Liturgy of the Word: First Reading Part 2.

ABOUT THE MASS.

 

THE MASS: ABOUT THE MASS ICON.

Liturgy of the Word: First Reading Part 2.

Some time ago, I went to Mass at a different Church. On my return journey, thinking I desperately needed a couple of Panadols’ to get over the experience, I tried to recall the readings at Mass. It was a rude awakening- my mind was totally blank. 

This experience proved valuable, as I realised how blessed we are when we hear the Word of God proclaimed well, and as I pondered: how can I practice and adapt the Readings and Gospel to my life during the coming week when I could not recall any part of them at all?

So, what about you? 

·                      Do you remember any part of the First Reading- a line, a phrase which spoke to you as the lector proclaimed it?  

·                     Do you prepare for Mass during the week by reflecting on the readings?

·                     What resolve do you have when you hear Christ in his Word speak to you?

What about our response to the readings?    

The Lector completes the reading, says: ‘This is the Word of the Lord’, and then pauses for silent reflection. It is a great opportunity to recall what has been proclaimed and its implication for your life during the week.  We as a congregation reply: ‘Thanks be to God’.

So what does this little response with so much significance mean to you?

Perhaps, on some Sundays it will have a different meaning for you. With all the responses at Mass, we can be caught saying them without thinking. Perhaps on the Sunday in question mentioned above it had another meaning for me!

Whenever we meet Christ in his Word and hear it proclaimed, let our hearts as well as our lips say 

‘Thanks be to God’