Reading 1 Jon 3:1-10 The word of the LORD came to Jonah a second time:""Set out for the great city of Nineveh,and announce to it the message that I will tell you.""So Jonah made ready and went to Nineveh,according to the LORD's bidding.Now Nineveh was an enormously large city;it took three days to go through it.Jonah began his journey through the city,and had gone but a single day's walk announcing,""Forty days more and Nineveh shall be destroyed,""when the people of Nineveh believed God;they proclaimed a fastand all of them, great and small, put on sackcloth.When the news reached the king of Nineveh,he rose from his throne, laid aside his robe,covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in the ashes.Then he had this proclaimed throughout Nineveh,by decree of the king and his nobles:""Neither man nor beast, neither cattle nor sheep,shall taste anything;they shall not eat, nor shall they drink water.Man and beast shall be covered with sackcloth and call loudly to God;every man shall turn from his evil wayand from the violence he has in hand.Who knows, God may relent and forgive, and withhold his blazing wrath,so that we shall not perish.""When God saw by their actions how they turned from their evil way,he repented of the evil that he had threatened to do to them;he did not carry it out. Responsorial Psalm Ps 51:3-4, 12-13, 18-19 R. (19b) A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness;in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense.Thoroughly wash me from my guiltand of my sin cleanse me.R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.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. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.For you are not pleased with sacrifices;should I offer a burnt offering, you would not accept it.My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit;a heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn. Verse Before the Gospel Jl 2:12-13 Even now, says the LORD,return to me with your whole heartfor I am gracious and merciful. Gospel Lk 11:29-32 While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them,"This generation is an evil generation;it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it,except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites,so will the Son of Man be to this generation.At the judgment the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them,because she came from the ends of the earthto hear the wisdom of Solomon,and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generationand condemn it,because at the preaching of Jonah they repented,and there is something greater than Jonah here." - - -Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Is 55:10-11 Thus says the LORD:Just as from the heavensthe rain and snow come downAnd do not return theretill they have watered the earth,making it fertile and fruitful,Giving seed to the one who sowsand bread to the one who eats,So shall my word bethat goes forth from my mouth;It shall not return to me void,but shall do my will,achieving the end for which I sent it. Responsorial Psalm PS 34:4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19 R. (18b)  From all their distress God rescues the just.Glorify the LORD with me,let us together extol his name.I sought the LORD, and he answered meand delivered me from all my fears. R. From all their distress God rescues the just.Look to him that you may be radiant with joy,and your faces may not blush with shame.When the poor one called out, the LORD heard,and from all his distress he saved him.R. From all their distress God rescues the just.The LORD has eyes for the just,and ears for their cry.The LORD confronts the evildoers,to destroy remembrance of them from the earth.R. From all their distress God rescues the just.When the just cry out, the LORD hears them,and from all their distress he rescues them.The LORD is close to the brokenhearted;and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.R. From all their distress God rescues the just. Verse Before the Gospel Mt 4:4b One does not live on bread alone,but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God. Gospel Mt 6:7-15 Jesus said to his disciples:"In praying, do not babble like the pagans,who think that they will be heard because of their many words.Do not be like them.Your Father knows what you need before you ask him."This is how you are to pray: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."If you forgive men their transgressions,your heavenly Father will forgive you.But if you do not forgive men,neither will your Father forgive your transgressions." - - -Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Lv 19:1-2, 11-18 The LORD said to Moses,"Speak to the whole assembly of the children of Israel and tell them:Be holy, for I, the LORD, your God, am holy."You shall not steal.You shall not lie or speak falsely to one another.You shall not swear falsely by my name,thus profaning the name of your God.I am the LORD."You shall not defraud or rob your neighbor.You shall not withhold overnight the wages of your day laborer.You shall not curse the deaf,or put a stumbling block in front of the blind,but you shall fear your God.I am the LORD."You shall not act dishonestly in rendering judgment.Show neither partiality to the weak nor deference to the mighty,but judge your fellow men justly.You shall not go about spreading slander among your kin;nor shall you stand by idly when your neighbor's life is at stake. I am the LORD."You shall not bear hatred for your brother in your heart. Though you may have to reprove him,do not incur sin because of him. Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against your fellow countrymen.You shall love your neighbor as yourself.I am the LORD." Responsorial Psalm Ps 19:8, 9, 10, 15 R. (John 6:63b) Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.The law of the LORD is perfect,refreshing the soul.The decree of the LORD is trustworthy,giving wisdom to the simple.R. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.The precepts of the LORD are right,rejoicing the heart.The command of the LORD is clear,enlightening the eye.R. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.The fear of the LORD is pure,enduring forever;The ordinances of the LORD are true,all of them just.R. