The Gospel readings of the Sundays in Ordinary Time invite us to walk with Jesus as he lives out his mission, from his baptism to his final journey towards Jerusalem and his passion, death and resurrection.
The Gospel readings, therefore, are arranged each week in what we call a semi-continuous fashion. Apart from some excerpts here and there, we progressively proclaim the Gospel in order from beginning to end. Some parts, such as those directly related to the Seasons of Advent, Christmas, Lent and Easter, are reserved for those times of the year.
During Ordinary Time, the second reading is also a semi-continuous proclamation. We make our way through different New Testament letters (or epistles), listening to and reflecting on the teaching given to the early Christian communities. As Sacred Scripture is the living and active word of God, these teachings still speak to us today and challenge us to live in the way of Jesus.
Each “Year A”, we listen to the Gospel of Matthew, and to Mark and Luke the following years. While there is an obvious degree of commonality between these Gospels, each has its own unique characteristics that offer us a deeper insight into the person of Jesus and his teaching.
Published in our parish bulletin, Carmel, 8 February 2026
Liturgy 