Concerning the Celebration

*It is the bishop's prerogative, when present, to be the principal 
celebrant at the Lord's Table, and to preach the Gospel.*

*At all celebrations of the Liturgy, it is fitting that the principal 
celebrant, whether bishop or priest, be assisted by other priests, and 
by deacons and lay persons.*

*It is appropriate that other priests present stand with the celebrant 
at the Altar, and join in the consecration of the gifts, in breaking the 
Bread, and in distributing Communion.*

*A deacon should read the Gospel and may lead the Prayers of the People.  
Deacons should also serve at the Lord's Table, preparing and placing on 
it the offerings of bread and wine, and assisting in the ministration of 
the sacrament to the people.  In the absence of a deacon, these duties 
may be performed by an assisting priest.*

*Lay persons appointed by the celebrant should normally be assigned the 
reading of the Lessons which precede the Gospel, and may lead the 
Prayers of the People.*

*Morning or Evening Prayer may be used in place of all that precedes the 
Peace and the Offertory, provided that a lesson from the Gospel is 
always included, and that the intercessions conform to the directions 
given for the Prayers of the People.*

*Additional Directions are on page 406.*