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.Let the words of my mouth and the thought of my heartfind favor before you,O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.R. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life. Verse Before the Gospel 2 Cor 6:2b Behold, now is a very acceptable time;behold, now is the day of salvation. Gospel Mt 25:31-46 Jesus said to his disciples:"When the Son of Man comes in his glory,and all the angels with him,he will sit upon his glorious throne,and all the nations will be assembled before him. And he will separate them one from another,as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.Then the king will say to those on his right,'Come, you who are blessed by my Father.Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.For I was hungry and you gave me food,I was thirsty and you gave me drink,a stranger and you welcomed me,naked and you clothed me,ill and you cared for me,in prison and you visited me.'Then the righteous will answer him and say,'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you,or thirsty and give you drink?When did we see you a stranger and welcome you,or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?'And the king will say to them in reply,'Amen, I say to you, whatever you didfor one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.'Then he will say to those on his left,'Depart from me, you accursed,into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels.For I was hungry and you gave me no food,I was thirsty and you gave me no drink,a stranger and you gave me no welcome,naked and you gave me no clothing,ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.'Then they will answer and say,'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirstyor a stranger or naked or ill or in prison,and not minister to your needs?'He will answer them, 'Amen, I say to you,what you did not do for one of these least ones,you did not do for me.'And these will go off to eternal punishment,but the righteous to eternal life." Readings for the Optional Memorial of Saint Gregory of Narek, Abbot and Doctor of the Church - - -Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Gn 2:7-9; 3:1-7 The LORD God formed man out of the clay of the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life, and so man became a living being.Then the LORD God planted a garden in Eden, in the east, and placed there the man whom he had formed.Out of the ground the LORD God made various trees grow that were delightful to look at and good for food, with the tree of life in the middle of the garden and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.Now the serpent was the most cunning of all the animals that the LORD God had made.The serpent asked the woman,"Did God really tell you not to eatfrom any of the trees in the garden?"The woman answered the serpent: "We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden; it is only about the fruit of the tree in the middle of the garden that God said, 'You shall not eat it or even touch it, lest you die.'"But the serpent said to the woman:"You certainly will not die!No, God knows well that the moment you eat of ityour eyes will be opened and you will be like gods who know what is good and what is evil."The woman saw that the tree was good for food, pleasing to the eyes, and desirable for gaining wisdom.So she took some of its fruit and ate it; and she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized that they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves togetherand made loincloths for themselves. Responsorial Psalm Ps 51:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14 and 17 R. (cf. 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. Reading 2 Rom 5:12-19 Brothers and sisters:Through one man sin entered the world,and through sin, death,and thus death came to all men, inasmuch as all sinned—for up to the time of the law, sin was in the world, though sin is not accounted when there is no law.But death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who did not sin after the pattern of the trespass of Adam, who is the type of the one who was to come.But the gift is not like the transgression.For if by the transgression of the one, the many died, how much more did the grace of God and the gracious gift of the one man Jesus Christ overflow for the many.And the gift is not like the result of the one who sinned.For after one sin there was the judgment that brought condemnation; but the gift, after many transgressions, brought acquittal.For if, by the transgression of the one,death came to reign through that one, how much more will those who receive the abundance of graceand of the gift of justification come to reign in life through the one Jesus Christ.In conclusion, just as through one transgression condemnation came upon all, so, through one righteous act,acquittal and life came to all.For just as through the disobedience of the one manthe many were made sinners, so, through the obedience of the one, the many will be made righteous. Or Rom 5:12, 17-19 Brothers and sisters:Through one man sin entered the world,and through sin, death, and thus death came to all men, inasmuch as all sinned.For if, by the transgression of the one, death came to reign through that one, how much more will those who receive the abundance of graceand of the gift of justification come to reign in life through the one Jesus Christ.In conclusion, just as through one transgression condemnation came upon all, so, through one righteous act,acquittal and life came to all.For just as through the disobedience of the one manthe many were made sinners, so, through the obedience of the one,the many will be made righteous. Verse Before the Gospel Mt 4:4b One does not live on bread alone,but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God. Gospel Mt 4:1-11 At that time Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desertto be tempted by the devil.He fasted for forty days and forty nights,and afterwards he was hungry.The tempter approached and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command that these stones become loaves of bread."He said in reply,"It is written:One does not live on bread alone,but on every word that comes forthfrom the mouth of God."Then