The Word of God

On Word of God Sunday let us re-commit and deepen our engagement with Sacred Scripture. Salvation, faith, unity and mercy all depend on knowing Christ and Sacred Scripture. Pope Francis has invited us to use the third Sunday of Ordinary time to "be devoted to the celebration, study and dissemination of the Word of God."

The Vatican has offered some tips for celebrating Word of God Sunday including:

Proclamation of the Gospel is given greater solemnity. Consider an entrance procession with the Book of Gospels.

Give special attention also to the other scripture readings of the day. Proclaimers allow time to prepare through reflective consideration.

Use the books and not photocopies, notes or other pastoral aids.

The lectern from which the readings are proclaimed to be given a dignified presence.

Highlight the importance of silence with attentiveness to the Word.

Read more HERE

Word of God Sunday preparation could include: 

Using the poster to promote this special day. Download the poster HERE

Formation opportunities. Download resource ideas HERE

Commissioning of readers. Download suggested prayer for those reading the Word of God HERE

Use Lectio Divina to deepen understanding of God’s Word. Download Lectio resource HERE

Word of God Sunday collection of resources from FDLC, Washington DC HERE

Readings for Sunday 24 January the Third Sunday of Ordinary time

First Reading: Jonah 3:1-5, 10;

Responsorial Psalm: 24 (25) Teach me your ways. Full score HERE. 

Audio available from Michael Herry fms HERE

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 7: 29-31

Gospel: Mark 1:14-20

Suggested note for inserting into your parish newsletter HERE

Logo for promotional material download HERE

For information on the Catholic Biblical Federation Click HERE

"The Lord gives you His Word, so that you can receive it like a love letter … realize that He is at your side."

Pope Francis