LENT
From the Roman Missal






Ash Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Week 1
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Week 2
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Week 3
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Week 4
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Week 5
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Holy Week
Palm Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Holy Thursday
Good Friday
Holy Saturday

1. It is strongly recommended that the tradition of gathering the local Church after the fashion of the Roman stations be kept and promoted, especially during Lent and at least in larger towns and cities, in a way best suited to individual places.

Such gatherings of the faithful can take place, especially with the chief Pastor of the diocese presiding, on Sundays or on other more convenient days during the week, either at the tombs of the Saints, or in the principal churches or shrines of a city, or even in the mor- frequently visited places of pilgrimage in the diocese.

If a procession precedes a Mass celebrated for such a gathering, according to circumstances and local conditions, the faithful gather at a smaller church or some other suitable place other than in the church to which the procession will head.

After greeting the people, the Priest says a Collect of the mystery of the Holy Cross for the remission of sins, or for the Church, especially the local Church, or one of the Prayers over the People. Then the procession makes its way to the church in which Mass will be celebrated and meanwhile the Litany of the Saints is sung. Invocations to the Patron Saint or the Founder Saint and to the Saints of the local Church may be inserted at the appropriate point in the Litany.

When the procession reaches the church, the Priest venerates the altar and, if appopriate, incenses it. Afterwards, omitting the Introductory Rites and, if appropriate, the Kyrie, he says the Collect of the Mass, and then continues the Mass in the usual way. 2. At these gatherings, instead of Mass, some celebration of the Word of God may also take place, especially in the form of the penitential celebrations given in the Roman Ritual for Lent.

3. On weekdays of Lent, at the end of Mass and before the final blessing, the Prayer over the People indicated for each day may appropriately be used. 4. During Lent, it is not permitted to decorate the altar with flowers, and the use of musical instruments is allowed only so as to support the singing. Nevertheless, Laetare Sunday (the Fourth Sunday of Lent), Solemnities, and Feasts are exceptions to this rule.



ASH WEDNESDAY

In the course of today's Mass, ashes are blessed and distributed. These are made from the olive branches or branches of other trees that were blessed the previous year.

Introductory Rites and Liturgy of the Word

ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Wis 11: 24, 25, 27
You are merciful to all, O Lord,
and despise nothing that you have made.
You overlook people's sins, to bring them to repentance,
and you spare them, for you are the Lord our God.

The Penitential Act is omitted, and the Distribution of Ashes takes its place.

COLLECT
Grant, O Lord, that we may begin with holy fasting
this campaign of Christian service,
so that, as we take up battle against spiritual evils,
we may be armed with weapons of self-restraint.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


A reading from the Book of the Prophet Joel                                         2:12-18
Even now, says the LORD,
return to me with your whole heart,
with fasting, and weeping, and mourning;
Rend your hearts, not your garments,
and return to the LORD, your God.
For gracious and merciful is he,
slow to anger, rich in kindness,
and relenting in punishment.
Perhaps he will again relent
and leave behind him a blessing,
Offerings and libations
for the LORD, your God.

Blow the trumpet in Zion!
proclaim a fast,
call an assembly;
Gather the people,
notify the congregation;
Assemble the elders,
gather the children
and the infants at the breast;
Let the bridegroom quit his room
and the bride her chamber.
Between the porch and the altar
let the priests, the ministers of the LORD, weep,
And say, “Spare, O LORD, your people,
and make not your heritage a reproach,
with the nations ruling over them!
Why should they say among the peoples,
‘Where is their God?’”

Then the LORD was stirred to concern for his land
and took pity on his people.


- PSALM 51 -
51:3-4, 5-6ab, 12-13, 14 and 17


R. (see 3a) Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness;
in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense.
Thoroughly wash me from my guilt
and of my sin cleanse me.
R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
For I acknowledge my offense,
and my sin is before me always:
Against you only have I sinned,
and done what is evil in your sight.
R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
A clean heart create for me, O God,
and a steadfast spirit renew within me.
Cast me not out from your presence,
and your Holy Spirit take not from me.
R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Give me back the joy of your salvation,
and a willing spirit sustain in me.
O Lord, open my lips,
and my mouth shall proclaim your praise.
R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.


A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians                     5:20-6:2

Brothers and sisters: We are ambassadors for Christ, as if God were appealing through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who did not know sin, so that we might become the righteousness of God in him.  

Working together, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain. For he says:  

In an acceptable time I heard you, and on the day of salvation I helped you.  

Behold, now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.


GOSPEL ANTIPHON
If today you hear his voice,/ harden not your hearts.


A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew                     6:1-6, 16-18

Jesus said to his disciples: “Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father. When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.   

“When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.   

“When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites. They neglect their appearance, so that they may appear to others to be fasting. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you may not appear to be fasting, except to your Father who is hidden. And your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you.” sees what is hidden will repay you.”


Blessing and Distribution of Ashes

After the Homily, the Priest, standing with hands joined, says:

Dear brethren (brothers and sisters), let us humbly ask God our Father
that he be pleased to bless with the abundance of his grace
these ashes, which we will put on our heads in penitence.

After a brief prayer in silence, and, with hands extended, he continues:

O God, who are moved by acts of humility
and respond with forgiveness to works of penance,
lend your merciful ear to our prayers
and in your kindness pour out the grace of your  blessing
on your servants who are marked with these ashes,
that, as they follow the Lenten observances,
they may be worthy to come with minds made pure
to celebrate the Paschal Mystery of your Son.
Through Christ our Lord
R. Amen.

Or:

O God, who desire not the death of sinners,
but their conversion,
mercifully hear our prayers
and in your kindness be pleased to bless + these ashes,
which we intend to receive upon our heads,
that we, who acknowledge we are but ashes
and shall return to dust,
may, through a steadfast observance of Lent,
gain pardon for sins and newness of life
after the likeness of your Risen Son.
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

He sprinkles the ashes with holy water, without saying anything.

Then the Priest places ashes on the head of all those present who come to him, and says
to each one:

Repent, and believe in the Gospel.

Or:

Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.

Meanwhile, the following are sung:

ANTIPHON 1
Let us change our garments to sackcloth and ashes,
let us fast and weep before the Lord,
that our God, rich in mercy, might forgive us our sins.

ANTIPHON 2          Cf. Jl 2: 17; Est 4: 17
Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord,
stand between the porch and the altar and weep and cry out:
Spare, O Lord, spare your people;
do not close the mouths of those who sing your praise, O Lord.

ANTIPHON 3           Ps 51 (50): 3
Blot out my transgressions, O Lord.

This may be repeated after each verse of Psalm 51 (50): Have mercy on me, O God.

RESPONSORY           Cf. Bar 3: 2; Ps 79 (78): 9
R. Let us correct our faults which we have committed in ignorance,let us not be taken unawares by the day of our death, looking in vain for leisure to repent. * Hear us, O Lord, and show us your mercy, for we have sinned against you.

V. Help us, O God our Savior;
for the sake of your name, O Lord, set us free.
* Hear us, O Lord . . .

Another appropriate chant may also be sung.

After the distribution of ashes, the Priest washes his hands and proceeds to the Universal
Prayer, and continues the Mass in the usual way.

The Creed is not said.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist



PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
As we solemnly offer
the annual sacrifice for the beginning of Lent,
we entreat you, O Lord,
that, through works of penance and charity,
we may turn away from harmful pleasures
and, cleansed from our sins, may become worthy
to celebrate devoutly the Passion of your Son.
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.


Preface III or IV of Lent.

PREFACE OF LENT III

It is truly right and just,
our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks,
Lord, holy Father,
almighty and eternal God.

For you will that our self-denial should give you thanks,
humble our sinful pride,
contribute to the feeding of the poor,
and so help us imitate you in your kindness.

And so we glorify you with countless Angels,
as with one voice of praise we acclaim:

Holy, holy, holy...


PREFACE OF LENT IV

It is truly right and just,
our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks,
Lord, holy Father,
almighty and eternal God.

For through bodily fasting you restrain our faults,
raise up our minds, and bestow both virtue and its rewards,
through Christ our lord.

Through him the Angels praise your majesty,
Dominions adore and Powers tremble before you.
Heaven and the Virtues of heaven
and the blessed Seraphim worship together with exultation.
May our voices, we pray,
join with theirs in humble praise, as we acclaim:

Holy, holy, holy...


COMMUNION ANTIPHON         Cf. Ps 1: 2-3
He who ponders the law of the Lord day and night
will yield fruit in due season


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May the Sacrament we have received sustain us, O Lord,
that our Lenten fast may be pleasing to you
and be for us a healing remedy.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE
For the dismissal, the Priest stands facing the people and, extending his hands over them, says this prayer:

Pour out a spirit of compunction, O God,
on those who bow before your majesty,
and by your mercy may they merit the rewards you promise
to those who do penance.
Through Christ our Lord.

The blessing and distribution of ashes may also take place outside Mass. In this case, the rite is preceded by a Liturgy of the Word, with the Collect, and the readings with their chants as at Mass. Then there follow the Homily and the blessing and distribution of ashes. The rite is concluded with the Universal Prayer, the Blessing, and the Dismissal of the Faithful.


Thursday after Ash Wednesday




ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 55 (54): 17-20, 23
When I cried to the Lord, he heard my voice;
he rescued me from those who attack me.
Entrust your cares to the Lord, and he will support you.


COLLECT
Prompt our actions with your inspiration, we pray, O Lord,
and further them with your constant help,
that all we do may always begin from you
and by you be brought to completion.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:
GOSPEL:
Deuteronomy 30:15-20
R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.      Psalms 1:1-2, 3, 4, 6
Repent says the Lord; the kingdom of heaven is at hand. -Mt 4:17
Luke 9:22-25


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Regard with favor, O Lord, we pray,
the offerings we set upon this sacred altar,
that, bestowing on us your pardon,
our oblations may give honor to your name.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface of Lent
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV



COMMUNION ANTIPHON         Cf. Ps 51 (50): 12
Create a pure heart for me, O God;
renew a steadfast spirit within me.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Having received the blessing of your heavenly gifts,
we humbly beseech you, almighty God,
that they may always be for us
a source both of pardon and of salvation.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Almighty God,
who have made known to your people
the ways of eternal life,
lead them by that path, we pray,
to you, the unfading light.
Through Christ our Lord.

Friday after Ash Wednesday



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Ps 30 (29): 11
The Lord heard and had mercy on me;
the Lord became my helper.


COLLECT
Show gracious favor, O Lord, we pray,
to the works of penance we have begun,
that we may have strength to accomplish with sincerity
the bodily observances we undertake.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:
GOSPEL:
Isaiah 58:1-9
R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.      Psalms 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 18-19
Seek good and not evil so that you may live, and the Lord will be with you. -See Amos 5:14
Matthew 9:14-15



PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
We offer, O Lord, the sacrifice of our Lenten observance,
praying that it may make our intentions acceptable to you
and add to our powers of self-restraint.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface of Lent
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV



COMMUNION ANTIPHON          Ps 25 (24): 4
O Lord, make me know your ways,
teach me your paths.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
We pray, almighty God,
that, through partaking of this mystery,
we may be cleansed of all our misdeeds,
and so be suited for the remedies of your compassion.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
For your mighty deeds, O God of mercy,
may your people offer endless thanks,
and, by observing the age-old disciplines
along their pilgrim journey,
may they merit to come and behold you for ever.
Through Christ our Lord.

Saturday after Ash Wednesday



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 69 (68): 17
Answer us, Lord, for your mercy is kind;
in the abundance of your mercies, look upon us.


COLLECT
Almighty ever-living God,
look with compassion on our weakness
and ensure us your protection
by stretching forth the right hand of your majesty.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Isaiah 58:9b-14
Psalms 86:1-2, 3-4, 5-6     R. Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.
I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked man, says the Lord,
but rather in his conversion, that he may live. -Ez. 33:11
Luke 5:27-32


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Accept, we pray, O Lord,
the sacrifice of conciliation and praise,
and grant that, cleansed by its working,
we may offer minds well pleasing to you.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface of Lent
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Mt 9: 13
I desire mercy, not sacrifice, says the Lord,
for I did not come to call the just but sinners.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Nourished with the gift of heavenly life,
we pray, O Lord,
that what remains for us a mystery in this present life
may be for us a help to reach eternity.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Abide graciously, O Lord, with your people,
who have touched the sacred mysteries,
that no dangers may bring affliction
to those who trust in you, their protector.
Through Christ our Lord.


FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT
On this Sunday is celebrated the rite of election or enrollment of names for the
catechumens who are to be admitted to the Sacraments of Christian Initiation at the
Easter Vigil, using the proper prayers and intercessions as given below.



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 91 (90): 15-16
When he calls on me, I will answer him;
I will deliver him and give him glory,
I will grant him length of days.
The Gloria in excelsis (Glory to God in the highest) is not said.


COLLECT
Grant, almighty God,
through the yearly observances of holy Lent,
that we may grow in understanding
of the riches hidden in Christ
and by worthy conduct pursue their effects.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS

VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:          Matt 4:4b
One does not live on bread alone,/
but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.

Non in pane solo vivit homo, sed in omni verbo quod procedit de ore Dei.
Year A
Gn 2:7-9; 3:1-7
Ps 51:3-6,12-13,17
R./ Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Rom 5:12-19
Mt 4:1-11
Year B
Gn 9:8-15
Ps 25:4-9
R./ Your ways, O Lord, are love and truth to those who keep your covenant.
1 Pt 3:18-22
Mk 1:12-15
Year C
Dt 26:4-10
Ps 91:1-2,10-11,12-13,14-15
R./ Be with me Lord, when I am in trouble.
Rom 10:8-13
Lk 4:1-13


The Creed is said.


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Give us the right dispositions, O Lord, we pray,
to make these offerings,
for with them we celebrate the beginning
of this venerable and sacred time.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE          The Temptation of the Lord

V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with your spirit.
V. Lift up your hearts.
R. We lift them up to the Lord.
V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
R. It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks,
Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God,
through Christ our Lord.

By abstaining forty long days from earthly food,
he consecrated through his fast
the pattern of our Lenten observance
and, by overturning all the snares of the ancient serpent,
taught us to cast out the leaven of malice,
so that, celebrating worthily the Paschal Mystery,
we might pass over at last to the eternal paschal feast.
And so, with the company of Angels and Saints,
we sing the hymn of your praise,
as without end we acclaim:
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts . . .


COMMUNION ANTIPHON Mt 4: 4
One does not live by bread alone,
but by every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.
Or: Cf. Ps 91 (90): 4
The Lord will conceal you with his pinions,
and under his wings you will trust.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Renewed now with heavenly bread,
by which faith is nourished, hope increased,
and charity strengthened,
we pray, O Lord,
that we may learn to hunger for Christ,
the true and living Bread,
and strive to live by every word
which proceeds from your mouth.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE
May bountiful blessing, O Lord, we pray,
come down upon your people,
that hope may grow in tribulation,
virtue be strengthened in temptation,
and eternal redemption be assured.
Through Christ our Lord.

Monday in the First Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 123 (122): 2-3
Like the eyes of slaves on the hand of their lords,
so our eyes are on the Lord our God, till he show us his mercy.
Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy.


COLLECT
Convert us, O God our Savior,
and instruct our minds by heavenly teaching,
that we may benefit from the works of Lent.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18
Psalms 19:8, 9, 10, 15      R. Your words, Lord, are spirit and life.
Behold, now is a very acceptable time,
behold, now is the day of salvation. - 2 Cor. 6:2
Matthew 25:31-46



PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
May this devout oblation be acceptable to you, O Lord,
that by your power it may sanctify our manner of life
and gain for us your conciliation and pardon.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface of Lent
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Mt 25: 40, 34
Amen, I say to you:
Whatever you did for one of the least of my brethren,
you did it for me, says the Lord.
Come, you blessed of my Father,
receive the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
We pray, O Lord, that, in receiving your Sacrament,
we may experience help in mind and body
so that, kept safe in both,
we may glory in the fullness of heavenly healing.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Enlighten the minds of your people, Lord, we pray,
with the light of your glory,
that they may see what must be done
and have the strength to do what is right.
Through Christ our Lord.

