What role does a reader serve in the Church of Christ, Scientist?

In the Church of Christ, Scientist, a reader serves the essential role of being authorized to read lessons and scripture during services. This involves reading selections from the Bible and from the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy, as well as additional materials that are part of the Church’s spiritual service. Readers play a significant part in communicating the teachings and tenets of Christian Science to the congregation, allowing members to engage with the texts that define their faith. This role is vital for the worship experience and helps to foster understanding and spiritual growth within the community.

While administrators may manage church operations and counselors provide personal guidance, these roles are distinct from that of the reader. Preachers typically deliver sermons and interpret scripture, which is not the practice within this church as it emphasizes individual study and understanding of the scripture through readings rather than sermons. Therefore, the reader’s function is focused specifically on the pronouncement of sacred texts, making this the correct answer for the role defined in the question.