About the Mass: Liturgy of the Word-Overview

About the Mass Vol 1.
 

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Liturgy of the Word-Overview

The journey of the Mass continues in this series 'About the Mass' as we enter into Section 5- 
Liturgy of the Word.

The Liturgy of the Word is made up of four Sections.  These are:

1. PROCLAMATION OF GOD’S WORD:

The First Reading is from the Old Testament writings, Responsorial Psalm (from one of the 150 Psalms), Second Reading, Gospel Acclamation, and Gospel from the New Testament.  The Proclamation of God’s Word is always centred on Christ present through His Word.  Old Testament writings prepare for Him: New Testament books speak of Him directly.  All of Scripture calls us to believe once more and to follow Him.

How well do YOU listen to God’s Word?

2. HOMILY (Sermon):

Here God’s Word is spoken again in the Homily.  The Holy Spirit speaking through the lips of the priest explains and applies the Biblical Readings of the day to the needs of the particular congregation.  The Holy Spirit then calls us to respond to Christ through the life we lead.  

3. PROFESSION OF FAITH: (Nicene Creed)

As we recite the Profession of Faith, we express our acceptance of God’s message in the Scriptures and homily in a creed handed down from the early Church stemming from the first two ecumenical Councils in 325 and 381. It remains common to all the Great Churches of East and West to this day.

4. GENERAL INTERCESSIONS (Prayers of the Faithful)

As a priestly people, we unite with one another by praying for today’s needs in the Church and in the world.  Why do YOU think these 4 sections are grouped together in the Liturgy of the Word?