Tuesday in the First Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 90 (89): 1-2
O Lord, you have been our refuge,
from generation to generation;
from age to age, you are.


COLLECT
Look upon your family, Lord,
that, through the chastening effects of bodily discipline,
our minds may be radiant in your presence
with the strength of our yearning for you.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Isaiah 55:10-11
Psalms 34:4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19      R. From all their distress, God rescues the just.
One does not live on bread alone,
but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.- Matt 4:4b
Matthew 6:7-15



PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Receive, O Creator, almighty God,
what we bring from your bountiful goodness,
and be pleased to transform
this temporal sustenance you have given us,
that it may bring us eternal life.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface of Lent
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Cf. Ps 4: 2
When I called, the God of justice gave me answer;
from anguish you released me;
have mercy, O Lord, and hear my prayer!


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Grant us through these mysteries, Lord,
that by moderating earthly desires
we may learn to love the things of heaven.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
May your faithful be strengthened,
O God, by your blessing:
in grief, may you be their consolation,
in tribulation, their power to endure,
and in peril, their protection.
Through Christ our Lord.

Wednesday in the First Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 25 (24): 6, 2, 22
Remember your compassion, O Lord,
and your merciful love, for they are from of old.
Let not our enemies exult over us.
Redeem us, O God of Israel, from all our distress.


COLLECT
Look kindly, Lord, we pray,
on the devotion of your people,
that those who by self-denial are restrained in body
may by the fruit of good works be renewed in mind.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Jonah 3:1-10
Psalms 51:3-4, 12-13, 18-19      R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.
Even now, says the Lord, return to me with your whole heart,
for I am gracious and merciful.- Joel 2:12-13
Luke 11:29-32


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
We offer to you, O Lord,
what you have given to be dedicated to your name,
that, just as for our benefit you make these gifts a Sacrament,
so you may let them become for us an eternal remedy.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface of Lent
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Cf. Ps 5: 12
All who take refuge in you shall be glad, O Lord,
and ever cry out their joy, and you shall dwell among them.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
O God, who never cease to nourish us by your Sacrament,
grant that the refreshment you give us through it
may bring us unending life.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Watch over your people, Lord,
and in your kindness cleanse them from all sins,
for if evil has no dominion over them,
no trial can do them harm.
Through Christ our Lord.

Thursday in the First Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 5: 2-3
To my words give ear, O Lord; give heed to my sighs.
Attend to the sound of my cry, my King and my God.


COLLECT
Bestow on us, we pray, O Lord,
a spirit of always pondering on what is right
and of hastening to carry it out,
and, since without you we cannot exist,
may we be enabled to live according to your will.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Esther C:12, 14-16, 23-25
Psalms 138:1-2, 2-3, 7-8      R. Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.
A clean heart create for me, O God;
give me back the joy of your salvation. - Ps 51:12a, 14a
Matthew 7:7-12


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Be merciful, O Lord, to those who approach you in supplication,
and, accepting the oblations and prayers of your people,
turn the hearts of us all towards you.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface of Lent
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Mt 7: 8
Everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds;
and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
We pray, O Lord our God,
that, as you have given these most sacred mysteries
to be the safeguard of our salvation,
so you may make them a healing remedy for us,
both now and in time to come.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
May the mercy they have hoped for, O Lord,
come to those who make supplication to you,
and may the riches of heaven be given them,
that they may know what it is right to ask
and receive what they have sought.
Through Christ our Lord.

Friday in the First Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 25 (24): 17-18
Set me free from my distress, O Lord.
See my lowliness and suffering,
and take away all my sins.


COLLECT
Grant that your faithful, O Lord, we pray,
may be so conformed to the paschal observances,
that the bodily discipline now solemnly begun
may bear fruit in the souls of all.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Ezekiel 18:21-28
Psalms 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8      R. If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, who can stand?
Cast away from you all the crimes you have committed, says the Lord,
and make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. - Ez 18:31
Matthew 5:20-26


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Accept the sacrificial offerings, O Lord,
by which, in your power and kindness,
you willed us to be reconciled to yourself
and our salvation to be restored.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface of Lent
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Ez 33: 11
As I live, says the Lord, I do not desire the death of the sinner,
but rather that he turn back and live.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May the holy refreshment of your Sacrament
restore us anew, O Lord,
and, cleansing us of old ways,
take us up into the mystery of salvation.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Look with favor on your people, O Lord,
that what their observance outwardly declares
it may inwardly bring about.
Through Christ our Lord.

Saturday in the First Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 19 (18): 8
The law of the Lord is perfect; it revives the soul.
The decrees of the Lord are steadfast; they give wisdom to the simple.


COLLECT
Turn our hearts to you, eternal Father,
and grant that, seeking always the one thing necessary
and carrying out works of charity,
we may be dedicated to your worship.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Deuteronomy 26:16-19
Psalms 119:1-2, 4-5, 7-8      R. Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!
Behold, now is a very acceptable time,
behold, now is the day of salvation. - 2 Cor. 6:2
Matthew 5:43-48


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
May these blessed mysteries
by which we are restored, O Lord, we pray,
make us worthy of the gift they bestow.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Mt 5: 48
Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect, says the Lord.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Show unceasing favor, O Lord,
to those you refresh with this divine mystery,
and accompany with salutary consolations
those you have imbued with heavenly teaching.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
May the blessing for which they have longed
strengthen your faithful, O God,
so that, never straying from your will,
they may always rejoice in your benefits.
Through Christ our Lord.

SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT

ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 27 (26): 8-9
Of you my heart has spoken, Seek his face.
It is your face, O Lord, that I seek;
hide not your face from me.

Or:           Cf. Ps 25 (24): 6, 2, 22
Remember your compassion, O Lord,
and your merciful love, for they are from of old.
Let not our enemies exult over us.
Redeem us, O God of Israel, from all our distress.
The Gloria in excelsis (Glory to God in the highest) is not said.


COLLECT
O God, who have commanded us
to listen to your beloved Son,
be pleased, we pray,
to nourish us inwardly by your word,
that, with spiritual sight made pure,
we may rejoice to behold your glory.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS

VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:          Cf. Matt 17:5
From the shining cloud the Father's voice is heard:
This is my beloved Son, hear him.

In splendenti nube, paterna vox audita est: Hic est Filius meus dilectus, ipsum audite.
Year A
Gn 12:1-4
Ps 33:4-5,18-20,22
R./ Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
2 Tm 1:8-10
Mt 17:1-9
Year B
Gn 22:1-2,9,10-13,15-18
Ps 116:10,15-19
R./ I will walk before the Lord, in the land of the living.
Rom 8:31-34
Mk 9:2-10
Year C
Gn 15:5-12, 17-18
Ps 27:1,7-8, 8-9, 13-14
R./ The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Phil 3:17-4:1 or Phil 3:20-4:1
Lk 9:28b-36

The Creed is said.


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
May this sacrifice, O Lord, we pray,
cleanse us of our faults
and sanctify your faithful in body and mind
for the celebration of the paschal festivities.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE          The Transfiguration of the Lord.

V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with your spirit.
V. Lift up your hearts.
R. We lift them up to the Lord.
V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
R. It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks,
Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God,
through Christ our Lord.
For after he had told the disciples of his coming Death,
on the holy mountain he manifested to them his glory,
to show, even by the testimony of the law and the prophets,
that the Passion leads to the glory of the Resurrection.
And so, with the Powers of heaven,
we worship you constantly on earth,
and before your majesty
without end we acclaim:

Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts . . .


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Mt 17: 5
This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased;
listen to him.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
As we receive these glorious mysteries,
we make thanksgiving to you, O Lord,
for allowing us while still on earth
to be partakers even now of the things of heaven.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE
Bless your faithful, we pray, O Lord,
with a blessing that endures for ever,
and keep them faithful
to the Gospel of your Only Begotten Son,
so that they may always desire and at last attain
that glory whose beauty he showed in his own Body,
to the amazement of his Apostles.
Through Christ our Lord.

Monday in the Second Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 26 (25): 11-12
Redeem me, O Lord, and have mercy on me.
My foot stands on level ground;
I will bless the Lord in the assembly.


COLLECT
O God, who have taught us
to chasten our bodies
for the healing of our souls,
enable us, we pray,
to abstain from all sins,
and strengthen our hearts
to carry out your loving commands.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Daniel 9:4b-10
Psalms 79:8, 9, 11, 13      R. Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.
Your words, Lord are Spirit and life;
You have the words of everlasting life. - Cf. Jn 6:63c, 68c
Luke 6:36-38


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Accept in your goodness these our prayers, O Lord,
and set free from worldly attractions
those you allow to serve the heavenly mysteries.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Lk 6: 36
Be merciful, as your Father is merciful, says the Lord.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May this Communion, O Lord,
cleanse us of wrongdoing
and make us heirs to the joy of heaven.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Confirm the hearts of your faithful, O Lord, we pray,
and strengthen them by the power of your grace,
that they may be constant in making supplication to you
and sincere in love for one another.
Through Christ our Lord.

Tuesday in the Second Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 13 (12): 4-5
Give light to my eyes lest I fall asleep in death,
lest my enemy say: I have overcome him.


COLLECT
Guard your Church, we pray, O Lord, in your unceasing mercy,
and, since without you mortal humanity is sure to fall,
may we be kept by your constant helps from all harm
and directed to all that brings salvation.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Isaiah 1:10, 16-20
Psalms 50:8-9, 16-17, 21, 23      R. To the upright, I will show the saving power of God.
Cast away from you all the crimes you have committed, says the Lord,
and make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. - Ez. 18:31
Matthew 23:1-12


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Be pleased to work your sanctification within us
by means of these mysteries, O Lord,
and by it may we be cleansed of earthly faults
and led to the gifts of heaven.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Ps 9: 2-3
I will recount all your wonders.
I will rejoice in you and be glad,
and sing psalms to your name, O Most High.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May the refreshment of this sacred table,
O Lord, we pray,
bring us an increase in devoutness of life
and the constant help of your work of conciliation.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Graciously hear the cries of your faithful, O Lord,
and relieve the weariness of their souls,
that, having received your forgiveness,
they may ever rejoice in your blessing.
Through Christ our Lord.

Wednesday in the Second Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 38 (37): 22-23
Forsake me not, O Lord! My God, be not far from me!
Make haste and come to my help, O Lord, my strong salvation!


COLLECT
Keep your family, O Lord,
schooled always in good works,
and so comfort them with your protection here
as to lead them graciously to gifts on high.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Jeremiah 18:18-20
Psalms 31:5-6, 14, 15-16      R. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.
I am the light of the world, says the Lord,
whoever follows me will have the light of life. - Jn. 8:12
Matthew 20:17-28


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Look with favor, Lord,
on the sacrificial gifts we offer you,
and by this holy exchange
undo the bonds of our sins.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Mt 20: 28
The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve,
and to give his life as a ransom for many.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Grant, we pray, O Lord our God,
that what you have given us as the pledge of immortality
may work for our eternal salvation.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Bestow upon your servants, Lord,
abundance of grace and protection;
grant health of mind and body;
grant fullness of fraternal charity,
and make them always devoted to you.
Through Christ our Lord.

Thursday in the Second Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 139 (138): 23-24
Test me, O God, and know my thoughts.
See that my path is not wicked,
and lead me in the way everlasting.


COLLECT
O God, who delight in innocence and restore it,
direct the hearts of your servants to yourself,
that, caught up in the fire of your Spirit,
we may be found steadfast in faith
and effective in works.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Jeremiah 17:5-10
Psalms 1:1-2, 3, 4, 6      R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.
Blessed are they who have kept the word with a generous heart
and yield a harvest through perseverance. - Cf. Lk 8:15
Luke 16:19-31


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
By this present sacrifice, we pray, O Lord,
sanctify our observance,
that what Lenten discipline outwardly declares
it may inwardly bring about.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Ps 119 (118): 1
Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the Lord.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May this sacrifice, O God,
remain active in its effects
and work ever more strongly within us.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Abide with your servants, O Lord,
who implore the help of your grace,
that they may receive from you
the support and guidance of your protection.
Through Christ our Lord.

Friday in the Second Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 31 (30): 2, 5
In you, O Lord, I put my trust, let me never be put to shame;
release me from the snare they have hidden for me,
for you indeed are my refuge.


COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty God,
that, purifying us by the sacred practice of penance,
you may lead us in sincerity of heart
to attain the holy things to come.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13, 17-18
Psalms 105:16-17, 18-19, 20-21      R. Remember the marvels the Lord has done.
God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son;
so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life. - Jn 3:16
Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
May your merciful grace prepare your servants, O God,
for the worthy celebration of these mysteries,
and lead them to it by a devout way of life.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           1 Jn 4: 10
God loved us, and sent his Son
as expiation for our sins.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Having received this pledge of eternal salvation,
we pray, O Lord,
that we may set our course so well
as to attain the redemption you promise.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Grant your people, O Lord, we pray,
health of mind and body,
that by constancy in good deeds
they may always merit the defense of your protection.
Through Christ our Lord.

Saturday in the Second Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Ps 145 (144): 8-9
The Lord is kind and full of compassion,
slow to anger, abounding in mercy.
How good is the Lord to all,
compassionate to all his creatures.


COLLECT
O God, who grant us by glorious healing remedies while still on earth
to be partakers of the things of heaven,
guide us, we pray, through this present life
and bring us to that light in which you dwell.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Micah 7:14-15, 18-20
Psalms 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12      R. The Lord is kind and merciful.
I will get up and go to my father and shall say to him,
Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. - Luke 15:18
Luke 15:1-3, 11-32


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Through these sacred gifts, we pray, O Lord,
may our redemption yield its fruits,
restraining us from unruly desires
and leading us onward to the gifts of salvation.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Lk 15: 32
You must rejoice, my son,
for your brother was dead and has come to life;
he was lost and is found.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May your divine Sacrament, O Lord, which we have received,
fill the inner depths of our heart
and, by its working mightily within us,
make us partakers of its grace.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
May the ears of your mercy be open, O Lord,
to the prayers of those who call upon you;
and that you may grant what they desire,
have them ask what is pleasing to you.
Through Christ our Lord.




THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT



On this Sunday is celebrated the first scrutiny in preparation for the Baptism of the catechumens who are to be admitted to the Sacraments of Christian Initiation at the Easter Vigil, using the proper prayers and intercessions as given below.


ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 25 (24): 15-16
My eyes are always on the Lord,
for he rescues my feet from the snare.
Turn to me and have mercy on me,
for I am alone and poor.

Or:           Cf. Ez 36: 23-26
When I prove my holiness among you,
I will gather you from all the foreign lands;
and I will pour clean water upon you
and cleanse you from all your impurities,
and I will give you a new spirit, says the Lord.
The Gloria in excelsis (Glory to God in the highest) is not said.


COLLECT
O God, author of every mercy and of all goodness,
who in fasting, prayer and almsgiving
have shown us a remedy for sin,
look graciously on this confession of our lowliness,
that we, who are bowed down by our conscience,
may always be lifted up by your mercy.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.



READINGS

VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:          Cf. Jn 4:42, 15
Lord, you are truly the Savior of the world;
give me living water, that I may never thirst again.

Domine, tu er vere Salvator mundi; da mihi aquam vivam ut non sitiam.
Year A
Ex 17:3-7
Ps 95:1-2,6-9
R./ If today you hear his voice,harden not your hearts.
Rom 5:1-2,5-8
Jn 4:5-42 or Jn 4:5-15, 19b-26,39a,40-42
Year B
Ex 20:1-17 or Ex 20:1-3,7-8,12-17
Ps 19:8-11
R./ Lord, you have the words of everlasting life.
1 Cor 1:22-25
Jn 2:13-25
Year C
Ex 3:1-8a, 13-15
Ps 103:1-2,3-4,6-7,8,11
R./ The Lord is kind and merciful.
1 Cor 10:1-6, 10-12
Lk 13:1-9


The Creed is said.


