Bible during weekly mass. He stressed the importance of Morning and Evening prayer, calling on all people, and especially priests, to find time several times each day to read the Bible and pray to our loving God.

If you don't have a copy of The Book of Common Prayer, take a look at one in the pews during services, or consider buying yourself a copy in the Book Nook. In the back, you'll see two lectionaries, or schedules of readings: A three-year cycle for Eucharistic services (the readings we use in church) and a two-year cycle, covering almost all of the Bible, called the Daily Office. We've also provided links to on-line resources for both lectionaries.

The Lectionary Page (Eucharistic readings): http://www.io.com/~kellywp/lectionary.html -- be sure to select the Revised Common Lectionary.

The On-Line Daily Office: http://www.missionstclare.com/

The on-line Daily Office includes readings, prayers, music -- everything needed for personal worship except the worshiper's loving, open, contrite heart. Some people bookmark this page at home and work and use it every day.