Speaking On Gods Behalf

About the book:
From the author of the popular God who Loved Stories comes a new exploration of the nature and mission of the Ministry of the Word, which can change the hearts and lives of congregations who hear it.
Speaking on God’s Behalf is a celebration of the Ministry of Reader – the oldest of the Church’s lay ministries – and explains why the contribution of readers is so important to the Church today. The book examines the origin of the texts readers handle, showing how and why they were written. It provides vital background information that every reader needs to know on the history and geography of the Bible, facts that will shed light on the passages they read.
It also demonstrates how to interpret a text by dissecting and analysing it, to look for its literal and spiritual meaning, and to develop sensitivity to its mood and tone, its rhythm and pace. Useful tips on how to get the meaning across in a way that listeners will respond to, and that will increase self-confidence and poise in the delivery are also included.
Well-trained readers are an invaluable asset to the liturgy. So whether you are an experienced lector or a new recruit, Speaking on God’s Behalf is guaranteed to change you from a good reader into a great one.

About the Author:
Father Oliver Treanor is a graduate in Literature from Queen’s University Belfast and has a Doctorate in Theology from the Gregorian University in Rome. He was a lecturer in Dogmatic Theology in the Pontifical University Maynooth until his recent retirement and has published several academic books and articles.

He is a skilled communicator with wide experience in public speaking at home and abroad and has a background in sound broadcasting from his years as producer and presenter at Vatican Radio. His last book, Maelstrom of Love, on the Eucharist, was published by Veritas in 2014.