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Be pleased, O Lord, with these sacrificial offerings,
and grant that we who beseech pardon for our own sins,
may take care to forgive our neighbor.
Through Christ our Lord.


When the Gospel of the Samaritan Woman is not read, preface I or II of Lent is used.
Preface I
Preface II


PREFACE          The Samaritan Woman

V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with your spirit.
V. Lift up your hearts.
R. We lift them up to the Lord.
V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
R. It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks,
Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God,
through Christ our Lord.
For when he asked the Samaritan woman for water to drink,
he had already created the gift of faith within her
and so ardently did he thirst for her faith,
that he kindled in her the fire of divine love.
And so we, too, give you thanks
and with the Angels
praise your mighty deeds, as we acclaim:
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts . . .


COMMUNION ANTIPHON
When the Gospel of the Samaritan Woman is read:           Jn 4: 13-14
For anyone who drinks it, says the Lord,
the water I shall give will become in him
a spring welling up to eternal life.

When another Gospel is read:           Cf. Ps 84 (83): 4-5
The sparrow finds a home,
and the swallow a nest for her young:
by your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.
Blessed are they who dwell in your house,
for ever singing your praise.

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
As we receive the pledge
of things yet hidden in heaven
and are nourished while still on earth
with the Bread that comes from on high,
we humbly entreat you, O Lord,
that what is being brought about in us in mystery
may come to true completion.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE
Direct, O Lord, we pray, the hearts of your faithful,
and in your kindness grant your servants this grace:
that, abiding in the love of you and their neighbor,
they may fulfill the whole of your commands.
Through Christ our Lord.


Monday in the Third Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Ps 84 (83): 3
My soul is longing and yearning for the courts of the Lord.
My heart and my flesh cry out to the living God.


COLLECT
May your unfailing compassion, O Lord,
cleanse and protect your Church,
and, since without you she cannot stand secure,
may she be always governed by your grace.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:

VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
2 Kings 5:1-15
Psalms 42:2, 3; 43:3, 4      R. Athirst is my soul for the living God. When shall I go and behold the face of God?
I hope in the Lord, I trust in his word;
with him there is kindness and plenteous redemption. - Psalm 130:5,7
Luke 4:24-30



PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
May what we offer you, O Lord,
in token of our service,
be transformed by you into the sacrament of salvation.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Ps 117 (116): 1, 2
O praise the Lord, all you nations,
for his merciful love towards us is great.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May communion in this your Sacrament,
we pray, O Lord,
bring with it purification and the unity that is your gift.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
May your right hand, we ask, O Lord,
protect this people that makes entreaty to you:
graciously purify them and give them instruction,
that, finding solace in this life,
they may reach the good things to come.
Through Christ our Lord.

Tuesday in the Third Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 17 (16): 6, 8
To you I call, for you will surely heed me, O God;
turn your ear to me; hear my words.
Guard me as the apple of your eye;
in the shadow of your wings protect me.


COLLECT
May your grace not forsake us, O Lord, we pray,
but make us dedicated to your holy service
and at all times obtain for us your help.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Daniel 3:25, 34-43
Psalms 25:4-5ab, 6 and 7bc, 8-9      R. Remember you mercies, O Lord.
Even now, says the Lord, return to me with your whole heart;
for I am gracious and merciful.- Jl 2:12-13
Matthew 18:21-35



PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Grant us, O Lord, we pray,
that this saving sacrifice
may cleanse us of our faults
and become an oblation
pleasing to your almighty power.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Cf. Ps 15 (14): 1-2
Lord, who may abide in your tent,
and dwell on your holy mountain?
Whoever walks without fault and does what is just.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May the holy partaking of this mystery
give us life, O Lord, we pray,
and grant us both pardon and protection.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
O God, founder and ruler of your people,
drive away the sins that assail them,
that they may always be pleasing to you
and ever safe under your protection.
Through Christ our Lord.

Wednesday in the Third Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 119 (118): 133
Let my steps be guided by your promise; may evil never rule me.


COLLECT
Grant, we pray, O Lord,
that, schooled through Lenten observance
and nourished by your word,
through holy restraint
we may be devoted to you with all our heart
and be ever united in prayer.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9
Psalms 147:12-13, 15-16, 19-20      R. Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.
Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life;
you have the words of everlasting life. - See Jn 6:63c, 68c
Matthew 5:17-19


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Accept, O Lord, we pray, the prayers of your people
along with these sacrificial offerings,
and defend those who celebrate your mysteries
from every kind of danger.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Cf. Ps 16 (15): 11
You will show me the path of life,
the fullness of joy in your presence, O Lord.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May the heavenly banquet, at which we have been fed,
sanctify us, O Lord,
and, cleansing us of all errors,
make us worthy of your promises from on high.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Give to your people, our God,
a resolve that is pleasing to you,
for, by conforming them to your teachings,
you bestow on them every favor.
Through Christ our Lord.

Thursday in the Third Week of Lent




ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          
I am the salvation of the people, says the Lord.
Should they cry to me in any distress,
I will hear them, and I will be their Lord for ever.


COLLECT
We implore your majesty most humbly, O Lord,
that, as the feast of our salvation draws ever closer,
so we may press forward all the more eagerly
towards the worthy celebration of the Paschal Mystery.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Jeremiah 7:23-28
Psalms 95:1-2, 6-7, 8-9      R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
Even now, says the LORD, return to me with your whole heart,
for I am gracious and merciful. - Jl 2:12-13
Luke 11:14-23


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Cleanse your people, Lord, we pray,
from every taint of wickedness,
that their gifts may be pleasing to you;
and do not let them cling to false joys,
for you promise them the rewards of your truth.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Ps 119 (118): 4-5
You have laid down your precepts to be carefully kept;
may my ways be firm in keeping your statutes.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Graciously raise up, O Lord,
those you renew with this Sacrament,
that we may come to possess your salvation
both in mystery and in the manner of our life.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
We call on your loving kindness
and trust in your mercy, O Lord,
that, since we have from you all that we are,
through your grace we may seek what is right
and have strength to do the good we desire.
Through Christ our Lord.

Friday in the Third Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Ps 86 (85): 8, 10
Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord,
for you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God.


COLLECT
Pour your grace into our hearts, we pray, O Lord,
that we may be constantly drawn away from unruly desires
and obey by your own gift the heavenly teaching you give us.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Hosea 14:2-10
Psalms 81:6-8, 8-9, 10-11, 14, 17      R. I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.
Repent, says the Lord;
the Kingdom of heaven is at hand. - Mt 4:17
Mark 12:28-34


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Look with favor, we pray, Lord,
on the offerings we dedicate,
that they may be pleasing in your sight
and always be salutary for us.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Cf. Mk 12: 33
To love God with all your heart, and your neighbor as yourself,
is worth more than any sacrifice.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May your strength be at work in us, O Lord,
pervading our minds and bodies,
that what we have received
by participating in this Sacrament
may bring us the fullness of redemption.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Look graciously, O Lord,
upon the faithful who implore your mercy,
that, trusting in your kindness,
they may spread far and wide
the gifts your charity has bestowed.
Through Christ our Lord.


Saturday in the Third Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Ps 103 (102): 2-3
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and never forget all his benefits;
it is he who forgives all your sins.


COLLECT
Rejoicing in this annual celebration
of our Lenten observance,
we pray, O Lord,
that, with our hearts set on the paschal mysteries,
we may be gladdened by their full effects.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Hosea 6:1-6
Psalms 51:3-4, 18-19, 20-21 R. It is mercy I desire and not sacrifice. If today you hear his voice,
harden not your hearts. - Ps 95:8
Luke 18:9-14


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
O God, by whose grace it comes to pass
that we may approach your mysteries
with minds made pure,
grant, we pray,
that, in reverently handing them on,
we may offer you fitting homage.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Lk 18: 13
The tax collector stood at a distance, beating his breast and saying:
O God, be merciful to me, a sinner.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May we truly revere, O merciful God,
these holy gifts, by which you ceaselessly nourish us,
and may we always partake of them
with abundant faith in our heart.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Hold out to your faithful people, Lord,
the right hand of heavenly assistance,
that they may seek you with all their heart
and merit the granting of what they ask.
Through Christ our Lord.

In this Mass, the color violet or rose is used. Instrumental music is permitted, and the
altar may be decorated with flowers.
On this Sunday is celebrated the second scrutiny in preparation for the Baptism of the
catechumens who are to be admitted to the Sacraments of Christian Initiation at the
Easter Vigil, using the proper prayers and intercessions as given below.


FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Is 66: 10-11
Rejoice, Jerusalem, and all who love her.
Be joyful, all who were in mourning;
exult and be satisfied at her consoling breast.
The Gloria in excelsis (Glory to God in the highest) is not said.


COLLECT
O God, who through your Word
reconcile the human race to yourself in a wonderful way,
grant, we pray,
that with prompt devotion and eager faith
the Christian people may hasten
toward the solemn celebrations to come.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS

VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:          Cf. Jn 4:42, 15
I am the light of the world, says the Lord;
whoever follows me will have the light of life.

Ego sum lux mundi, dicit Dominus; qui sequitur me, habebit lucem vitae.
Year A
1 Sm 16:1,6-7,10-13
Ps 23:1-6
R./ The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Eph 5:8-14
Jn 9:1-41 or Jn 9:1,6-9,13-17,34-38
Year B
2 Chr 36:14-16,19-23
Ps 137:1-6
R./ Let my tongue be silenced, if I ever forget you!
Eph 2:4-10
Jn 3:14-21
Year C
Jos 5:9a, 10-12
Ps 34:2-3,4-5,6-7
R./ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.
2 Cor 5:17-21
Lk 15:1-3, 11-32


The Creed is said.


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
We place before you with joy these offerings,
which bring eternal remedy, O Lord,
praying that we may both faithfully revere them
and present them to you, as is fitting,
for the salvation of all the world.
Through Christ our Lord.

When the Gospel of the Man Born Blind is not read, preface I or II of Lent, is used
Preface I
Preface II


PREFACE           The Man Born Blind

V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with your spirit.
V. Lift up your hearts.
R. We lift them up to the Lord.
V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
R. It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks,
Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God,
through Christ our Lord.
By the mystery of the Incarnation,
he has led the human race that walked in darkness
into the radiance of the faith
and has brought those born in slavery to ancient sin
through the waters of regeneration
to make them your adopted children.
Therefore, all creatures of heaven and earth
sing a new song in adoration,
and we, with all the host of Angels,
cry out and without end acclaim:
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts . . .


COMMUNION ANTIPHON

When the Gospel of the Man Born Blind is read:           Cf. Jn 9: 11, 38
The Lord anointed my eyes: I went, I washed,
I saw and I believed in God.

When the Gospel of the Prodigal Son is read:           Lk 15: 32
You must rejoice, my son,
for your brother was dead and has come to life;
he was lost and is found.

When another Gospel is read:           Cf. Ps 122 (121): 3-4
Jerusalem is built as a city bonded as one together.
It is there that the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord,
to praise the name of the Lord.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
O God, who enlighten everyone who comes into this world,
illuminate our hearts, we pray,
with the splendor of your grace,
that we may always ponder
what is worthy and pleasing to your majesty
and love you in all sincerity.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE
Look upon those who call to you, O Lord,
and sustain the weak;
give life by your unfailing light
to those who walk in the shadow of death,
and bring those rescued by your mercy from every evil
to reach the highest good.
Through Christ our Lord.

Monday in the Fourth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 31 (30): 7-8
As for me, I trust in the Lord.
Let me be glad and rejoice in your mercy,
for you have seen my affliction.


COLLECT
O God, who renew the world
through mysteries beyond all telling,
grant, we pray,
that your Church may be guided by your eternal design
and not be deprived of your help in this present age.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS (Or Alternative Readings for the Fourth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Is 65:17-21
Ps 30:2 and 4,5-6,11-12a and 13b R. I will praise you, O Lord, for you have rescued me. Seek good and not evil so that you may live,
and the LORD will be with you. - Amos 5:14
John 4:43-54


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
May we receive O Lord, we pray,
the effects of this offering dedicated to you,
so that we may be cleansed from old earthly ways
and be renewed by growth in heavenly life.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Ez 36: 27
I will place my spirit within you
and make you walk according to my laws;
and my judgments you shall keep and observe, says the Lord.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May your holy gifts, O Lord, we pray,
give us life by making us new,
and, by sanctifying us, lead us to things eternal.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Renew your people within and without, O Lord,
and, since it is your will
that they be unhindered by bodily delights,
give them, we pray,
perseverance in their spiritual intent.
Through Christ our Lord.

Tuesday in the Fourth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Is 55: 1
All who are thirsty, come to the waters, says the Lord.
Though you have no money, come and drink with joy.


COLLECT
May the venerable exercises of holy devotion
shape the hearts of your faithful, O Lord,
to welcome worthily the Paschal Mystery
and proclaim the praises of your salvation.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.

READINGS(Or Alternative Readings for the Fourth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Ezekiel 47:1-9, 12
Ps 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9 R. The Lord of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.
A clean heart create for me, O God;
give me back the joy of your salvation. - Psalm 51:12a, 14a
John 5:1-3, 5-16


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
We offer to you, O Lord,
these gifts which you yourself have bestowed;
may they attest to your care as Creator
for this our mortal life,
and effect in us the healing
that brings us immortality.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Cf. Ps 23 (22): 1-2
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Fresh and green are the pastures where he gives me repose,
near restful waters he leads me.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Purify our minds, O Lord, we pray,
and renew them with this heavenly Sacrament,
that we may find help for our bodies
now and likewise in times to come.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Grant, O merciful God,
that your people may remain always devoted to you
and may constantly receive from your kindness
whatever is for their good.
Through Christ our Lord.

Wednesday in the Fourth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Ps 69 (68): 14
I pray to you, O Lord, for a time of your favor.
In your great mercy, answer me, O God,
with your salvation that never fails.


COLLECT
O God, who reward the merits of the just
and offer pardon to sinners who do penance,
have mercy, we pray, on those who call upon you,
that the admission of our guilt
may serve to obtain your pardon for our sins.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS (Or Alternative Readings for the Fourth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Isaiah 49:8-15
Ps 145:8-9, 13-14, 17-18  R. The Lord is gracious and merciful.
I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord;
whoever believes in me will never die. - John 11:25a, 26
John 5:17-30


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
May the power of this sacrifice, O Lord, we pray,
mercifully wipe away what is old in us,
and increase in us grace of salvation and newness of life.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Jn 3: 17
God did not send his Son into the world
to judge the world,
but that the world might be saved through him.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May your heavenly gifts, O Lord, we pray,
which you bestow as a heavenly remedy on your people,
not bring judgment to those who receive them.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
May your servants be shielded, O Lord,
by the protection of your loving-kindness,
that, doing what is good in this world,
they may reach you, their highest good.
Through Christ our Lord.

Thursday in the Fourth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 105 (104): 3-4
Let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice;
turn to the Lord and his strength;
constantly seek his face.


COLLECT
We invoke your mercy in humble prayer, O Lord,
that you may cause us, your servants,
corrected by penance and schooled by good works,
to persevere sincerely in your commands
and come safely to the paschal festivities.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS(Or Alternative Readings for the Fourth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Exodus 32:7-14
Ps 106:19-20, 21-22, 23  R. Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.
God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son,
so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life. - John 11:25a, 26
John 5:31-47


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Grant, we pray, almighty God,
that what we offer in sacrifice
may cleanse us in our frailty from every evil
and always grant us your protection.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Jer 31: 33
I will place my law within them, and I will write it upon their hearts;
and I will be their God, and they shall be my people, says the Lord.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May this Sacrament we have received purify us, we pray, O Lord,
and grant your servants freedom from all blame,
that those bound by a guilty conscience
may glory in the fullness of heavenly remedy.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
O God, protector of all who hope in you,
bless your people, keep them safe,
defend them, prepare them,
that, free from sin and safe from the enemy,
they may persevere always in your love.
Through Christ our Lord.

