A basic and theological introduction to the role and work of a Church of England Reader, covering the full range of Reader ministry, together with a short history of reader ministry. This is a practical guide for candidates, trainees, and licensed Readers, and for all who work with them. The public ministry of the Church of England currently comprises some 27,000 licensed ministers and more than 10,000 Readers. In many parishes and benefices, it is Readers who make the local pattern of worship sustainable Sunday to Sunday.