Category Archives: Sunday Reflections

NO: 5th Sunday of Easter / TLM: 4th Sunday after Easter

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Novus Ordo (Ordinary Form) Readings
  • 1st Reading:  Acts 9:26-31 – Initially distrusted, Saul joins Jerusalem disciples through Barnabas’s support, speaking boldly about Jesus.  Despite threats, he’s safely sent to Tarsus.  The church then experiences peaceful growth, strengthened and encouraged by the Holy Spirit.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 22:26-27, 28, 30, 31-32 – The whold world shall praise the Lord.
  • 2nd Reading:  1 John 3:18-24 – We are called to express love in actions and truth, not just words.  A clear conscience gives us confidence before God.  Obeying His commandments to believe in Jesus and love one another assures us of God’s indwelling Spirit.
  • Gospel Reading:  John 15:1-8 – Jesus described himself as the true vine and his Father as the gardener.  Branches not bearing fruit are removed, while fruitful ones are pruned for more yield.  He emphasized staying connected to him, akin to branches on a vine, as the key to bearing fruit.  Without him, nothing can be achieved.  Unfruitful branches are discarded.  Fruitfulness in believers brings glory to God and proves discipleship.
Traditional Latin Mass (Extraordinary Form) Readings
  • Epistle:  James 1:17-21
  • Gospel:  John 16:5-14

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NO: 4th Sunday of Easter / TLM: 3rd Sunday after Easter

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Novus Ordo (Ordinary Form) Readings
  • 1st Reading:  Acts 4:8-12 – Peter declared the healing of a man came through Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom they crucified but God raised.  He emphasized that salvation can only come through Jesus, the cornerstone the builders rejected.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 118:1, 8-9, 21-23, 26, 28, 29 – A prayer of thanksgiving to God for his kindness.
  • 2nd Reading:  1 John 3:1-2 – We are already God’s children, loved deeply by the Father.  The world doesn’t know us, as it didn’t know Him.  In the future, we’ll fully become like Him, seeing Him as He truly is.
  • Gospel Reading:  John 10:11-18 – I am the good shepherd who sacrifices his life for the sheep, unlike a hired hand who runs when danger comes.  I know my sheep and they know me.  I also have other sheep not of this pen; they will listen to my voice, making one flock under one shepherd.  I lay down my life voluntarily, with the authority to take it up again, as commanded by my Father.
Traditional Latin Mass (Extraordinary Form) Readings
  • Epistle:  1 Peter 2:11-19
  • Gospel:  John 16:16-22

For more:  go to Latin Mass Helper and select the reading of the day.

Continue reading NO: 4th Sunday of Easter / TLM: 3rd Sunday after Easter

NO: 3rd Sunday of Easter / TLM: 2nd Sunday after Easter

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Novus Ordo (Ordinary Form) Readings
  • 1st Reading:  Acts 3:13-15, 17-19 – Peter declares that by rejecting Jesus and choosing a murderer instead, the people and their leaders acted in ignorance.  His death and resurrection fulfill God’s prophecy.  Peter urges repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 4:2, 4, 7-8, 9 – A prayer seeking God’s favor.
  • 2nd Reading:  1 John 2:1-5 – If we sin, Jesus Christ, the righteous, advocates for us.  He atoned for our sins, extending beyond us to the whole world.  True knowledge of Him is demonstrated by obeying His commands.
  • Gospel Reading:  Luke 24:35-48 – The disciples recounted recognizing Jesus by the breaking of bread.  Jesus then appeared, offering peace and dispelling fears of his being a specter by showing his hands and feet and eating fish, demonstrating his physical resurrection.  He explained scripture prophecies about his suffering, resurrection, and the call to spread forgiveness in his name, affirming their roles as witnesses.
Traditional Latin Mass (Extraordinary Form) Readings
  • Epistle:  1 Peter 2:1-10
  • Gospel:  John 10:11-16

For more:  go to Latin Mass Helper and select the reading of the day.

