Lay Readers, Their History, Organization And Work

PREFACE. THIS book is the result of a suggestion made to the writer by his Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Williain Ford Nichols, D.D. Its object is to further the great movement in the Church for the use of the laity in definite, aggressive work for the extension of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, with especial reference to Lay Readers. It is hoped that it will be found useful by those who are already licensed to act in that capacity, encouraging them to more systematic, earnest effort, and stimulating their desire for a larger and a better service. To devout laymen into whose hands it may fall, the writers prayerful wish is, that, with the blessing of God the Holy Ghost, it may arouse in their hearts some sense of the work there is to be done, and that it may suggest to them one way in which they may have their part and lot in the doing of it. It is thought also that it will be of use to the clergy, who see around them in town and country the work which belongs to the Church, but which they cannot hope even to touch, without the aid of consecrated, systematic lay effort. It is intended to suggest to them ways in which Lay Readers can do definite, aggressive missionary work. Bishops, Priests, and Lay Readers, who are most interested in this subject, have been consulted, and the writer Ilirnself has had experience. It is hoped, therefore, that from the facts and suggestions set forth others may be saved some of the trouble and annoyance of experiment, and profit by the failures and successes here recorded. Many have judged the book as timely. There is a growing opinion among Bishops, Priests, and laymen that by an enlarged use of Readers and Evangelists a new era, which seems already dawning, will rise in brightness upon the Church in this land..........