Q: I understand that if a priest is in the congregation, not con-celebrating, and there are no other con-celebrants or a deacon, it is appropriate that he be invited to proclaim the Gospel. I have done this on occasions, but when present at a Mass myself , even in the front seat, as a member of the congregation, the presiding celebrant proclaims the Gospel, thinking, it would appear, that only a con-celebrant can proclaim the Gospel. Perhaps he is right.
A: I think he may be right on this. I usually would proclaim the gospel myself under the circumstances you mention.