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NO: 2nd Sunday of Easter (Divine Mercy Sunday)/TLM – 1st Sunday After Easter (Low Sunday)

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Novus Ordo (Ordinary Form) Readings
  • 1st Reading:  Acts 4:32-35 – The early believers were united, sharing possessions and resources.  The apostles’ powerful testimony about Jesus’ resurrection earned them high regard.  They distributed funds from sold properties to meet everyone’s needs, ensuring no was in need.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24 – The Lord’s mercy endures forever.
  • 2nd Reading:  1 John 5:1-6 – Belief in Jesus as the Christ shows we are born of God.  Loving God and His children means obeying His commandments, which are not burdensome.  Our faith in Jesus as God’s Son overcomes the world, affirmed by the Spirit of truth.
  • Gospel Reading:  John 20:19-31 – In a locked room, Jesus appeared to his disciples, offering peace and showing his wounds, which brought them joy.  He empowered them with the Holy Spirit and the authority to forgive sins.  Thomas, absent initially, doubted their testimony.  Later, Jesus appeared again, inviting Thomas to touch his wounds, leading to Thomas’ declaration of faith.  Jesus blessed future believers who wouldn’t see yet believe.  These events were recorded to affirm faith in Jesus as the Christ.
Traditional Latin Mass Readings
  • Epistle:  1 John 5:4-10
  • Gospel:  John 20:19-31

For more:  go to Latin Mass Helper and select the reading of the day.

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Visita Iglesia and Holy Triduum Reflections

Holy Thursday
  • 1st Reading:  Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14 – The Lord commands Moses and Aaron to mark the new year and prepare for Passover.  Each Israelite family is to select a flawless lamb, share as needed, and eat it with unleavened bread and bitter herbs.  The lamb’s blood will protect them from the impending plague, signifying the Lord’s mercy as He strikes Egypt but spares His people, establishing an eternal commemoration.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 116 – In response to God’s boundless grace, I vow to honor Him, lifting the cup of salvation as a symbol of my commitment.  Freed from my burdens, I dedicate my thanks and uphold my promises, embracing the covenant shared through Christ’s sacrifice.
  • 2nd Reading:  1 Corinthians 11:23-26 – On the night of His betrayal, Jesus estalibhsed the Eucharist.  Breaking bread, He offered it as His body, and the cup as the new covenant in His blood, instructing us to commemorate His sacrifice in this act until He comes again.
  • Gospel Reading:  John 13:1-15 – Before Passover, aware of his imminent departure, Jesus demonstrated his love by washing his disciples’ feet, a task for servants.  Peter initially resisted but accepted upon understanding its necessity for fellowship with Jesus.  Jesus used this act to teach humility and service, emphasizing that followers should emulate his example of serving others.
Good Friday
  • 1st Reading:  Isaiah 52:13-53:12 – A prophetic passage in the Hebrew Bible that describes the suffering of a righteous servant who is despised and rejected by others but ultimately bears their sins and brings healing through his sacrifice.  The passage is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is considered a central text in Christian theology.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 31 – These verses include the words spoke by Jesus on the cross as he surrendered his spirit to God.  Despite scorn and isolation, my faith in the Lord as my refuge remains unshaken.  Entrusting my future to His mercy, I seek His light and salvation, encouraging all to remain steadfast in their hope in the Lord.
  • 2nd Reading:  Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9 – Jesus is the ultimate high priest who sympathizes with human weakness and has made a perfect sacrifice for sin, thus providing a way for humanity to appraoch God with confidence.  The passage urges readers to hold fast to their faith in Jesus, who has been appointed by God as the source of eternal salvation.
  • Gospel:  John 18:1-19:42 – Jesus, after being betrayed by Judas, was arrested and face trials before Jewish and Roman leaders, culminating in his crucifixion.  Despite Pilate’s hesitation, pressured by Jewish authorities and a manipulated crowd, he consented to Jesus’ death.  Jesus was crucified at Golgotha alongside two others.  Before his death, he ensured care for his mother and declared his mission fulfilled.  His side was pierced, verifying his death.  Joseph oof Arimathea and Nicodemus buried Jesus in a new tomb, marking the preparation day’s urgency.
Easter Vigil
  • 1st Reading:  Genesis 1:1-2:2 – God creates the heavens and the earth.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 104:1-2, 5-6, 10, 12, 13-14, 24, 35 or Psalm 33:4-5, 6-7, 12-13, 20-22 – A song of praise to God, the Creator.
  • 2nd Reading:  Genesis 22:1-18 – God puts Abraham to the test.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 16:5, 8, 9-10, 11 – The Lord shows us the path of life.
  • 3rd Reading:  Exodus 14:15-15:1 – The Israelites pass through the Red Sea.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Exodus 15:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 17-18 – The song of praise that the Israelites sang after crossing the Red Sea.
  • 4th Reading:  Isaiah 54:5-14 – The Lord promises to redeem Israel.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 30:2, 4, 5-6, 11-12, 13 – A prayer of thanksgiving for God’s redemption.
  • 5th Reading:  Isaiah 55:1-11 – A call to return to the Lord who is merciful.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Isaiah 12:2-3, 4, 5-6 – The Lord sends his salvation.
  • 6th Reading:  Baruch 3:9-15, 32-4:4 – Israel is told to follow the way of God’s commandments.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11 – A prayer of praise for God’s commandments.
  • 7th Reading:  Ezekiel 36:16-17a, 18-28 – The Lord will cleanse Israel for the sake of his holy name.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 42:3, 5; 53:3, 4 or Isaiah 12:2-3, 4bcd, 5-6 or Psalm 51:12-13, 14-15, 18-19 – A prayer of praise for God who saves us.
  • Epistle:  Romans 6:3-11 – Those who have been baptized have died with Christ.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23 – God’s mercy endures forever.
  • Gospel Reading:  Mark 16:1-7– The women find that the stone from Jesus’ tomb has been rolled back, and an angel reports that Jesus has been raised from the dead.
Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord
  • 1st Reading:  Acts of the Apostles 10:34a, 37-43 – Peter preaches about Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23 – Rejoice in this day of the Lord.
  • 2nd Reading:  Colossians 3:1-4 – Having been raised by Christ, be concerned with what is above.  Or 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8 – Let us celebrate this feast with new yeast.
  • Gospel Reading:  John 20:1-9 – Mary of Magdala finds that the stone has been removed from Jesus’ tomb.

