The Church is nourished spiritually at the table of God’s word and at the table of the eucharist: from the one it grows in wisdom and from the other in holiness. In the word of God the divine covenant is announced; in the eucharist the new and everlasting covenant is renewed. The spoken word of God brings to mind the history of salvation; the eucharist embodies it in the sacramental signs of the liturgy.
It may seem helpful to display the Scripture readings we listen to in the liturgy on the visual display screens in the church as they are proclaimed. Yet the Church reminds us that:
When the Sacred Scriptures are read in the Church, God himself speaks to his people, and Christ, present in his word, proclaims the Gospel.
The reading of Scripture is the Word of God announced, proclaimed to us. It is part of a dialogue where God speaks to us and we respond. This is more fully experienced through our listening, rather than following a written text.
Of course, individuals who need a printed text (such as for reasons of hearing) may use a printed text as a support. As an assembly, though, God invites us each time we gather to “listen to his voice” with open hearts. (Psalm 95:7-8)
Published in our parish bulletin, Carmel, 16 August 2026
Liturgy 