Liturgy of the Word Liturgy of the Word

Liturgy of the Word

Liturgy of the Word During this part of the Mass we hear God's Word. He speaks to us through various readings and through the words of the priest. We also say prayers that show what we believe about our faith and to ask God for things people need.

The Liturgy of the Word is made up of 8 parts. 1 st Reading Responsorial Psalm 2 nd Reading Gospel Acclamation (Alleluia) Gospel Homily Creed Prayer of the Faithful

1 st Reading This reading usually comes from the Old Testament and shows God's plan for salvation. During the Easter season the reading comes from the Acts of the Apostles and tells stories about the early Church. At the end of the 1 st reading the lector says “The Word of the Lord. ” We respond “Thanks be to God. ”

Responsorial Psalm The psalms were written by King David. They can be sung or just recited. We are invited to participate by repeating one section of the psalm at certain times. One of the most well-known psalms is Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want. ” This reminds us that God takes care of us and that we should trust Him.

2 nd Reading The 2 nd reading comes from the New Testament. A 2 nd reading is not normally read at daily Mass. At the end of the 2 nd reading the lector says “The Word of the Lord. ” We respond “Thanks be to God. ”

Gospel Acclamation We stand. Most of the year we sing “Alleluia. ” During Advent and Lent we sing “Praise to you Lord Jesus Christ” instead. During daily Mass the Gospel Acclamation may not be sung.

Gospel The Gospel tells about Jesus' time on earth. The four Gospel writers were Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The Gospel can be read by the priest or by a deacon.

Gospel-cont. The priest says “Peace be with you. ” We respond “and with your spirit. ” The priest then says “A reading from the Gospel according to ______. ” We respond “Glory to you O Lord. ” Then we trace a cross over our heads, lips, and heart. At the end of the Gospel, the priest says “The Gospel of the Lord. ” We respond “Praise to your Lord Jesus Christ. ” Then we sit.

Homily During this time, the priest will speak to the congregation. He often will explain the readings and how they can help us learn how God wants us to live. We should focus on what the priest is saying.

Creed We stand to say this prayer. This prayer is not usually prayed at daily Mass. During this prayer, we say what it is we believe as Catholics. If you don't have the prayer memorized you can look on a prayer card or in the missal to find it.

I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father; through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, he suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Prayer of the Faithful We sometimes call these petitions. We ask for God's help. We often pray for religious and government leaders. We also often pray for the sick or for those who have died. The usual response is “Lord hear our prayer. ” This is the end of the Liturgy of the Word.