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Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion

  • Gospel at Procession with Palms:  Mark 11:1-10 – As Jesus neared Jerusalem, He sent disciples to fetch a colt, instructing them on how to respond if questioned.  Successfully bringing the colt to Jesus, they prepared it for Him.  Entering Jerusalem, Jesus was greeted exuberantly by crowds laying cloaks and branches before Him, acclaiming Him with shouts of “Hosanna” and recognizing Him as the herald of God’s kingdom, fulfilling a messianic prophecy and symbolizing His kingship in a humble manner.
  • 1st Reading:  Isaiah 50:4-7 – Endowed with the gift of speech by God, I encourage the weary and listen to His teaching daily.  Despite suffering, I stand firm, supported by God, confident in facing humiliation without shame.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 22:8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24 – A cry for help to the Lord in the face of evildoers.
  • 2nd Reading:  Philippians 2:6-11 – Christ, though divine, embraced humility, becoming human and obeying to the point of death on a cross.  Consequently, God elevated Him, ensuring every being honors Jesus as Lord, glorifying God the Father.
  • Gospel Reading:  Mark 14:1-15:47 – Jesus’ final days were marked by betrayal, the Last Supper, and teachings on readiness. After being betrayed by Judas, Jesus faced trials, denial by Peter, and crucifixion.  His death on the cross, amidst mockery, fulfilled prophecies and demonstrated profound love.  Buried by Joseph of Arimathea, Jesus’ sacrifice offered hope beyond death, emphasizing redemption and eternal life for humanity.

