"Rolling up the scroll, he handed it back to the attendant and sat down, and the eyes of all in the synagogue looked intently at him. He said to them, 'Today this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.'" (Lk. 4:20-22)

From the beginning, the Church has valued the written account of Jesus' life and words with special care and respect. The reading of the Gospel was surrounded with special honor. Distinction was shown in Book covers -- utilizing silver, gold, purple foils and ivory. While the other readings could be done by a lector, the proclamation of the Holy Gospel was reserved to at least a deacon.

In the Roman rite the proclaimer of the Gospel was led to the AMBO (pulpit) in a kind of small procession carrying candles and incense... all to point out the great reverence reserved for the proclamation.

Before the actual reading, there is a short responsory ritual where the deacon, priest or bishop invokes the blessing: The Lord be with you. And the people in turn also invoke the blessing of Almighty God upon the reader: And also with you.

A reading from the Holy Gospel according to _______. And the people respond with: Glory to you, O Lord.

When the Gospel reading has ended, the reader calls the Gospel reading to closure saying: The Gospel of the Lord. And the people respond with the ancient reaffirmation of their conviction that Christ is truly present in the Gospel: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

In the other readings the faithful remain seated, whereas in the Gospel (for special emphasis) we stand out of our great respect and reverence.

In the reading of the Gospel, as in the other parts of the Liturgy, preparation and attentive listening is the key to meaningful participation. The ritual is not meant to bore, it is meant to offer form to our celebration. Our task is to not let the form impede the listening.

Psalm 41:13 "You have supported me and let me stand in your presence forever.