In 2019, Pope Francis invited the Church throughout the world each year to observe a Sunday of the Word of God, to be devoted to the celebration, study and dissemination of the word of God.” (Apostolic Letter Aperuit Illis, no. 3). It fulfils a proposal that he made at the end of the Holy Year of Mercy.
In most countries, this will be observed each year on the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time. As this day falls in what is often a time of summer holiday for many of us here in Australia, the Australian Bishops have decided that we will observe this day on the first Sunday in February.
In liturgical celebrations, including Mass, the word of God is more than a retelling of past events, or a guide for living the Christian life. The proclamation of the scriptures, rather, makes Christ present among us here and now – just as Christ is made present through the worshipping assembly, the person of the priest, and the Eucharist.
Today you will see a Lectionary for Mass (in fact, the first English language Lectionary our parish used) displayed near the tabernacle, reminding us that Jesus comes to us in both word and sacrament:
The Church has honored the word of God and the Eucharistic mystery with the same reverence… The Church is nourished spiritually at the twofold table of God’s word and of the Eucharist: from the one it grows in wisdom and from the other in holiness.
General Introduction to the Lectionary for Mass, no. 10
Preparing to Proclaim
Ministers of the Word, Word of God Sunday is the perfect time to explore our parish preparation resource, Preparing to Proclaim. It provides Ministers of the Word with the scripture text and supporting resources to help with the technical and spiritual preparation for your ministry. It is an essential resource for all readers. Take a look today.
NB Preparing to Proclaim requires a password for ministers to access. Contact us if you need the password.
Liturgy 