The Prophets

Proclaim The Word: A Series Of Talks For Readers/Lectors

On the evening of 3rd December 2025 Fr Adrian Graffy gave the third of a series of talks, entitled ‘Proclaim the Word’, designed with Readers particularly in mind, but also useful for those wanting to deepen their knowledge of the holy Scriptures. Having presented the books of the Prophets in their chronological sequence, Father Adrian then selected four texts from the lectionary from four different prophets (Amos, Hosea, Zechariah and Jonah) for a more attentive study.  What kind of texts are they? Judgemental or encouraging? What are the particular features of each text? Are they set down as poetry, or simple prose? Why were they chosen for the liturgy? How do they match up with the Gospel reading when proclaimed on a Sunday? The talk raised many issues, to help Readers to be more aware of the beauty and depth of the scriptural readings, and therefore to proclaim them in a more convincing and intelligible way.

Professor Federico Giuntoli (Pontifical Biblical Institute) writes:

In this illuminating session, Fr Adrian explores the profound changes brought by Vatican II to our experience of Scripture at Mass, offering clear and insightful explanations of the structure of the liturgical year, the design of the lectionary, and the thoughtful selection of readings that nourish the faithful Sunday after Sunday.

Whether you are a Reader seeking to deepen your understanding, or anyone who desires to appreciate more fully how the Word of God shapes our liturgical life, this talk is an invaluable resource.

Discover how the richness of Scripture unfolds across the liturgical seasons, and how even the silences between readings can speak to the heart.

 Take this opportunity to deepen your engagement with the Word of God and to appreciate the beauty and wisdom of the Church’s liturgy.