Do You Know Your Faith?

09-23-2018Weekly ReflectionRev. Emmanuel I. Ihemedu

Do you know the meaning of the Liturgy of the Word? Do you know why we have three readings on a Sunday Mass? Well, the Liturgy of the Word is God speaking to us. If you have been paying attention to the readings, you would have noticed that the first reading is always taken from the Old Testament except during the Easter season (check out the readings during this Easter period).In general, the first reading tells us what God did in the past for the chosen race (the people of Israel). This reading usually has a connection with the gospel reading.

The responsorial psalm follows the first reading. Psalms are prayers to God. After God has spoken to us in the first reading, we participate in prayerful dialogue with God in the psalm.

The second reading is taken from the writings of Paul or one of the other letters of the New Testament. The purpose of this reading is to expose us to these important writings.

The Gospel contains the words of Jesus and so it is always singled out with the marks of honor. The Alleluia verse before the gospel (of the acclamation during lent) is meant to emphasize that Jesus is present in the word of God.

As you listen to the Word of God in this Mass, may Jesus the Good Shepherd make you a witness to His uncommon favors, amen!

Fr. Emmanuel

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