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5th Sunday of Lent

john-gentiles-come-seeking-jesus-1

  • 1st Reading:  Jeremiah 31:31-34 – God promises a new covenant with Israel and Judah, different from the old.  He will write His laws in their hearts, be their God, and they, His people.  All will know Him and be forgiven.
  • Responsorial PsalmPsalm 51:3-4, 12-13, 14-15 – A prayer for God’s mercy and forgiveness.
  • 2nd Reading:  Hebrews 5:7-9 – Jesus Christ, during His time on earth, earnestly prayed to the Father, and was heard for His deep reverence.  Through suffering, He learned obedience, becoming the source of eternal salvation for His followers.
  • Gospel Reading:  John 12:20-33 – When some Greeks sought Jesus during Passover, He spoke of His impending death, likening it to a grain of wheat tha tmust die to produce many seeds.  He emphasized self-denial for eternal life and the honor given to those who serve Him.  Jesus, troubled, chose to glorify God’s name over seeking rescue.  A divine voice affirmed this, leading to varied interpretations among the crowd.  Jesus explained His crucifixion would judge the world and draw all to Himself, revealing the nature of His death.

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4th Sunday of Lent

jesus-and-nicodemus-Crijn_Hendricksz

  • 1st Reading:  2 Chronicles 36:14-16, 19-23 – Judah’s betrayal of faith led to their exile as Babylon destroyed Jerusalem and the temple.  God’s warnings were ignored, resulting in captivity.  Fulfilling Jeremiah’s prophecy, the exile lasted until Cyrus of Persia decreed the rebuilding of the temple, marking the beginning of the return.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 137:1-2, 3, 4-5, 6 – A lament from exile for the loss of Jerusalem.
  • 2nd Reading:  Ephesians 2:4-10 – God, in His mercy, made us alive with Christ, saving us by grace through faith, not by our deeds, to display His grace in Christ.  We are created for good works, predestined by God.
  • Gospel Reading:  John 3:14-21 – Jesus has a conversation with Nicodemus and references Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness as a foreshadowing of his own crucifixion and the salvation that it would bring.  Jesus emphasizes the importance of believing in Him as the Son of God in order to receive eternal life, and highlights the judgment that will come to those who do not believe.

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3rd Sunday of Lent

  • 1st Reading:  Exodus 20:1-17 – God delivers the Ten Commandments:  worship only Him, avoid idolatry, respect His name, observe the Sabbath, honor parents, and refrain from murder, adultery, theft, lying, and coveting.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11 – A prayer of praise to God who gives us his commandments.
  • 2nd Reading:  1 Corinthians 1:22-25 – We proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles.  Yet, to the called, He embodies God’s power and wisdom, surpassing human understanding and strength.
  • Gospel Reading:  John 2:13-25 – At Passover, Jesus went to Jerusalem and found the temple commercialized.  He cleared it, rebuking those who made it a marketplace, fulfilling a prophecy of zeal for God’s house.  Challenged by Jewish leaders, he spoke of destroying and raising the temple in three days, signifying his resurrection.  Many believed in him, but Jesus remained cautious of human nature.

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6th Sunday in Ordinary Time

JesusHealsaLeper-stained-glass

  • 1st Reading:  Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46 – The Lord directed Moses and Aaron on handling potential leprosy, requiring priestly examination and, if confirmed, declaring the person unclean.  Afflicted individuals had to signify their condition by their appearance, vocalize their unclean status, and live in isolation, highlighting the seriousness with which leprosy was treated.
  • Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 32:1-2, 5, 11 – A prayer of contrition and confession for sin.
  • 2nd Reading:  1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1 – In everything, even in eating and drinking, aim to honor God.  Avoid causing offense, seeking the good of many for salvation.  Follow my example, as I follow Christ’s.
  • Gospel Reading:  Mark 1:40-45 – A leper’s plea for healing was met with Jesus’ compassionate touch and affirmation, leading to immediate cleansing.  Despite Jesus’ directive for discretion and adherence to Mosaic law for verification, the healed man publicized his miracle, complicating Jesus’ public ministry and drawing even larger crowds to seek him in solititude.

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