Friday in the Fourth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 54 (53): 3-4
O God, save me by your name;
by your power, defend my cause.
O God, hear my prayer;
give ear to the words of my mouth.


COLLECT
O God, who have prepared
fitting helps for us in our weakness,
grant, we pray, that we may receive
their healing effects with joy
and reflect them in a holy way of life.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS (Or Alternative Readings for the Fourth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Wisdom 2:1, 12-22
Ps 34:17-18, 19-20, 21, 23  R. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.
One does not live on bread alone,
but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God - Matt 4:4b
John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
May this sacrifice, almighty God,
cleanse us by its mighty power
and lead us to approach its source
with ever greater purity.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Eph 1: 7
In Christ, we have redemption by his Blood,
and forgiveness of our sins,
in accord with the riches of his grace.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Grant, we pray, O Lord,
that, as we pass from old to new,
so, with former ways left behind,
we may be renewed in holiness of mind.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Look upon your servants, O Lord,
and in your goodness protect with heavenly assistance
those who trust in your mercy.
Through Christ our Lord.

Saturday in the Fourth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 18 (17): 5, 7
The waves of death rose about me;
the pains of the netherworld surrounded me.
In my anguish I called to the Lord,
and from his holy temple he heard my voice.


COLLECT
May the working of your mercy, O Lord, we pray,
direct our hearts aright,
for without your grace
we cannot find favor in your sight.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS (Or Alternative Readings for the Fourth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Jer 11:18-20
Ps 7:2-3, 9bc-10,11-12 R. O Lord, my God, in you I take refuge.
Blessed are they who have kept the word with a generous heart
and yield a harvest through perseverance. - Cf. Lk 8:15
John 7:40-53


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Be pleased, O Lord, we pray,
with these oblations you receive from our hands,
and, even when our wills are defiant,
constrain them mercifully to turn to you.
Through Christ our Lord.


PREFACE OF LENT
Preface I
Preface II
Preface III
Preface IV


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Cf. 1 Pt 1: 18-19
By the precious Blood of Christ,
the Blood of a spotless and unblemished Lamb,
we have been redeemed.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May your holy gifts purify us, O Lord, we pray,
and by their working render us fully pleasing to you.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Look upon your people, O Lord,
and, as they draw near to the coming festivities,
bestow upon them abundance of heavenly grace,
that, helped by the consolations of this world,
they may be impelled more readily
towards higher goods that cannot be seen.
Through Christ our Lord.




ALTERNATE READINGS FOR THE FOURTH WEEK OF LENT
The following readings may be used instead of the proper ones any day this week, especially in Years B and C when the gospel of the man born blind is not read on the Fourth Sunday of Lent.
FIRST READING:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM:
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:

GOSPEL:
Micah 7:7-9
Ps 27:1,7-8a,8b-9abc,13-14 The Lord is my light and my salvation.
I am the light of the world, says the Lord;
whoever follows me will have the light of life. - John 8:12
John 9:1-41


FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT



In the Dioceses of the United States, the practice of covering crosses and images throughout the church from this Sunday may be observed. Crosses remain covered until the end of the Celebration of the Lord's Passion on Good Friday, but images remain covered until the beginning of the Easter Vigil.

On this Sunday is celebrated the third scrutiny in preparation for the Baptism of the catechumens who are to be admitted to the Sacraments of Christian Initiation at the Easter Vigil, using the proper prayers and intercessions as given below.



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 43 (42): 1-2
Give me justice, O God,
and plead my cause against a nation that is faithless.
From the deceitful and cunning rescue me,
for you, O God, are my strength.

The Gloria in excelsis (Glory to God in the highest) is not said.


COLLECT
By your help, we beseech you, Lord our God,
may we walk eagerly in that same charity
with which, out of love for the world,
your Son handed himself over to death.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS

VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:          Cf. Jn 4:42, 15
I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord;
whoever believes in me will never die.

Ego sum resurrectio et vita, dicit Dominus; qui credit in me non morietur in aeternum.
Year A
Ezekiel 37:12-14
Ps 130:1-2,3-4,5-6,7-8
R./ With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.
Rom 8:8-11
Jn 11:1-45
Year B
Jer 31:31-34
Ps 51:3-4,12-15
R./ Create a clean heart in me, O God.
Heb 5:7-9
Jn 12:20-33
Year C
Is 43:16-21
Ps 126:1-2,2-3,4-5,6
R./ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.
Phil 3:8-14
Jn 8:1-11


The Creed is said.


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Hear us, almighty God,
and, having instilled in your servants
the teachings of the Christian faith,
graciously purify them
by the working of this sacrifice.
Through Christ our Lord.

When the Gospel of Lazarus is not read, Preface I or II of Lent, is used
Preface I
Preface II


PREFACE          Lazarus
V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with your spirit.
V. Lift up your hearts.
R. We lift them up to the Lord.
V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
R. It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks,
Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God,
through Christ our Lord.
For as true man he wept for Lazarus his friend
and as eternal God raised him from the tomb,
just as, taking pity on the human race,
he leads us by sacred mysteries to new life.
Through him the host of Angels adores your majesty
and rejoices in your presence for ever.
May our voices, we pray, join with theirs
in one chorus of exultant praise, as we acclaim:
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts . . .


COMMUNION ANTIPHON

When the Gospel of Lazarus is read:           Cf. Jn 11: 26
Everyone who lives and believes in me
will not die for ever, says the Lord.

When the Gospel of the Adulterous Woman is read:           Jn 8: 10-11
Has no one condemned you, woman? No one, Lord.
Neither shall I condemn you. From now on, sin no more.

When another Gospel is read:           Jn 12: 24
Amen, Amen I say to you: Unless a grain of wheat
falls to the ground and dies, it remains a single grain.
But if it dies, it bears much fruit.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
We pray, almighty God,
that we may always be counted among the members of Christ,
in whose Body and Blood we have communion.
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE
Bless, O Lord, your people,
who long for the gift of your mercy,
and grant that what, at your prompting, they desire
they may receive by your generous gift.
Through Christ our Lord.

Monday in the Fifth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 56 (55): 2
Have mercy on me, O God, for people assail me;
they fight me all day long and oppress me.


COLLECT
O God, by whose wondrous grace
we are enriched with every blessing,
grant us so to pass from former ways to newness of life,
that we may be made ready for the glory of the heavenly Kingdom.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.

READINGS (Or Alternative Readings for the Fifth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:


GOSPEL:
GOSPEL: (Year C)
Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62 or 13:41-62

Psalms 23:1-3, 3-4, 5, 6
R. Even though I walk in the dark valley, I fear no evil; for you are at my side.

I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked man, says the Lord,
but rather in his conversion, that he may live. - Cf. Ez 33:11

John 8:1-11
John 8:12-20 (when Jn 8:1-11 is read on the preceding Sunday)



PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Grant, we pray, O Lord,
that, preparing to celebrate the holy mysteries,
we may bring before you as the fruit of bodily penance
a joyful purity of heart.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface I of the Passion of the Lord


COMMUNION ANTIPHON
When the Gospel of the Adulterous Woman is read:           Jn 8: 10-11
Has no one condemned you, woman? No one, Lord.
Neither shall I condemn you. From now on, sin no more.

When another Gospel is read:           Jn 8: 12
I am the light of the world, says the Lord;
whoever follows me will not walk in the darkness,
but will have the light of life.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Strengthened by the blessing of your Sacraments, we pray, O Lord,
that through them we may constantly be cleansed of our faults
and, by following Christ,
hasten our steps upward toward you.
Through Christ our Lord.

PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Set free from their sins, O Lord, we pray,
the people who call upon you,
that, living a holy way of life,
they may be kept safe from every trial.
Through Christ our Lord.

Tuesday in the Fifth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Ps 27 (26): 14
Wait for the Lord; be strong;
be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord!


COLLECT
Grant us, we pray, O Lord,
perseverance in obeying your will,
that in our days the people dedicated to your service
may grow in both merit and number.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS (Or Alternative Readings for the Fifth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:


GOSPEL:
Numbers 21:4-9

Psalms 102:2-3, 16-18, 19-21
R. O Lord, hear my prayer, and let my cry come to you.

The seed is the word of God, Christ is the sower;
all who come to him will live for ever.

John 8:21-30


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
We offer you, O Lord, the sacrifice of conciliation,
that, being moved to compassion,
you may both pardon our offenses
and direct our wavering hearts.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface I of the Passion of the Lord


COMMUNION ANTIPHON Jn 12: 32
When I am lifted up from the earth,
I will draw all to myself, says the Lord.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Grant, we pray, almighty God,
that, ever seeking what is divine,
we may always be worthy
to approach these heavenly gifts.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
O God, who choose to show mercy not anger
to those who hope in you,
grant that your faithful may weep, as they should,
for the evil they have done,
and so merit the grace of your consolation.
Through Christ our Lord.

Wednesday in the Fifth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 18 (17): 48-49
My deliverer from angry nations, you set me above my assailants;
you saved me from the violent man, O Lord.


COLLECT
Enlighten, O God of compassion,
the hearts of your children, sanctified by penance,
and in your kindness
grant those you stir to a sense of devotion
a gracious hearing when they cry out to you.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS (Or Alternative Readings for the Fifth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:


GOSPEL:
Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95

Daniel 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56
R. Glory and praise forever.

Blessed are they who have kept the word with a generous heart
and yield a harvest through perseverance. - Cf. Lk 8:15

John 8:31-42


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Receive back, O Lord, these sacrificial offerings,
which you have given to be offered
to the honor of your name,
and grant that they may become remedies for our healing.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface I of the Passion of the Lord


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Col 1: 13-14
God has brought us to the kingdom of his beloved Son,
in whom we have redemption through his Blood,
the forgiveness of sins.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May the mysteries we have received, O Lord,
bring us heavenly medicine,
that they may purge all evil from our heart
and strengthen us with eternal protection.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Attend, almighty God,
to the prayers of your people,
and, as you endow them
with confident hope in your compassion,
let them feel as ever the effects of your mercy.
Through Christ our Lord.

Thursday in the Fifth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Heb 9: 15
Christ is mediator of a New Covenant,
so that by means of his death, those who are called
may receive the promise of an eternal inheritance.


COLLECT
Be near, O Lord, to those who plead before you,
and look kindly on those who place their hope in your mercy,
that, cleansed from the stain of their sins,
they may persevere in holy living
and be made full heirs of your promise.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS (Or Alternative Readings for the Fifth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:


GOSPEL:
Genesis 17:3-9

Psalms 105:4-5, 6-7, 8-9
R. The Lord remembers his covenant forever.

If today you hear his voice,
harden not your hearts. - Ps. 95:8

John 8:51-59


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Look with favor, Lord, we pray,
on these sacrificial offerings,
that they may profit our conversion
and the salvation of all the world.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface I of the Passion of the Lord


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Rom 8: 32
God did not spare his own Son, but handed him over for us all;
with him, he has given us all things.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Nourished by your saving gifts,
we beseech your mercy, Lord,
that by this same Sacrament,
with which you feed us in the present age,
you may make us partakers of life eternal.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Be gracious to your people, Lord, we pray,
that, as from day to day they reject what does not please you,
they may be filled instead with delight at your commands.
Through Christ our Lord.

Friday in the Fifth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Ps 31 (30): 10, 16, 18
Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am in distress.
Deliver me from the hands of my enemies and those who pursue me.
O Lord, let me never be put to shame, for I call on you.


COLLECT
Pardon the offenses of your peoples, we pray, O Lord,
and in your goodness set us free
from the bonds of the sins
we have committed in our weakness.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.

Or:

O God, who in this season
give your Church the grace
to imitate devoutly the Blessed Virgin Mary
in contemplating the Passion of Christ,
grant, we pray, through her intercession,
that we may cling more firmly each day
to your Only Begotten Son
and come at last to the fullness of his grace.
Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS (Or Alternative Readings for the Fifth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:


GOSPEL:
Jeremiah 20:10-13

Psalms 18:2-3a, 3bc-4, 5-6, 7
R. In my distress I called upon the Lord, and he heard my voice.

Your words, O Lord, are spirit and life;
you have the words of everlasting life.- Cf. Jn 6:63c, 68c

John 10:31-42


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Grant, O merciful God, that we may be worthy
to serve ever fittingly at your altars,
and there to be saved by constant participation.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface I of the Passion of the Lord


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           1 Pt 2: 24
Jesus bore our sins in his own body on the cross,
so that dead to sin, we might live for righteousness.
By his wounds we have been healed.

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
May the unfailing protection
of the sacrifice we have received
never leave us, O Lord,
and may it always drive far from us
all that would do us harm.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Grant, we pray, almighty God,
that your servants, who seek the grace of your protection,
may be free from every evil
and serve you in peace of mind.
Through Christ our Lord.

Saturday in the Fifth Week of Lent



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 22 (21): 20, 7
O Lord, do not stay afar off;
my strength, make haste to help me!
For I am a worm and no man,
scorned by everyone, despised by the people.


COLLECT
O God, who have made all those reborn in Christ
a chosen race and a royal priesthood,
grant us, we pray, the grace to will and to do what you command,
that the people called to eternal life
may be one in the faith of their hearts
and the homage of their deeds.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS (Or Alternative Readings for the Fifth Week of Lent)
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:


GOSPEL:
Ezekiel 37:21-28

Jeremiah 31:10, 11-12abcd, 13
R. The Lord will guard us, as a shepherd guards his flock.

Cast away from you all the crimes you have committed, says the Lord,
and make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. - Ez. 18:31

John 11:45-56


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
May the gifts we offer from our fasting
be acceptable to you, O Lord, we pray,
and, as an expiation for our sins,
may they make us worthy of your grace
and lead us to what you promise for eternity.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface I of the Passion of the Lord


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Cf. Jn 11: 52
Christ was handed over, to gather into one the scattered children of God.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
We entreat your majesty most humbly, O Lord,
that, as you feed us with the nourishment
which comes from the most holy Body and Blood of your Son,
so you may make us sharers of his divine nature.
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.

PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Have mercy, Lord, on your Church,
as she brings you her supplications,
and be attentive to those who incline their hearts before you:
do not allow, we pray, those you have redeemed
by the Death of your Only Begotten Son,
to be harmed by their sins or weighed down by their trials.
Through Christ our Lord.



ALTERNATIVE READINGS FOR THE FIFTH WEEK OF LENT
The following readings may be used instead of the proper ones any day this week, especially in Years B and C when the Gospel of Lazarus is not read on the Fifth Sunday of Lent.
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:

VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:



GOSPEL:
2 Kgs 4:18b-21,32-37

Ps 17:1, 6-7, 8b and 15 Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.

Ego sum ressuréctio et vita, dicit Dóminus; qui credit in me non moriétur in ætérnum.
I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord;
whoever believes in me will never die. - John 11:25a, 26

John 11:1-45

HOLY WEEK


PALM SUNDAY OF THE PASSION OF THE LORD


1. On this day the Church recalls the entrance of Christ the Lord into Jerusalem to accomplish his Paschal Mystery. Accordingly, the memorial of this entrance of the Lord takes place at all Masses, by means of the Procession or the Solemn Entrance before the principal Mass or the Simple Entrance before other Masses. The Solemn Entrance, but not the Procession, may be repeated before other Masses that are usually celebrated with a large gathering of people.

It is desirable that, where neither the Procession nor the Solemn Entrance can take place, there be a sacred celebration of the Word of God on the messianic entrance and on the Passion of the Lord, either on Saturday evening or on Sunday at a convenient time.

