The Mass: Liturgy of the Word, The Gospel

On Sundays, we are invited to stand to greet the Gospel and watch as it is processed through the community. It is handed to the priest or deacon who takes it to the ambo/ lectern and there incenses it. He introduces the Gospel and, as we say, “Glory to You, Lord” many people make a small sign of the cross on their forehead, their lips and their heart. (see below)

As with so many gestures in the Mass, the standing up together - saying words together act as a sign of our shared worship. The Book of the Gospels contain the stories that form the backbone of our Faith.

These days, books are cheap and many intended to be read and disposed of - and it is easy to forget what power the printed word has. The honouring of the Book of the Gospels reminds us of the power of words and especially, the power of the Word - the Word of God. We stand up to acknowledge the presence of the Word among us - rather like standing to receive a guest - or in the presence of someone in authority. Here, our guest - the One in authority is the Word of God revealed in Jesus Christ.

Take Time Out

Spend a few minutes running through the Liturgy of the Word of a recent Mass - and reflect on how the different postures and gestures - and the words affected you. How did what you do with your body prime your soul and heart for what you were going to hear?

The little signs of the cross on the forehead, lips and heart are often accompanied by the silent saying of the words, “The Word of God (or the Gospel or Good News) in my mind - on my lips - in my heart” .

If you don’t already do this - try it. Make it prayerful - really mean what you say (and that goes as a reminder for everyone who already does it!) See what difference it makes to how you hear the Gospel.

Make use of silences and pauses to remember phrases from the Gospel or other readings - just let them surface and repeat them like a prayer. Gradually, their meaning goes deeper and deeper into your being and God’s Word becomes part of you....

(Remember the “richer fare” that Vatican II wanted for us? Well this is one way to savour the flavour... “taste and see that the Lord is good...”)