This part of an act of worship is usually a selection of readings from the Bible and a sermon (or other activity) that makes inspired, relevant links between life in the contemporary world and divine wisdom, power and love evident in scripture.

    

The readings may well be those listed for a particular Sunday in the Revised Common Lectionary, but preachers do not have to follow that list slavishly and may feel led to choose other readings.

    

A reading is most likely to be read by one person, but on occasions you may wish to present a reading in stereo - with two alternating and contrasting voices (placed like sound system speakers), perhaps even combining in unison for a phrase that merits particular emphasis.

    

Choral speaking is also worth considering, say, for a psalm, when the whole congregation has the words in front of them.  In some churches, there is a tradition of reading psalms antiphonally.  If this has drifted into choral speaking that pays little attention to meaning, then a more symphonic approach that makes the most of contrasting high and low voices, front and back, left and right, solo / duet / trio, and full orchestra can help give voice to a psalm with new conviction (even enjoyment!)  Rehearsal to express meaning enhances understanding.  Done with sensitivity and good humour, rehearsal can become integral to worship. 

    

Again, readings can be dramatised using the Bible text, perhaps with a narrator and different voices for speeches.  It is more controversial to let dramatisation go further with a new script, but it has been done.  The Epworth series ‘Companion to the Revised Common Lectionary’ Volume 9 ‘Dramatic Dialogues’ by Paul Glass ISBN 0-7162-0567-X has short sketches for two people based on a lectionary reading.  These could be used as a counterpoint to a traditionally-read Bible reading.

    

The sermon / address / homily is considered in more detail in the ‘Preaching’ section of this website.

    

An affirmation of faith, (probably the Nicene creed, or the Apostles' creed, but possibly another shorter affirmation from a denomination's prayer book) is properly part of the ministry of the Word.