A method is provided for handling of short message service (SMS) messages for a mobile station (MS) (10) served by a wireless telecommunications network. The method includes: receiving an SMS message at the MS (10), the SMS message being a text message; alerting a user of the MS (10) that the SMS message has been received; receiving an indication that the user desires to audibly retrieve the SMS message; converting the SMS message from a text message to a corresponding verbal message; and, playing the verbal message.