The Commemoration of the Lord's Entrance into Jerusalem


First Form: The Procession

2. At an appropriate hour, a gathering takes place at a smaller church or other suitable place other than inside the church to which the procession will go. The faithful hold branches in their hands.

3. Wearing the red sacred vestments as for Mass, the Priest and the Deacon, accompanied by other ministers, approach the place where the people are gathered. Instead of the chasuble, the Priest may wear a cope, which he leaves aside when the procession is over, and puts on a chasuble.

4. Meanwhile, the following antiphon or another appropriate chant is sung.


ANTIPHON           Mt 21: 9
Hosanna to the Son of David;
blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, the King of Israel.
Hosanna in the highest.

5. After this, the Priest and people sign themselves, while the Priest says: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Then he greets the people in the usual way. A brief address is given, in which the faithful are invited to participate actively and consciously in the celebration of this day, in these or similar words:

Dear brethren (brothers and sisters),
since the beginning of Lent until now
we have prepared our hearts by penance and charitable works.
Today we gather together to herald with the whole Church
the beginning of the celebration
of our Lord's Paschal Mystery,
that is to say, of his Passion and Resurrection.
For it was to accomplish this mystery
that he entered his own city of Jerusalem.
Therefore, with all faith and devotion,
let us commemorate
the Lord's entry into the city for our salvation,
following in his footsteps,
so that, being made by his grace partakers of the Cross,
we may have a share also in his Resurrection and in his life.

6. After the address, the Priest says one of the following prayers with hands extended.

Let us pray.
Almighty ever-living God,
sanctify + these branches with your blessing,
that we, who follow Christ the King in exultation,
may reach the eternal Jerusalem through him.
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
R. Amen.

Or:

Increase the faith of those who place their hope in you, O God,
and graciously hear the prayers of those who call on you,
that we, who today hold high these branches
to hail Christ in his triumph,
may bear fruit for you by good works accomplished in him.
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
R. Amen.

He sprinkles the branches with holy water without saying anything.

7. Then a Deacon or, if there is no Deacon, a Priest, proclaims in the usual way the Gospel concerning the Lord's entrance according to one of the four Gospels. If appropriate, incense may be used.


YEAR A          Mt 21:1-11

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord

When Jesus and the disciples drew near Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, "Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find an ass tethered, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them here to me. And if anyone should say anything to you, reply, 'The master has need of them.' Then he will send them at once." This happened so that what had been spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled: Say to daughter Zion, "Behold, your king comes to you, meek and riding on an ass, and on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden." The disciples went and did as Jesus had ordered them. They brought the ass and the colt and laid their cloaks over them, and he sat upon them. The very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and strewed them on the road. The crowds preceding him and those following kept crying out and saying: "Hosanna to the Son of David; blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord; hosanna in the highest." And when he entered Jerusalem the whole city was shaken and asked, "Who is this?" And the crowds replied, "This is Jesus the prophet, from Nazareth in Galilee."


YEAR B          Mark 11:1-10 (First Option)

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark
When Jesus and his disciples drew near to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples and said to them, "Go into the village opposite you, and immediately on entering it, you will find a colt tethered on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone should say to you, 'Why are you doing this?' reply, 'The Master has need of it and will send it back here at once.' " So they went off and found a colt tethered at a gate outside on the street, and they untied it. Some of the bystanders said to them, "What are you doing, untying the colt?" They answered them just as Jesus had told them to, and they permitted them to do it. So they brought the colt to Jesus and put their cloaks over it. And he sat on it. Many people spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut from the fields. Those preceding him as well as those following kept crying out: "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is to come! Hosanna in the highest!"

Or:

John 12:12-16 (2nd Option)

A reading from the holy Gospel according to John.
When the great crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, they took palm branches and went out to meet him, and cried out: "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, the king of Israel." Jesus found an ass and sat upon it, as is written: Fear no more, O daughter Zion; see, your king comes, seated upon an ass's colt. His disciples did not understand this at first, but when Jesus had been glorified they remembered that these things were written about him and that they had done this for him.


YEAR C          Luke 19:28-40

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke.
Jesus proceeded on his journey up to Jerusalem. As he drew near to Bethphage and Bethany at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples. He said, "Go into the village opposite you, and as you enter it you will find a colt tethered on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it here. And if anyone should ask you, 'Why are you untying it?' you will answer, 'The Master has need of it.' " So those who had been sent went off and found everything just as he had told them. And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, "Why are you untying this colt?" They answered, "The Master has need of it." So they brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks over the colt, and helped Jesus to mount. As he rode along, the people were spreading their cloaks on the road; and now as he was approaching the slope of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of his disciples began to praise God aloud with joy for all the mighty deeds they had seen. They proclaimed: "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. Peace in heaven and glory in the highest." Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples." He said in reply, "I tell you, if they keep silent, the stones will cry out!"


8. After the Gospel, a brief homily may be given. Then, to begin the Procession, an invitation may be given by a Priest or a Deacon or a lay minister, in these or similar words:

Dear brethren (brothers and sisters),
like the crowds who acclaimed Jesus in Jerusalem,
let us go forth in peace.

Or:

Let us go forth in peace.

In this latter case, all respond:

In the name of Christ. Amen.

9. The Procession to the church where Mass will be celebrated then sets off in the usual way. If incense is used, the thurifer goes first, carrying a thurible with burning incense, then an acolyte or another minister, carrying a cross decorated with palm branches according to local custom, between two ministers with lighted candles. Then follow the Deacon carrying the Book of the Gospels, the Priest with the ministers, and, after them, all the faithful carrying branches.

As the Procession moves forward, the following or other suitable chants in honor of Christ the King are sung by the choir and people.

ANTIPHON 1
The children of the Hebrews, carrying olive branches,
went to meet the Lord, crying out and saying:
Hosanna in the highest.

If appropriate, this antiphon is repeated between the strophes of the following Psalm.

PSALM 24 (23)
The LORD's is the earth and its fullness, *
the world, and those who dwell in it.
It is he who set it on the seas;*
on the rivers he made it firm.

(The antiphon is repeated)

Who shall climb the mountain of the LORD?*
The clean of hands and pure of heart,
whose soul is not set on vain things, †
who has not sworn deceitful words.*

(The antiphon is repeated)

Blessings from the LORD shall he receive,*
and right reward from the God who saves him.
Such are the people who seek him,*
who seek the face of the God of Jacob.

(The antiphon is repeated)

O gates, lift high your heads, †
grow higher, ancient doors.*
Let him enter, the king of glory!
Who is this king of glory?*
The LORD, the mighty, the valiant;
the LORD, the valiant in war.

(The antiphon is repeated)

O gates, lift high your heads; †
grow higher, ancient doors.*
Let him enter, the king of glory!
Who is this king of glory?*
He, the LORD of hosts,
he is the king of glory.

(The antiphon is repeated)

ANTIPHON 2
The children of the Hebrews spread their garments on the road,
crying out and saying: Hosanna to the Son of David;
blesssed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
If appropriate, this antiphon is repeated between the strophes of the following Psalm.

PSALM 47 (46)
All peoples, clap your hands.*
Cry to God with shouts of joy!
For the LORD, the Most high, is awesome,*
the great king over all the earth.

(The antiphon is repeated)

He humbles peoples under us*
and nations under our feet.
Our heritage he chose for us,*
the pride of Jacob whom he loves.
God goes up with shouts of joy.*
The LORD goes up with trumpet blast.

(The antiphon is repeated)

Sing praise for God; sing praise!*
Sing praise our king; sing praise!
God is king of all earth.*
Sing praise with all your skill.

(The antiphon is repeated)

God reigns over the nations.*
God sits upon his holy throne.
The princes of the peoples are assembled
with the people of the God of Abraham. †
The rulers of the earth belong to God,*
who is greatly exalted.

(The antiphon is repeated)

HYMN TO CHRIST THE KING

Chorus:

Glory and honor and praise be to you, Christ, King and Redeemer,
to whom young children cried out loving Hosannas with joy.

All repeat: Glory and honor . . .
Chorus:

Israel's King are you, King David's magnificent offspring;
you are the ruler who come blest in the name of the Lord.

All repeat: Glory and honor . . .
Chorus:

Heavenly hosts on high unite in singing your praises;
men and women on earth and all creation join in.

All repeat: Glory and honor . . .
Chorus:

Bearing branches of palm, Hebrews came crowding to greet you;
see how with prayers and hymns we come to pay you our vows.

All repeat: Glory and honor . . .
Chorus:

They offered gifts of praise to you, so near to your Passion;
see how we sing this song now to you reigning on high.

All repeat: Glory and honor . . .
Chorus:

Those you were pleased to accept; now accept our gifts of devotion,
good and merciful King, lover of all that is good.

All repeat: Glory and honor . . .

10. As the procession enters the church, there is sung the following responsory or another chant, which should speak of the Lord's entrance.

R. As the Lord entered the holy city, the children of the Hebrews proclaimed the resurrection of life. *
Waving their branches of palm, they cried: Hosanna in the Highest.

V. When the people heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, they went out to meet him. *
Waving their branches.

11. When the Priest arrives at the altar, he venerates it and, if appropriate, incenses it. Then he goes to the chair, where he puts aside the cope, if he has worn one, and puts on the chasuble. Omitting the other Introductory Rites of the Mass and, if appropriate, the Kyrie (Lord, have mercy), he says the Collect of the Mass, and then continues the Mass in the usual way.

Second Form: The Solemn Entrance

12. When a procession outside the church cannot take place, the entrance of the Lord is celebrated inside the church by means of a Solemn Entrance before the principal Mass.


13. Holding branches in their hands, the faithful gather either outside, in front of the church door, or inside the church itself. The Priest and ministers and a representative group of the faithful go to a suitable place in the church outside the sanctuary, where at least the greater part of the faithful can see the rite.

14. While the Priest approaches the appointed place, the antiphon Hosanna or another appropriate chant is sung. Then the blessing of branches and the proclamation of the Gospel of the Lord's entrance into Jerusalem take place as above (nos. 5-7). After the Gospel, the Priest processes solemnly with the ministers and the representative group of the faithful through the church to the sanctuary, while the responsory As the Lord entered (no. 10) or another appropriate chant is sung.

15. Arriving at the altar, the Priest venerates it. He then goes to the chair and, omitting the Introductory Rites of the Mass and, if appropriate, the Kyrie (Lord, have mercy), he says the Collect of the Mass, and then continues the Mass in the usual way.

Third Form: The Simple Entrance

16. At all other Masses of this Sunday at which the Solemn Entrance is not held, the memorial of the Lord's entrance into Jerusalem takes place by means of a Simple Entrance.


17. While the Priest proceeds to the altar, the with its Psalm (no. 18) or another chant on the same theme is sung. Arriving at the altar, the Priest venerates it and goes to the chair. After the Sign of the Cross, he greets the people and continues the Mass in the usual way.

At other Masses, in which singing at the entrance cannot take place, the Priest, as soon as he has arrived at the altar and venerated it, greets the people, reads the Entrance Antiphon , and continues the Mass in the usual way.


18. ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Jn 12: 1, 12-13; Ps 24 (23): 9-10
Six days before the Passover,
when the Lord came into the city of Jerusalem,
the children ran to meet him;
in their hands they carried palm branches
and with a loud voice cried out:
*Hosanna in the highest!
Blessed are you, who have come in your abundant mercy!
O gates, lift high your heads;
grow higher, ancient doors.
Let him enter, the king of glory!
Who is this king of glory?
He, the Lord of hosts, he is the king of glory.
*Hosanna in the highest!
Blessed are you, who have come in your abundant mercy!

At The Mass

19. After the Procession or Solemn Entrance the Priest begins the Mass with the Collect.

COLLECT
Almighty ever-living God,
who as an example of humility for the human race to follow
caused our Savior to take flesh and submit to the Cross,
graciously grant that we may heed his lesson of patient suffering
and so merit a share in his Resurrection.
Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.

The narrative of the Lord's Passion is read without candles and without incense, with no greeting or signing of the book. It is read by a Deacon or, if there is no Deacon, by a Priest. It may also be read by readers, with the part of Christ, if possible, reserved to a Priest.

Deacons, but not others, ask for the blessing of the Priest before singing the Passion, as at other times before the Gospel.



READINGS

VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:          Phil 2:8-9
Christ became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross,
Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name.

Christus factus est pro nobis obœdiens usque ad mortem autem crucis.Propter quod et Deus exaltávit illum: et dedit illi nomen quod est super omne nomen.
Year A
Is 50:4-7
Ps 22:8-9,17-20,23-24
R:/ My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
Phil 2:6-11
Mt 26:14-27:66
Year B
Is 50:4-7
Ps 22:8-9,17-20,23-24
R:/ My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
Phil 2:6-11
Mk 14:1-15:47
Year C
Is 50:4-7
Ps 22:8-9,17-20,23-24
R:/ My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?
Phil 2:6-11
Lk 22:14-23:56 or 23:1-49

After the narrative of the Passion, a brief homily should take place, if appropriate. A period of silence may also be observed.

The Creed is said, and the Universal Prayer takes place.


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Through the Passion of your Only Begotten Son, O Lord,
may our reconciliation with you be near at hand,
so that, though we do not merit it by our own deeds,
yet by this sacrifice made once for all,
we may feel already the effects of your mercy.
Through Christ our Lord.

PREFACE           The Passion of the Lord

V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with your spirit.
V. Lift up your hearts.
R. We lift them up to the Lord.
V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
R. It is right and just.
It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks,
Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God,
through Christ our Lord.
For though innocent he suffered willingly for sinners
and accepted unjust condemnation to save the guilty.
His Death has washed away our sins,
and his Resurrection has purchased our justification.
And so, with all the Angels,
we praise you, as in joyful celebration we, too, acclaim:
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts . . .

COMMUNION ANTIPHON Mt 26: 42
Father, if this chalice cannot pass without my drinking it,
your will be done.

PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Nourished with these sacred gifts,
we humbly beseech you, O Lord,
that, just as through the death of your Son
you have brought us to hope for what we believe,
so by his Resurrection
you may lead us to where you call.
Through Christ our Lord.

PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE
Look, we pray, O Lord, on this your family,
for whom our Lord Jesus Christ
did not hesitate to be delivered into the hands of the wicked
and submit to the agony of the Cross.
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.


MONDAY OF HOLY WEEK



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 35 (34): 1-2; 140 (139): 8
Contend, O Lord, with my contenders;
fight those who fight me.
Take up your buckler and shield;
arise in my defense, Lord, my mighty help.


COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty God,
that, though in our weakness we fail,
we may be revived through the Passion of your Only Begotten Son.
Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.

READINGS
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:



GOSPEL:
Isaiah 42:1-7

Psalms 27:1, 2, 3, 13-14
R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.

Ave, Rex noster: tu solus nostros et miserátus erróres.
Hail to you, our King;
you alone are compassionate with our faults.

John 12:1-11


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Look graciously, O Lord,
upon the sacred mysteries we celebrate here,
and may what you have mercifully provided
to cancel the judgment we incurred
bear for us fruit in eternal life.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface II of the Passion of the Lord


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Cf. Ps 102 (101): 3
Do not hide your face from me in the day of my distress.
Turn your ear towards me; on the day when I call, speedily answer me.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Visit your people, O Lord, we pray,
and with ever-watchful love
look upon the hearts dedicated to you by means of these sacred mysteries,
so that under your protection
we may keep safe this remedy of eternal salvation,
which by your mercy we have received.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
May your protection, O Lord, we pray,
defend the humble
and keep ever safe those who trust in your mercy,
that they may celebrate the paschal festivities
not only with bodily observance
but above all with purity of mind.
Through Christ our Lord.


TUESDAY OF HOLY WEEK



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Ps 27 (26): 12
Do not leave me to the will of my foes, O Lord,
for false witnesses rise up against me
and they breathe out violence.


