CHAPEL OF THE HILLS

Hello! Pastor Pete and I want to thank you for volunteering to read the book of Exodus with us here at Chapel of the Hills. We are so excited to be hosting this event. We hope that it will be a powerful and meaningful experience for everyone involved.  

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Here is what you need to know. The general schedule will include a welcome and worship at the 10 o’clock hour. First reading to start around 10:20. In closing, there will be a second set of worship at the end of the last reading along with a closing prayer.

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There are 40 chapters in Exodus and our goal is to have a minimum of 20 people to read. That gives each reader two chapters. If more than 20 people sign up, progressively assignments will be adjusted to one chapter per person. We will stop at 40 volunteers – so for certain each reader will read at least one chapter.

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What time should I be there?

Each person will be assigned a designated time to read. However, due to the varying speeds at which people may read, we are also assigning a time range of at least an hour in an attempt to compensate for the variations. Potentially you read sooner or later than expected.

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Our first attempt at this showed that most people read fairly quickly which really created a problem with our time schedule. As a result, most people read sooner than we planned, and the timing for some was close to an hour off. We want to say that 30 min before and after your planned reading time is sufficient, but we learned from the last time that it was true for most but not for all. Our suggestion would be to plan to be there 30 minutes prior to your reading time, follow along on Facebook or on the website and be prepared to come sooner than expected. If you are not there on time we will have to put someone in your place. We may be able to fit you into another slot but we cannot guarantee it.

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What chapter/s will I be reading?

Each person will be assigned a chapter or chapters to read. Assigned chapters will correlate with your designated time slot.

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What Bible version?

To be consistent we are using only one version, the New Living Translation. We will supply printouts of your assigned chapters.

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How will I know when it’s my turn to read?

A volunteer will direct you. Two microphones will be set up on either side of the stage. One person will be at each microphone at all times. Readers will be lined up and alternate reading between the microphones. When one reader finishes the other will pick up where they left off. Each time a reader has finished reading, a volunteer will wipe the microphone clean, and the next volunteer will step up and wait their turn. Again, due to the unknown speed at which people will read, it will be important for you to keep track of what chapter we are on, so you know when you need to get in line.

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How should I read?

1. Start by stating the chapter. For example, if I start the reading I will say, “Chapter one…” then begin reading verse one. Each time a new chapter starts the reader should say the chapter and number.

2. Read at a smooth even pace, not too fast, not too slow.

3. Speak clearly and into the microphone.

4. Make each transition from one reader to the next as seamless as possible.

5. Read each word exactly as it is on your sheet – don’t paraphrase.

6. Feel free to animate with your voice and hands but don’t leave your position in front of the microphone.

Since you will already have your chapter assignment, practice at home.

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No commentary

While at the microphone you might be tempted to say hello, your name, share a story, explain a passage, or preach. If it’s not in the chapter you are reading, don’t say it. We are ONLY reading the book of Exodus. No other commentary is allowed. No exceptions.

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What if I find that I am unable to attend?

Notify us asap so that we can try and substitute someone else in. I encourage you to honor your commitment because it may be difficult for us to replace you.

 

Last but definitely not least, please consider fasting and praying the week before the event.

 

Thank you for choosing to be a part of this special day. We will do our best to keep you informed of any changes that may occur.  

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Pastor Pete & Melody

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