About the Readings at Mass

The Lectionary

This book contains the Scripture readings used at the celebration of the Eucharist, on Sundays and on weekdays for all seasons of the year. The Lectionary is placed on the ambo for use by the Minister of the Word and the presider during the Liturgy.

Lectionary 1             Contains the readings for the season of Advent, Christmas, Lent, Eastertide, as also the reading for Feast days. It also has all the readings for the Sundays in Ordinary Time.

Lectionary II            Contains all the readings for weekdays

Lectionary III          Contains all the readings for other occasions e.g. Marriages, Funerals, and Masses for Various Needs and Occasions.

It is recommended that people read from the Lectionary, so that today’s reading is heard in the context of all of God’s word.

 

Liturgy of the Word

First Reading           Usually from the Old Testament, chosen to complement the Gospel reading.

Resp. Psalm             One of the 150 psalms in the Book of Psalms. It is a song, to be sung and responds to the reading.

Second Reading       From the New Testament letters and books, other than the Gospels.

Acclamation             Alleluia verse is sung to welcome the Gospel.

Gospel                        We encounter the Risen Christ speaking to us.

Homily                       Readings are broken open in today’s context.

Creed                         We give voice to our faith in God.

Prayer of the Faithful Minister of the Word leads the petitions on behalf of all of the community.