COLLECT
Almighty ever-living God,
grant us so to celebrate
the mysteries of the Lord's Passion
that we may merit to receive your pardon.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.

READINGS
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:



GOSPEL:
Isaiah 49:1-6

Psalms 71:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 15, 17
R. I will sing of your salvation.

Ave, Rex noster, Patri obœdiens; ductus es ad crucifigéndum, ut agnus mansuétus ad occisiónem.
Hail to you, our King, obedient to the Father;
you were led to your crucifixion like a gentle lamb to the slaughter.

John 13:21-33, 36-38


PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Look favorably, O Lord, we pray,
on these OFFERINGS of your family,
and to those you make partakers of these sacred gifts
grant a share in their fullness.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface II of the Passion of the Lord


COMMUNION ANTIPHON Rom 8: 32
God did not spare his own Son,
but handed him over for us all.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Nourished by your saving gifts,
we beseech your mercy, Lord,
that by this same Sacrament,
with which you have fed us in the present age
you may make us partakers of life eternal.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
May your mercy, O God,
cleanse the people that are subject to you
from all seduction of former ways
and make them capable of new holiness.
Through Christ our Lord.


WEDNESDAY OF HOLY WEEK



ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Phil 2: 10, 8, 11
At the name of Jesus, every knee should bend
of those in heaven and on the earth and under the earth,
for the Lord became obedient to death, death on a cross:
therefore Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.


COLLECT
O God, who willed your Son to submit for our sake
to the yoke of the Cross,
so that you might drive from us the power of the enemy,
grant us, your servants, to attain the grace of the resurrection.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.

READINGS
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:








GOSPEL:
Isaiah 50:4-9

Psalms 69:8-10, 21-22, 31, 33-34
R. Lord, in your great love, answer me.

Ave, Rex noster: tu solus nostros et miserátus erróres.
Hail to you, our King;
you alone are compassionate with our errors.

Or:
Ave, Rex noster, Patri obœdiens; ductus es ad crucifigéndum, ut agnus mansuétus ad occisiónem.
Hail to you, our King, obedient to the Father;
you were led to your crucifixion like a gentle lamb to the slaughter.

Matthew 26:14-25




Responsorial Psalm:



PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Receive, O Lord, we pray, the OFFERINGS made here,
and graciously grant
that, celebrating your Son's Passion in mystery,
we may experience the grace of its effects.
Through Christ our Lord.


Preface II of the Passion of the Lord


COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Mt 20: 28
The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve
and to give his life as a ransom for many.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Endow us, almighty God, with the firm conviction
that through your Son's Death in time,
to which the revered mysteries bear witness,
we may be assured of perpetual life.
Through Christ our Lord.


PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE          for optional use
Grant your faithful, O Lord, we pray,
to partake unceasingly of the paschal mysteries
and to await with longing the gifts to come,
that, persevering in the Sacraments of their rebirth,
they may be led by Lenten works to newness of life.
Through Christ our Lord.


THURSDAY OF HOLY WEEK [HOLY THURSDAY]


1. In accordance with a most ancient tradition of the Church, on this day all Masses without the people are forbidden.

The Chrism Mass

2. The blessing of the Oil of the Sick and of the Oil of Catechumens and the consecration of the Chrism are carried out by the Bishop, according to the Rite described in the Roman Pontifical, usually on this day, at a proper Mass to be celebrated during the morning.

3. If, however, it is very difficult for the clergy and the people to gather with the Bishop on this day, the Chrism Mass may be anticipated on another day, but near to Easter.

4. This Mass, which the Bishop concelebrates with his presbyterate, should be, as it were, a manifestation of the Priests' communion with their Bishop. Accordingly it is desirable that all the Priests participate in it, insofar as is possible, and during it receive Communion even under both kinds. To signify the unity of the presbyterate of the diocese, the Priests who concelebrate with the Bishop should be from different regions of the diocese.

5. In accord with traditional practice, the blessing of the Oil of the Sick takes place before the end of the Eucharistic Prayer, but the blessing of the Oil of Catechumens and the consecration of the Chrism take place after Communion. Nevertheless, for pastoral reasons, it is permitted for the entire rite of blessing to take place after the Liturgy of the Word
.


6. ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Rev 1: 6
Jesus Christ has made us into a kingdom, priests for his God and Father.
To him be glory and power for ever and ever. Amen.

The Gloria in excelsis (Glory to God in the highest) is said.


COLLECT
O God, who anointed your Only Begotten Son with the Holy Spirit
and made him Christ and Lord,
graciously grant
that, being made sharers in his consecration,
we may bear witness to your Redemption in the world.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.


READINGS
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


SECOND READING:

VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:



GOSPEL:
Isaiah 61:1-3a, 6a, 8b-9

Psalms 89:21-22, 25 and 27
R. Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

Revelation 1:5-8

Spíritus Dómini super me: evangelizáre paupéribus misit me.
The spirit of the Lord is upon me;
for he has sent me to bring glad tidings to the poor. Is 61:1 (cited in Lk 4:18)

Luke 4:16-21
8. After the reading of the Gospel, the Bishop preaches the Homily in which, taking his starting point from the text of the readings proclaimed in the Liturgy of the Word, he speaks to the people and to his Priests about priestly anointing, urging the Priests to be faithful in their office and calling on them to renew publicly their priestly promises.

Renewal of Priestly Promises

9. After the Homily, the Bishop speaks with the Priests in these or similar words.

Beloved sons,
on the anniversary of that day
when Christ our Lord conferred his priesthood
on his Apostles and on us,
are you resolved to renew
in the presence of your Bishop and God's holy people,
the promises you once made?

The Priests, all together, respond: I am.

Are you resolved to be more united with the Lord Jesus
and more closely conformed to him,
denying yourselves and confirming those promises
about sacred duties towards Christ's Church
which, prompted by love of him,
you willingly and joyfully pledged
on the day of your priestly ordination?

Priests: I am.

Are you resolved to be faithful stewards of the mysteries of God
in the Holy Eucharist and the other liturgical rites
and to discharge faithfully the sacred office of teaching,
following Christ the Head and Shepherd,
not seeking any gain,
but moved only by zeal for souls?

Priests: I am.

Then, turned towards the people, the Bishop continues:
As for you, dearest sons and daughters,
pray for your Priests,
that the Lord may pour out his gifts abundantly upon them,
and keep them faithful as ministers of Christ, the High Priest,
so that they may lead you to him,
who is the source of salvation.

People: Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us.

And pray also for me,
that I may be faithful to the apostolic office
entrusted to me in my lowliness
and that in your midst I may be made day by day
a living and more perfect image of Christ,
the Priest, the Good Shepherd,
the Teacher and the Servant of all.

People: Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us.

May the Lord keep us all in his charity
and lead all of us,
shepherds and flock,
to eternal life.

All: Amen.


10. The Creed is not said.


11. PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
May the power of this sacrifice, O Lord, we pray,
mercifully wipe away what is old in us
and increase in us grace of salvation and newness of life.
Through Christ our Lord.


12. PREFACE          The Priesthood of Christ and the Ministry of Priests.
V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with your spirit.
V. Lift up your hearts.
R. We lift them up to the Lord.
V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
R. It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks,
Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God.

For by the anointing of the Holy Spirit
you made your Only Begotten Son
High Priest of the new and eternal covenant,
and by your wondrous design were pleased to decree
that his one Priesthood should continue in the Church.

For Christ not only adorns with a royal priesthood
the people he has made his own,
but with a brother's kindness he also chooses men
to become sharers in his sacred ministry
through the laying on of hands.

They are to renew in his name
the sacrifice of human redemption,
to set before your children the paschal banquet,
to lead your holy people in charity,
to nourish them with the word
and strengthen them with the Sacraments.

As they give up their lives for you
and for the salvation of their brothers and sisters,
they strive to be conformed to the image of Christ himself
and offer you a constant witness of faith and love.

And so, Lord, with all the Angels and Saints,
we, too, give you thanks as in exultation we acclaim:

Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts . . .


13.COMMUNION ANTIPHON           Ps 89 (88): 2
I will sing for ever of your mercies, O Lord;
through all ages my mouth will proclaim your fidelity.


14. PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
We beseech you, almighty God,
that those you renew by your Sacraments
may merit to become the pleasing fragrance of Christ.
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.

15. The reception of the Holy Oils may take place in individual parishes either before the celebration of the Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper or at another time that seems more appropriate.



THE SACRED PASCHAL TRIDUUM

1. In the Sacred Triduum, the Church solemnly celebrates the greatest mysteries of our redemption, keeping by means of special celebrations the memorial of her Lord, crucified, buried, and risen.

The Paschal Fast should also be kept sacred. It is to be celebrated everywhere on the Friday of the Lord's Passion and, where appropriate, prolonged also through Holy Saturday as a way of coming, with spirit uplifted, to the joys of the Lord's Resurrection.

2. For a fitting celebration of the Sacred Triduum, a sufficient number of lay ministers is required, who must be carefully instructed as to what they are to do. The singing of the people, the ministers, and the Priest Celebrant has a special importance in the celebrations of these days, for when texts are sung, they have their proper impact. Pastors should, therefore, not fail to explain to the Christian faithful, as best they can, the meaning and order of the celebrations and to prepare them for active and fruitful participation.

3. The celebrations of the Sacred Triduum are to be carried out in cathedral and parochial churches and only in those churches in which they can be performed with dignity, that is, with a good attendance of the faithful, an appropriate number of ministers, and the means to sing at least some of the parts. Consequently, it is desirable that small communities, associations, and special groups of various kinds join together in these churches to carry out the sacred celebrations in a more noble manner.


THURSDAY OF THE LORD'S SUPPER


At the Evening Mass

1. The Mass of the Lord's Supper is celebrated in the evening, at a convenient time, with the full participation of the whole local community and with all the Priests and ministers exercising their office.

2. All Priests may concelebrate even if they have already concelebrated the Chrism Mass on this day, or if they have to celebrate another Mass for the good of the Christian faithful.

3. Where a pastoral reason requires it, the local Ordinary may permit another Mass to be celebrated in churches and oratories in the evening and, in case of genuine necessity, even in the morning, but only for the faithful who are in no way able to participate in the evening Mass. Care should, nevertheless, be taken that celebrations of this sort do not take place for the advantage of private persons or special small groups, and do not prejudice the evening Mass.

4. Holy Communion may only be distributed to the faithful during Mass; but it may be brought to the sick at any hour of the day.

5. The altar may be decorated with flowers with a moderation that accords with the character of this day. The tabernacle should be entirely empty; but a sufficient amount of bread should be consecrated in this Mass for the Communion of the clergy and the people on this and the following day.


6. ENTRANCE ANTIPHON          Cf. Gal 6: 14
We should glory in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ,
in whom is our salvation, life and resurrection,
through whom we are saved and delivered.

7. The Gloria in excelsis (Glory to God in the highest) is said.

While the hymn is being sung, bells are rung, and when it is finished, they remain silent until the Gloria in excelsis of the Easter Vigil, unless, if appropriate, the Diocesan Bishop has decided otherwise. Likewise, during this same period, the organ and other musical instruments may be used
only so as to support the singing.



8. COLLECT
O God, who have called us to participate
in this most sacred Supper,
in which your Only Begotten Son,
when about to hand himself over to death,
entrusted to the Church a sacrifice new for all eternity,
the banquet of his love,
grant, we pray,
that we may draw from so great a mystery,
the fullness of charity and of life.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.

READINGS
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


SECOND READING:

VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:



GOSPEL:
Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14

Psalms 116:12-13, 15-16, 17-18
R. Our blessing-cup is a communion with the blood of Christ.

1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Mandátum novum do vobis, dicit Dóminus, ut diligitátis ínvicem, sicut dílexi vos.
I give you a new commandment, says the Lord:
love one another as I have loved you. John 13:34

John 13:1-15


9. After the proclamation of the Gospel, the Priest gives a homily in which light is shed on the principal mysteries that are commemorated in this Mass, namely, the institution of the Holy Eucharist and of the priestly Order, and the commandment of the Lord concerning fraternal charity.

The Washing of Feet

10. After the Homily, where a pastoral reason suggests it, the Washing of Feet follows.

11. The men who have been chosen are led by the ministers to seats prepared in a suitable place. Then the Priest (removing his chasuble if necessary) goes to each one, and, with the help of the ministers, pours water over each one's feet and then dries them.

12. Meanwhile some of the following antiphons or other appropriate chants are sung.

ANTIPHON 1           Cf. Jn 13: 4,5,15
After the Lord had risen from supper,
he poured water into a basin
and began to wash the feet of his disciples:
he left them this example.

ANTIPHON 2           Cf. Jn 13: 12,13,15
The Lord Jesus, after eating supper with his disciples,
washed their feet and said to them:
Do you know what I, your Lord and Master, have done for you?
I have given you an example, that you should do likewise.

ANTIPHON 3           Jn 13: 6,7,8
Lord, are you to wash my feet? Jesus said to him in answer:
If I do not wash your feet, you will have no share with me.

V. So he came to Simon Peter and Peter said to him:
- Lord.
V. What I am doing, you do not know for now,
but later you will come to know.
- Lord.

ANTIPHON 4           Cf. Jn 13: 14
If I, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet,
how much more should you wash each other's feet?

ANTIPHON 5           Jn 13: 35
This is how all will know that you are my disciples:
if you have love for one another.
V. Jesus said to his disciples:
- This is how.

ANTIPHON 6           Jn 13: 34
I give you a new commandment,
that you love one another
as I have loved you, says the Lord.

ANTIPHON 7           1 Cor 13:13
Let faith, hope and charity, these three, remain among you,
but the greatest of these is charity.
V. Now faith, hope and charity, these three, remain;
but the greatest of these is charity.
- Let.

13. After the Washing of Feet, the Priest washes and dries his hands, puts the chasuble back on, and returns to the chair, and from there he directs the Universal Prayer.

The Creed is not said.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist

14. At the beginning of the Liturgy of the Eucharist, there may be a procession of the faithful in which gifts for the poor may be presented with the bread and wine.

Meanwhile the following, or another appropriate chant, is sung.

Ant. Where true charity is dwelling, God is present there.
V. By the love of Christ we have been brought together:
V. let us find in him our gladness and our pleasure;
V. may we love him and revere him, God the living,
V. and in love respect each other with sincere hearts.
Ant. Where true charity is dwelling, God is present there.
V. So when we are gathered all together,
V. let us strive to keep our minds free of division;
V. may there be an end to malice, strife and quarrels,
V. and let Christ our God be dwelling here among us.
Ant. Where true charity is dwelling, God is present there.
V. May your face thus be our vision, bright in glory,
V. Christ our God, with all the blessed Saints in heaven:
V. such delight is pure and faultless, joy unbounded,
V. which endures through countless ages world without end. Amen.


15.PRAYER OVER THE OFFERINGS
Grant us, O Lord, we pray,
that we may participate worthily in these mysteries,
for whenever the memorial of this sacrifice is celebrated
the work of our redemption is accomplished.
Through Christ our Lord.

16. PREFACE:           The Sacrifice and Sacrament of Christ.

V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with your spirit.
V. Lift up your hearts.
R. We lift them up to the Lord.
V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
R. It is right and just.

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation,
always and everywhere to give you thanks,
Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God,
through Christ our Lord.

For he is the true and eternal Priest,
who instituted the pattern of an everlasting sacrifice
and was the first to offer himself as the saving Victim,
commanding us to make this offering as his memorial.

As we eat his flesh that was sacrificed for us,
we are made strong,
and, as we drink his Blood that was poured out for us,
we are washed clean.

And so, with Angels and Archangels,
with Thrones and Dominions,
and with all the hosts and Powers of heaven,
we sing the hymn of your glory,
as without end we acclaim:

Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts . . .

