Expert: Rev. Robert Woods - 2/15/2007

Question
Rev.Woods,

I would like to know about responsive reading in church.  Our church is having Women's Day this Sunday and I have been put in charge of saying a prayer during service and reading a poem or a responsive reading out of our Baptist hymnal.  What is the proper way to choose a responsive reading, our church rarely ever has responsive reading during service, so I'm not sure how to choose one, does it have to relate to the message that will follow by our pastor or do you just choose which ever one that you want?

Thank you, Amy Trull

Answer
Blessings and thank you for your question.

I am sorry, something happened to your question and it did not go through the first time.  So I am sorry it is late.

Responsive readings are usually scripture verses that have been put together at the back of the hymnal for particular themes, holidays, or calls to worship.  

There is no special way to pick them.  I would look for a reading that talks about women, mothers, or wives to go with your Women's Day theme.

The reading doesn't necessarily have to go with the Pastors message.