The role of the acolyte when he reads the epistle during mass.

The acolyte reads the epistle, especially at more solemn celebrations, and is thus sometimes referred to as the epistoler. The epistle is traditionally read from a separate book, referred to as the epistolary, at the epistle-side (liturgical south) of the chancel gate. The reading may be done at the lectern at the pastor's discretion and according to the architectural setting.

At a stational or pontifical mass, where there are two acolytes, the one serving in the subdiaconal role may read the epistle.

It is preferable, but not required, for the epistle to be intoned on especially solemn occasions.