17. When the Roman Canon is used, this special form of it is said, with proper formulas for the Communicantes (In communion with those), Hanc igitur (Therefore, Lord, we pray), and Qui pridie (On the day before he was to suffer) are said.

18. The Priest, with hands extended, says:

To you, therefore, most merciful Father,
we make humble prayer and petition
through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord:

He joins his hands and says:

that you accept

He makes the Sign of the Cross once over the bread and chalice together, saying:

and bless † these gifts, these offerings,
these holy and unblemished sacrifices,

With hands extended, he continues:

which we offer you firstly
for your holy catholic Church.
Be pleased to grant her peace,
to guard, unite and govern her
throughout the whole world,
together with your servant N. our Pope
and N. our Bishop,
and all those who, holding to the truth,
hand on the catholic and apostolic faith.

19. Commemoration of the Living.

Remember, Lord, your servants N. and N.

The Priest joins his hands and prays briefly for those for whom he intends to pray. Then, with hands extended, he continues:

and all gathered here,
whose faith and devotion are known to you.
For them we offer you this sacrifice of praise
or they offer it for themselves
and all who are dear to them:
for the redemption of their souls,
in hope of health and well-being,
and paying their homage to you,
the eternal God, living and true.

20. Within the Action.

Celebrating the most sacred day
on which our Lord Jesus Christ
was handed over for our sake,
and in communion with those whose memory we venerate,
especially the glorious ever-Virgin Mary,
Mother of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ,
and † blessed Joseph, her Spouse
your blessed Apostles and Martyrs,
Peter and Paul, Andrew,
(James, John,
Thomas, James, Philip,
Bartholomew, Matthew, Simon and Jude;
Linus, Cletus, Clement, Sixtus,
Cornelius, Cyprian,
Lawrence, Chrysogonus,
John and Paul,
Cosmas and Damian)
and all your Saints;
we ask that through their merits and prayers,
in all things we may be defended
by your protecting help.
(Through Christ our Lord. Amen.)

21. With hands extended, the Priest continues:

Therefore, Lord, we pray:
graciously accept this oblation of our service,
that of your whole family,
which we make to you
as we observe the day
on which our Lord Jesus Christ
handed on the mysteries of his Body and Blood
for his disciples to celebrate;
order our days in your peace,
and command that we be delivered from eternal damnation
and counted among the flock of those you have chosen.
He joins his hands.
(Through Christ our Lord. Amen.)

22. Holding his hands extended over the offerings, he says:

Be pleased, O God, we pray,
to bless, acknowledge,
and approve this offering in every respect;
make it spiritual and acceptable,
so that it may become for us
the Body and Blood of your most beloved Son,
our Lord Jesus Christ.

He joins his hands.

23. In the formulas that follow, the words of the Lord should be pronounced clearly and distinctly, as the nature of these words requires.

On the day before he was to suffer
for our salvation and the salvation of all,
that is today,

He takes the bread and, holding it slightly raised above the altar, continues:

he took bread in his holy and venerable hands,
He raises his eyes.
and with eyes raised to heaven
to you, O God, his almighty Father,
giving you thanks, he said the blessing,
broke the bread
and gave it to his disciples, saying:

He bows slightly.

TAKE THIS, ALL OF YOU, AND EAT OF IT,
FOR THIS IS MY BODY,
WHICH WILL BE GIVEN UP FOR YOU.

He shows the consecrated host to the people, places it again on the paten, and genuflects in adoration.

24. After this, the Priest continues:

In a similar way, when supper was ended,
He takes the chalice and, holding it slightly raised above the altar, continues:
he took this precious chalice
in his holy and venerable hands,
and once more giving you thanks, he said the blessing
and gave the chalice to his disciples, saying:

He bows slightly.

TAKE THIS, ALL OF YOU, AND DRINK FROM IT,
FOR THIS IS THE CHALICE OF MY BLOOD,
THE BLOOD OF THE NEW AND ETERNAL COVENANT,
WHICH WILL BE POURED OUT FOR YOU AND FOR MANY
FOR THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS.
DO THIS IN MEMORY OF ME.

He shows the chalice to the people, places it on the corporal, and genuflects in adoration.

25. Then he says:

The mystery of faith.

And the people continue, acclaiming:

We proclaim your Death, O Lord,
and profess your Resurrection
until you come again.


Or:

When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup,
we proclaim your Death, O Lord,
until you come again.


Or:

Save us, Savior of the world,
for by your Cross and Resurrection
you have set us free
.

26. Then the Priest, with hands extended, says:

Therefore, O Lord,
as we celebrate the memorial of the blessed Passion,
the Resurrection from the dead,
and the glorious Ascension into heaven
of Christ, your Son, our Lord,
we, your servants and your holy people,
offer to your glorious majesty
from the gifts that you have given us,
this pure victim,
this holy victim,
this spotless victim,
the holy Bread of eternal life
and the Chalice of everlasting salvation.

27. Be pleased to look upon these offerings
with a serene and kindly countenance,
and to accept them,
as once you were pleased to accept
the gifts of your servant Abel the just,
the sacrifice of Abraham, our father in faith,
and the offering of your high priest Melchizedek,
a holy sacrifice, a spotless victim.

28. Bowing, with hands joined, he continues:

In humble prayer we ask you, almighty God:
command that these gifts be borne
by the hands of your holy Angel
to your altar on high
in the sight of your divine majesty,
so that all of us, who through this participation at the altar receive
the most holy Body and Blood of your Son,
He stands upright and signs himself with the Sign of the Cross, saying:
may be filled with every grace and heavenly blessing.
He joins his hands.
(Through Christ our Lord. Amen.)

29. Commemoration of the Dead

With hands extended, the Priest says:
Remember also, Lord, your servants N. and N.,
who have gone before us with the sign of faith
and rest in the sleep of peace.
He joins his hands and prays briefly for those who have died and for whom he
intends to pray.
Then, with hands extended he continues:
Grant them, O Lord, we pray,
and all who sleep in Christ,
a place of refreshment, light and peace.
He joins his hands.
(Through Christ our Lord. Amen.)

30. He strikes his breast with his right hand, saying:

To us, also, your servants, who, though sinners,
And, with hands extended he continues:
hope in your abundant mercies,
graciously grant some share
and fellowship with your holy Apostles and Martyrs:
with John the Baptist, Stephen,
Matthias, Barnabas,
(Ignatius, Alexander,
Marcellinus, Peter,
Felicity, Perpetua,
Agatha, Lucy,
Agnes, Cecilia, Anastasia)
and all your Saints;
admit us, we beseech you,
into their company,
not weighing our merits,
but granting us your pardon,
He joins his hands.
through Christ our Lord.

31. And he continues:

Through whom
you continue to make all these good things, O Lord;
you sanctify them, fill them with life,
bless them, and bestow them upon us.

32. He takes the chalice and the paten with the host and, elevating both, he says:

Through him, and with him, and in him,
to you, O God, almighty Father,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
is all honor and glory,
for ever and ever.

The people acclaim:

Amen.

Then follows the Communion Rite.

33. At an appropriate moment during Communion, the Priest entrusts the Eucharist from the table of the altar to Deacons or acolytes or other extraordinary ministers, so that afterwards it may be brought to the sick who are to receive Holy Communion at home.


34. COMMUNION ANTIPHON           1 Cor 11: 24-25
This is the Body that will be given up for you;
this is the Chalice of the new covenant in my Blood, says the Lord;
do this, whenever you receive it, in memory of me.

35. After the distribution of Communion, a ciborium with hosts for Communion on the following day is left on the altar. The Priest, standing at the chair, says the Prayer after Communion.


36. PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Grant, almighty God,
that, just as we are renewed
by the Supper of your Son in this present age,
so we may enjoy his banquet for all eternity.
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.

The Transfer of the Most Blessed Sacrament

37. After the Prayer After Communion the Priest puts incense in the thurible while standing, blesses it and then, kneeling, incenses the Blessed Sacrament three times. Then, having put on a white humeral veil, he rises, takes the ciborium, and covers it with the ends of the veil.

38. A procession is formed in which the Blessed Sacrament, accompanied by torches and incense, is carried through the church to a place of repose prepared in a part of the church or in a chapel suitably decorated. A lay minister with a cross, standing between two other ministers with lighted candles leads off. Others carrying lighted candles follow. Before the Priest carrying the Blessed Sacrament comes the thurifer with a smoking thurible. Meanwhile, the hymn Pange, lingua (exclusive of the last two stanzas) or another eucharistic chant is sung.

Of the glorious Body telling,
O my tongue, its mysteries sing,
and the Blood, all price excelling,
which the world's eternal King,
in a noble womb once dwelling
shed for the world's ransoming.

Given for us, descending,
of a Virgin to proceed,
man with man in converse blending,
scattered he the Gospel seed,
till his sojourn drew to ending,
which he closed in wondrous deed.

At the last great Supper lying
circled by his brethren's band,
meekly with the law complying,
first he finished its command
then, immortal Food supplying,
gave himself with his own hand.

Word made Flesh, by word he maketh
very bread his Flesh to be;
man in wine Christ's Blood partaketh:
and if senses fail to see,
faith alone the true heart waketh
to behold the mystery.

Pange, lingua, gloriosi
Corporis mysterium,
Sanguinisque pretiosi,
quem in mundi pretium
fructus ventris generosi
Rex effudit Gentium.

Nobis datus, nobis natus
ex intacta Virgine,
et in mundo conversatus,
sparso verbi semine,
sui moras incolatus
miro clausit ordine.

In supremae nocte coenae
recumbens cum fratribus
observata lege plene
cibis in legalibus,
cibum turbae duodenae
se dat suis manibus.

Verbum caro, panem verum
verbo carnem efficit:
fitque sanguis Christi merum,
et si sensus deficit,
ad firmandum cor sincerum
sola fides sufficit.

39. When the procession reaches the place of repose, the Priest, with the help of the Deacon if necessary, places the ciborium in the tabernacle, the door of which remains open. Then he puts incense in the thurible and, kneeling, incenses the Blessed Sacrament, while Tantum ergo Sacramentum or another eucharistic chant is sung. Then the Deacon or the Priest himself places the Sacrament in the tabernacle and closes the door.

40. After a period of adoration in silence, the Priest and ministers genuflect and return to the sacristy.

Therefore we, before him bending,
this great Sacrament revere;
types and shadows have their ending,
for the newer rite is here;
faith, our outward sense befriending,
makes the inward vision clear.

Glory let us give, and blessing
to the Father and the Son;
honor, might and praise addressing,
while eternal ages run;
ever too his love confessing,
who, from both, with both is one.

Verbum caro, panem verum
verbo carnem efficit:
fitque sanguis Christi merum,
et si sensus deficit,
ad firmandum cor sincerum
sola fides sufficit.

Tantum ergo Sacramentum
veneremur cernui:
et antiquum documentum
novo cedat ritui:
praestet fides supplementum
sensuum defectui.

41. At an appropriate time, the altar is stripped and, if possible, the crosses are removed from the church. It is expedient that any crosses which remain in the church be veiled.

42. Vespers (Evening Prayer) is not celebrated by those who have attended the Mass of the Lord's Supper.

43. The faithful are invited to continue adoration before the Blessed Sacrament for a suitable length of time during the night, according to local circumstances, but after midnight the adoration should take place without solemnity.

44. If the celebration of the Passion of the Lord on the following Friday does not take place in the same church, the Mass is concluded in the usual way and the Blessed Sacrament is placed in the tabernacle.


FRIDAY OF THE PASSION OF THE LORD
[GOOD FRIDAY]


1. On this and the following day, by a most ancient tradition, the Church does not celebrate the Sacraments at all, except for Penance and the Anointing of the Sick.

2. On this day, Holy Communion is distributed to the faithful only within the celebration of the Lord's Passion; but it may be brought at any hour of the day to the sick who cannot participate in this celebration.

3. The altar should be completely bare: without a cross, without candles and without cloths.

The Celebration of the Passion of the Lord

4. On the afternoon of this day, about three o'clock (unless a later hour is chosen for a pastoral reason), there takes place the celebration of the Lord's Passion consisting of three parts, namely, the Liturgy of the Word, the Adoration of the Cross, and Holy Communion.

In the United States, if the size or nature of a parish or other community indicates the pastoral need for an additional liturgical service, the Diocesan Bishop may permit the service to be repeated later. This liturgy by its very nature may not, however, be celebrated in the absence of a Priest.

5. The Priest and the Deacon, if a Deacon is present, wearing red vestments as for Mass, go to the altar in silence and, after making a reverence to the altar, prostrate themselves or, if appropriate, kneel and pray in silence for a while. All others kneel.

6. Then the Priest, with the ministers, goes to the chair where, facing the people, who are standing, he says, with hands extended, one of the following prayers, omitting the invitation
Let us pray.

PRAYER
Remember your mercies, O Lord,
and with your eternal protection sanctify your servants,
for whom Christ your Son,
by the shedding of his Blood,
established the Paschal Mystery.
Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

Or:

O God, who by the Passion of Christ your Son, our Lord,
abolished the death inherited from ancient sin
by every succeeding generation,
grant that just as, being conformed to him,
we have borne by the law of nature
the image of the man of earth,
so by the sanctification of grace
we may bear the image of the Man of heaven.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.

FIRST PART: LITURGY OF THE WORD

READINGS
FIRST READING:

RESPONSORIAL PSALM:


SECOND READING:

VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL:





GOSPEL:
Isaiah 52:13-53:12

Psalm 31:2,6,12-13,15-16,17,25
R. Father, into your hands, I commend my spirit.

Hebrews 4:14-16, 5:7-9

Christus factus est pro nobis obœdiens usque ad mortem autem crucis.
Propter quod et Deus exaltávit illum: et dedit illi nomen quod est super omne nomen.

Christ became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every other name. - Phil 2:8-9

John 18:1-19:42


After the reading of the Lord's Passion, the Priest gives a brief homily and, at its end, the faithful may be invited to spend a short time in prayer.


THE SOLEMN INTERCESSIONS

11. The Liturgy of the Word concludes with the Solemn Intercessions, which take place in this way: the Deacon, if a Deacon is present, or if he is not, a lay minister, stands at the ambo, and sings or says the invitation in which the intention is expressed. Then all pray in silence for a while, and afterwards the Priest, standing at the chair or, if appropriate, at the altar, with hands extended, sings or says the prayer.

The faithful may remain either kneeling or standing throughout the entire period of the prayers.

12. Before the Priest's prayer, in accord with tradition, it is permissible to use the Deacon's invitations
Let us kneel - Let us stand, with all kneeling for silent prayer.

The Conferences of Bishops may provide other invitations to introduce the prayer of the Priest.

13. In a situation of grave public need, the Diocesan Bishop may permit or order the addition of a special intention.



I. For Holy Church

The prayer is sung in the simple tone or, if the invitations Let us kneel - Let us stand are used, in the solemn tone.

Let us pray, dearly beloved, for the holy Church of God,
that our God and Lord be pleased to give her peace,
to guard her and to unite her throughout the whole world
and grant that, leading our life in tranquility and quiet,
we may glorify God the Father almighty.

Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:

Almighty ever-living God,
who in Christ revealed your glory to all the nations,
watch over the works of your mercy,
that your Church, spread throughout all the world,
may persevere with steadfast faith in confessing your name.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.


II. For the Pope

Let us pray also for our most Holy Father Pope N.,
that our God and Lord,
who chose him for the Order of Bishops,
may keep him safe and unharmed for the Lord's holy Church,
to govern the holy People of God.

Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:

Almighty ever-living God,
by whose decree all things are founded,
look with favor on our prayers
and in your kindness protect the Pope chosen for us,
that, under him, the Christian people,
governed by you their maker,
may grow in merit by reason of their faith.
Through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.


III. For all orders and degrees of the faithful

Let us pray also for our Bishop N.,
for all Bishops, Priests, and Deacons of the Church
and for the whole of the faithful people.

Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:

Almighty ever-living God,
by whose Spirit the whole body of the Church
is sanctified and governed,
hear our humble prayer for your ministers,
that, by the gift of your grace,
all may serve you faithfully.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.


IV. For catechumens

Let us pray also for (our) catechumens,
that our God and Lord
may open wide the ears of their inmost hearts
and unlock the gates of his mercy,
that, having received forgiveness of all their sins
through the waters of rebirth,
they, too, may be one with Christ Jesus our Lord.

Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:

Almighty ever-living God,
who make your Church ever fruitful with new offspring,
increase the faith and understanding of (our) catechumens,
that, reborn in the font of Baptism,
they may be added to the number of your adopted children.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.


V. For the unity of Christians

Let us pray also for all our brothers and sisters who believe in Christ,
that our God and Lord may be pleased,
as they live the truth,
to gather them together and keep them in his one Church.

Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:

Almighty ever-living God,
who gather what is scattered
and keep together what you have gathered,
look kindly on the flock of your Son,
that those whom one Baptism has consecrated
may be joined together by integrity of faith
and united in the bond of charity.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.


VI. For the Jewish people

Let us pray also for the Jewish people,
to whom the Lord our God spoke first,
that he may grant them to advance in love of his name
and in faithfulness to his covenant.

Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:

Almighty ever-living God,
who bestowed your promises on Abraham and his descendants,
hear graciously the prayers of your Church,
that the people you first made your own
may attain the fullness of redemption.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.


VII. For those who do not believe in Christ

Let us pray also for those who do not believe in Christ,
that, enlightened by the Holy Spirit,
they, too, may enter on the way of salvation.

Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:

Almighty ever-living God,
grant to those who do not confess Christ
that, by walking before you with a sincere heart,
they may find the truth
and that we ourselves, being constant in mutual love
and striving to understand more fully the mystery of your life,
may be made more perfect witnesses to your love in the world.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.


VIII. For those who do not believe in God

Let us pray also for those who do not acknowledge God,
that, following what is right in sincerity of heart,
they may find the way to God himself.

Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:

Almighty ever-living God,
who created all people
to seek you always by desiring you
and, by finding you, come to rest,
grant, we pray,
that, despite every harmful obstacle,
all may recognize the signs of your fatherly love
and the witness of the good works
done by those who believe in you,
and so in gladness confess you,
the one true God and Father of our human race.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.


IX. For those in public office

Let us pray also for those in public office,
that our God and Lord
may direct their minds and hearts according to his will
for the true peace and freedom of all.

Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:

Almighty ever-living God,
in whose hand lies every human heart
and the rights of peoples,
look with favor, we pray,
on those who govern with authority over us,
that throughout the whole world,
the prosperity of peoples,
the assurance of peace,
and freedom of religion
may through your gift be made secure.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.


X. For those in tribulation

Let us pray, dearly beloved,
to God the Father almighty,
that he may cleanse the world of all errors,
banish disease, drive out hunger,
unlock prisons, loosen fetters,
granting to travelers safety, to pilgrims return,
health to the sick, and salvation to the dying.

Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:

Almighty ever-living God,
comfort of mourners, strength of all who toil,
may the prayers of those who cry out in any tribulation
come before you,
that all may rejoice,
because in their hour of need
your mercy was at hand.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.


SECOND PART: THE ADORATION OF THE HOLY CROSS

14. After the Solemn Intercessions, the solemn Adoration of the Holy Cross takes place. Of the two forms of the showing of the Cross presented here, the more appropriate one, according to pastoral needs, should be chosen.


The Showing of the Holy Cross
First Form

15. The Deacon accompanied by ministers, or another suitable minister, goes to the sacristy, from which, in procession, accompanied by two ministers with lighted candles, he carries the Cross, covered with a violet veil, through the church to the middle of the sanctuary.

The Priest, standing before the altar and facing the people, receives the Cross, uncovers a little of its upper part and elevates it while beginning the
Ecce lignum Crucis (Behold the wood of the Cross). He is assisted in singing by the Deacon or, if need be, by the choir. All respond, Come, let us adore. At the end of the singing, all kneel and for a brief moment adore in silence, while the Priest stands and holds the Cross raised.

Ecce lignum Crucis, in quo salus mundi pepéndit.
Behold the wood of the Cross,
on which hung the salvation of the world.

R. Come, let us adore. Or: Veníte, adorémus

Then the Priest uncovers the right arm of the Cross and again, raising up the Cross, begins, Behold the wood of the Cross and everything takes place as above.

Finally, he uncovers the Cross entirely and, raising it up, he begins the invitation
Behold the wood of the Cross a third time and everything takes place like the first time.


Second Form

16. The Priest or the Deacon accompanied by ministers, or another suitable minister, goes to the door of the church, where he receives the unveiled Cross, and the ministers take lighted candles; then the procession sets off through the church to the sanctuary. Near the door, in the middle of the church and before the entrance of the sanctuary, the one who carries the Cross elevates it, singing, Behold the wood of the Cross, to which all respond, Come, let us adore. After each response all kneel and for a brief moment adore in silence, as above.


The Adoration of the Holy Cross

17. Then, accompanied by two ministers with lighted candles, the Priest or the Deacon carries the Cross to the entrance of the sanctuary or to another suitable place and there puts it down or hands it over to the ministers to hold. Candles are placed on the right and left sides of the Cross.

18. For the Adoration of the Cross, first the Priest Celebrant alone approaches, with the chasuble and his shoes removed, if appropriate. Then the clergy, the lay ministers, and the faithful approach, moving as if in procession, and showing reverence to the Cross by a simple genuflection or by some other sign appropriate to the usage of the region, for example, by kissing the Cross.

19. Only one Cross should be offered for adoration. If, because of the large number of people, it is not possible for all to approach individually, the Priest, after some of the clergy and faithful have adored, takes the Cross and, standing in the middle before the altar, invites the people in a few words to adore the Holy Cross and afterwards holds the Cross elevated higher for a brief time, for the faithful to adore it in silence.

20. While the adoration of the Holy Cross is taking place, the antiphon
Crucem tuam adoramus (We adore your Cross, O Lord), the Reproaches, the hymn Crux fidelis (Faithful Cross) or other suitable chants are sung, during which all who have already adored the Cross remain seated.

Chants to Be Sung during the Adoration of the Holy Cross

Ant. We adore your Cross, O Lord,
we praise and glorify your holy Resurrection,
for behold, because of the wood of a tree
joy has come to the whole world.


May God have mercy on us and bless us;           Cf. Ps 67 (66): 2
may he let his face shed its light upon us
and have mercy on us.

And the antiphon is repeated: We adore . . .


The Reproaches
I

Parts assigned to one of the two choirs separately are indicated by the numbers 1
(first choir) and 2 (second choir); parts sung by both choirs together are marked: 1 and 2.
Some of the verses may also be sung by two cantors.

1 and 2:

1:


1:
2:
1:
2:
1:
2:
1 and 2:


1:
2:
1:
2:
1:
2:
1 and 2:




1:
2:
1:
2:
1:
2:
My people, what have I done to you?
Or how have I grieved you? Answer me!
Because I led you out of the land of Egypt,
you have prepared a Cross for your Savior.

Hagios o Theos,
Holy is God,
Hagios Ischyros,
Holy and Mighty,
Hagios Athanatos, eleison himas.
Holy and Immortal One, have mercy on us.
Because I led you out through the desert forty years
and fed you with manna and brought you into a land of plenty,
you have prepared a Cross for your Savior.
Hagios o Theos,
Holy is God,
Hagios Ischyros,
Holy and Mighty,
Hagios Athanatos, eleison himas.
Holy and Immortal One, have mercy on us.
What more should I have done for you and have not done?
Indeed, I planted you as my most beautiful chosen vine
and you have turned very bitter for me,
for in my thirst you gave me vinegar to drink
and with a lance you pierced your Savior's side.
Hagios o Theos,
Holy is God,
Hagios Ischyros,
Holy and Mighty,
Hagios Athanatos, eleison himas.
Holy and Immortal One, have mercy on us.


II

Cantors:
I scourged Egypt for your sake with its firstborn sons,
and you scourged me and handed me over.

1 and 2 repeat:
My people, what have I done to you?
Or how have I grieved you? Answer me!

Cantors:
I led you out from Egypt as Pharoah lay sunk in the Red Sea,
and you handed me over to the chief priests.

1 and 2 repeat:
My people . . .

Cantors:
I opened up the sea before you,
and you opened my side with a lance.

1 and 2 repeat:
My people . . .

Cantors:
I went before you in a pillar of cloud,
and you led me into Pilate's palace.

1 and 2 repeat:
My people . . .

Cantors:
I fed you with manna in the desert,
and on me you rained blows and lashes.

1 and 2 repeat:
My people . . .

Cantors:
I gave you saving water from the rock to drink,
and for drink you gave me gall and vinegar.

1 and 2 repeat:
My people . . .

Cantors:
I struck down for you the kings of the Canaanites,
and you struck my head with a reed.

1 and 2 repeat:
My people . . .

Cantors:
I put in your hand a royal scepter,
and you put on my head a crown of thorns.

1 and 2 repeat:
My people ...

Cantors:
I exalted you with great power,
and you hung me on the scaffold of the Cross.

1 and 2 repeat:
My people ...


Hymn

All:
Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,
Noble tree beyond compare!
Never was there such a scion,
Never leaf or flower so rare.
Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,
Sweet the burden that they bear!


Cantors:
Sing, my tongue, in exultation
Of our banner and device!
Make a solemn proclamation
Of a triumph and its price:
How the Savior of creation
Conquered by his sacrifice!

All:
Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,
Noble tree beyond compare!
Never was there such a scion,
Never leaf or flower so rare.


Cantors:
For, when Adam first offended,
Eating that forbidden fruit,
Not all hopes of glory ended
With the serpent at the root:
Broken nature would be mended
By a second tree and shoot.

All:
Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,
Sweet the burden that they bear!


Cantors:
Thus the tempter was outwitted
By a wisdom deeper still:
Remedy and ailment fitted,
Means to cure and means to kill;
That the world might be acquitted,
Christ would do his Father's will.

All:
Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,
Noble tree beyond compare!
Never was there such a scion,
Never leaf or flower so rare.


Cantors:
So the Father, out of pity
For our self-inflicted doom,
Sent him from the heavenly city
When the holy time had come:
He, the Son and the Almighty,
Took our flesh in Mary's womb.

All:
Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,
Sweet the burden that they bear!


Cantors:
Hear a tiny baby crying,
Founder of the seas and strands;
See his virgin Mother tying
Cloth around his feet and hands;
Find him in a manger lying
Tightly wrapped in swaddling-bands!

All:
Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,
Noble tree beyond compare!
Never was there such a scion,
Never leaf or flower so rare.


Cantors:
So he came, the long-expected,
Not in glory, not to reign;
Only born to be rejected,
Choosing hunger, toil and pain,
Till the scaffold was erected
And the Paschal Lamb was slain.

All:
Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,
Sweet the burden that they bear!



Cantors:
No disgrace was too abhorrent:
Nailed and mocked and parched he died;
Blood and water, double warrant,
Issue from his wounded side,
Washing in a mighty torrent
Earth and stars and oceantide.

All:
Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,
Noble tree beyond compare!
Never was there such a scion,
Never leaf or flower so rare.


Cantors:
Lofty timber, smooth your roughness,
Flex your boughs for blossoming;
Let your fibers lose their toughness,
Gently let your tendrils cling;
Lay aside your native gruffness,
Clasp the body of your King!

All:
Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,
Sweet the burden that they bear!


Cantors:
Noblest tree of all created,
Richly jeweled and embossed:
Post by Lamb's blood consecrated;
Spar that saves the tempest-tossed;
Scaffold-beam which, elevated,
Carries what the world has cost!

All:
Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,
Noble tree beyond compare!
Never was there such a scion,
Never leaf or flower so rare.


The following conclusion is never to be omitted:

All:
Wisdom, power, and adoration
To the blessed Trinity
For redemption and salvation
Through the Paschal Mystery,
Now, in every generation,
And for all eternity. Amen.



In accordance with local circumstances or popular traditions and if it is pastorally appropriate, the Stabat Mater may be sung, as found in the Graduale Romanum, or another suitable chant in memory of the compassion of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

21. When the adoration has been concluded, the Cross is carried by the Deacon or a minister to its place at the altar. Lighted candles are placed around or on the altar or near the Cross.

THIRD PART: HOLY COMMUNION

22. A cloth is spread on the altar, and a corporal and the Missal put in place. Meanwhile the Deacon or, if there is no Deacon, the Priest himself, putting on a humeral veil, brings the Blessed Sacrament back from the place of repose to the altar by a shorter route, while all stand in silence. Two ministers with lighted candles accompany the Blessed Sacrament and place their candlesticks around or upon the altar.

When the Deacon, if a Deacon is present, has placed the Blessed Sacrament upon the altar and uncovered the ciborium, the Priest goes to the altar and genuflects.


23. Then the Priest, with hands joined, says aloud:

At the Savior's command
and formed by divine teaching,
we dare to say:

The Priest, with hands extended says, and all present continue:

Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.

24. With hands extended, the Priest continues alone:

Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil,
graciously grant peace in our days,
that, by the help of your mercy,
we may be always free from sin
and safe from all distress,
as we await the blessed hope
and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

He joins his hands.
The people conclude the prayer, acclaiming:


For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours now and for ever.

25. Then the Priest, with hands joined, says quietly:
May the receiving of your Body and Blood,
Lord Jesus Christ,
not bring me to judgment and condemnation,
but through your loving mercy
be for me protection in mind and body
and a healing remedy.

26. The Priest then genuflects, takes a particle, and, holding it slightly raised over the ciborium, while facing the people, says aloud:

Behold the Lamb of God,
behold him who takes away the sins of the world.
Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb.
And together with the people he adds once:
Lord, I am not worthy
that you should enter under my roof,
but only say the word
and my soul shall be healed.

27. And facing the altar, he reverently consumes the Body of Christ, saying quietly: May the Body of Christ keep me safe for eternal life.

28. He then proceeds to distribute Communion to the faithful. During Communion, Psalm 22 (21) or another appropriate chant may be sung.

29. When the distribution of Communion has been completed, the ciborium is taken by the Deacon or another suitable minister to a place prepared outside the church or, if circumstances so require, it is placed in the tabernacle.

30. Then the Priest says:
Let us pray, and, after a period of sacred silence, if circumstances so suggest, has been observed, he says the Prayer after Communion.


PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION.
Almighty ever-living God,
who have restored us to life
by the blessed Death and Resurrection of your Christ,
preserve in us the work of your mercy,
that, by partaking of this mystery,
we may have a life unceasingly devoted to you.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.

31. For the Dismissal the Deacon or, if there is no Deacon, the Priest himself, may say the invitation Bow down for the blessing.

Then the Priest, standing facing the people and extending his hands over them, says this Prayer over the People:

PRAYER OVER THE PEOPLE:
May abundant blessing, O Lord, we pray,
descend upon your people,
who have honored the Death of your Son
in the hope of their resurrection:
may pardon come,
comfort be given,
holy faith increase,
and everlasting redemption be made secure.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.

32. And all, after genuflecting to the Cross, depart in silence.

33. After the celebration, the altar is stripped, but the Cross remains on the altar with two or four candlesticks.

34. Vespers (Evening Prayer) is not celebrated by those who have been present at the solemn afternoon liturgical celebration
.



HOLY SATURDAY


1. On Holy Saturday the Church waits at the Lord's tomb in prayer and fasting, meditating on his Passion and Death and on his Descent into Hell, and awaiting his Resurrection.

2. The Church abstains from the Sacrifice of the Mass, with the sacred table left bare, until after the solemn Vigil, that is, the anticipation by night of the Resurrection, when the time comes for paschal joys, the abundance of which overflows to occupy fifty days.

3. Holy Communion may only be given on this day as Viaticum.


 
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