The Gospel on Good Friday Is Read by Lay People?
On Good Friday, the Passion Gospel is traditionally narrated by laypeople in addition to the priest and deacon, with the priest taking the role of Christ. This practice is an exception to the general rule that a priest or deacon should proclaim the Gospel in liturgical settings. The division of the Passion narrative allows for a more dramatic and participatory experience for the congregation, as different roles are assigned to the readers.
While priests and deacons are generally responsible for reading the Gospel, the Passion narrative is often divided into multiple speaking parts. This allows for the involvement of laypeople in the reading. Traditionally, the priest takes the role of Christ, while a deacon or lay reader can be the narrator. Other lay readers can also participate in reading the parts of other characters in the Gospel. The division of parts adds a dramatic element to the proclamation of the Passion narrative, as the different roles are read aloud.
By having different people read different parts, the congregation is also encouraged to participate in the proclamation of the Passion. While the Passion narrative is presented in a dramatic way, the main emphasis is still on the proclamation of the Word of God. The practice of reading in parts is meant to enhance the listeners’ understanding and reflection on the events of the Passion.