A Scripture Reader, who had to be a communicant of the Church of England for at least two years, was nominated by the minister of the parish to the bishop, to be examined as to his fitness for the office, either by the bishop himself or someone appointed for that purpose. On being approved the scripture reader was then appointed in writing by the bishop, and was under the control and direction of the glergyman who nominated him. It was the duty of the scripture reader to search out the most destitute and ignorant of the parishioners, and to read the Holy Scriptures from house to house. They were strictly prohibited from carrying, distributing, or reading from any book or publication except the Old and New Testament, the Book of Common Prayer, and any books sanctioned by the the incumbent. They were also strictly forbidden to preach anywhere.
The object of apppointing Scripture Readers was to give the clergy increased means of parochial efficiency.
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