Gospel Procession

In many places it is customary to have a gospel procession to the place of reading. A procession may include several persons-the reader, two candle bearers, a thurifer, and, if needed, someone to hold the gospel book. Incense may be used to honor the gospel book. The presider blesses the deacon or other gospeler. The gospeler takes up the gospel book from the altar and follows the others to a lectern, ambo, pulpit, or into the midst of the congregation. Afterward, the reader leads the way back and places the altar book either on the altar or on a side table. If the gospeler is to preach, someone else may return the book to the altar.