Liturgy of the Word: Second Reading

About the Mass Series: 

 

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SECOND READING (EPISTLE)

The Second Reading presents the letters of the New Testament (the writings of the apostles). It is ‘semi continuous’, as it is spread out over the three year cycle, according to the tradition of Jewish synagogue practice. On Sundays, we have three readings, whilst during the week we have two, except on Feast days, such as, the Sacred Heart of Jesus. 
  

For centuries, the Roman liturgy used the term ‘Epistle’ to designate the reading, which preceded the Gospel, even when this reading was not taken from the New Testament Letter. 

We now refer to it as the Second Reading. However, did you notice the term ‘Epistle’ used in the Holy Saturday Ceremonies? In this ceremony, the Church offers us an extended Liturgy of the Word (3-4 readings from Old Testament), so it is apt that the term ‘Epistle’ is used at this time. It is as though we are being reminded of the different style of writing, and it is from the letters of the apostles.

Unlike the first Reading and Gospel, where there is a common theme or connection, the choice of text for the Second Reading on Sunday is quite independent.

In the second Reading, we encounter the early Church living its Christian faith. The witness of the apostolic community provides an example for all time, since we are invited to recall the love of the Father en-fleshed in Christ and the good news of our redemption.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION AT MASS

What about you?

• Do you remember any part of the Second 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?
• Do you reread the Second Reading again during the week?
• What about our response to the readings?   The Lector completes the reading, saying ‘This is the Word of the Lord’ and then pauses for silent reflection.

We as a congregation reply: ‘Thanks be to God’.

So, let us meet Christ in His Word this week as we hear it proclaimed.  

May our hearts as well as our lips say ‘Thanks be to God’.