the devil took him to the holy city, and made him stand on the parapet of the temple, and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down.For it is written:He will command his angels concerning youand with their hands they will support you,lest you dash your foot against a stone."Jesus answered him,"Again it is written, You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test."Then the devil took him up to a very high mountain,and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in their magnificence, and he said to him, "All these I shall give to you, if you will prostrate yourself and worship me."At this, Jesus said to him,"Get away, Satan!It is written:The Lord, your God, shall you worshipand him alone shall you serve."Then the devil left him and, behold,angels came and ministered to him. - - -Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Is 58:9b-14 Thus says the LORD:If you remove from your midst oppression,false accusation and malicious speech;If you bestow your bread on the hungryand satisfy the afflicted;Then light shall rise for you in the darkness,and the gloom shall become for you like midday;Then the LORD will guide you alwaysand give you plenty even on the parched land.He will renew your strength,and you shall be like a watered garden,like a spring whose water never fails.The ancient ruins shall be rebuilt for your sake,and the foundations from ages past you shall raise up;""Repairer of the breach,"" they shall call you,""Restorer of ruined homesteads.""If you hold back your foot on the sabbathfrom following your own pursuits on my holy day;If you call the sabbath a delight,and the LORD's holy day honorable;If you honor it by not following your ways,seeking your own interests, or speaking with malice--Then you shall delight in the LORD,and I will make you ride on the heights of the earth;I will nourish you with the heritage of Jacob, your father,for the mouth of the LORD has spoken. Responsorial Psalm Ps 86:1-2, 3-4, 5-6 R. (11ab)  Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.Incline your ear, O LORD; answer me,for I am afflicted and poor.Keep my life, for I am devoted to you;save your servant who trusts in you. You are my God.R. Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.Have mercy on me, O Lord,for to you I call all the day.Gladden the soul of your servant,for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.R. Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving,abounding in kindness to all who call upon you.Hearken, O LORD, to my prayerand attend to the sound of my pleading.R. Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth. Verse Before the Gospel Ez 33:11 I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked man, says the Lord,but rather in his conversion, that he may live. Gospel Lk 5:27-32 Jesus saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the customs post. He said to him, "Follow me." And leaving everything behind, he got up and followed him. Then Levi gave a great banquet for him in his house, and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were at table with them. The Pharisees and their scribes complained to his disciples, saying, "Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?" Jesus said to them in reply, "Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do. I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners."   - - -Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Is 58:1-9a Thus says the Lord GOD:Cry out full-throated and unsparingly,lift up your voice like a trumpet blast;Tell my people their wickedness,and the house of Jacob their sins.They seek me day after day,and desire to know my ways,Like a nation that has done what is justand not abandoned the law of their God;They ask me to declare what is due them,pleased to gain access to God.""Why do we fast, and you do not see it?afflict ourselves, and you take no note of it?""Lo, on your fast day you carry out your own pursuits,and drive all your laborers.Yes, your fast ends in quarreling and fighting,striking with wicked claw.Would that today you might fastso as to make your voice heard on high!Is this the manner of fasting I wish,of keeping a day of penance:That a man bow his head like a reedand lie in sackcloth and ashes?Do you call this a fast,a day acceptable to the LORD?This, rather, is the fasting that I wish:releasing those bound unjustly,untying the thongs of the yoke;Setting free the oppressed,breaking every yoke;Sharing your bread with the hungry,sheltering the oppressed and the homeless;Clothing the naked when you see them,and not turning your back on your own.Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,and your wound shall quickly be healed;Your vindication shall go before you,and the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard.Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer,you shall cry for help, and he will say: Here I am! Responsorial Psalm Ps 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 18-19 R. (19b) A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness;in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense.Thoroughly wash me from my guiltand of my sin cleanse me.R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.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. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.For you are not pleased with sacrifices;should I offer a burnt offering, you would not accept it.My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit;a heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn. Verse Before the Gospel See Am 5:14 Seek good and not evil so that you may live,and the Lord will be with you. Gospel Mt 9:14-15 The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?" Jesus answered them, "Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast."   - - -Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Readings for the Optional Memorial of Saint Polycarp, bishop and martyr Reading 1 Dt 30:15-20 Moses said to the people:"Today I have set before youlife and prosperity, death and doom.If you obey the commandments of the LORD, your God,which I enjoin on you today,loving him, and walking in his ways,and keeping his commandments, statutes and decrees,you will live and grow numerous,and the LORD, your God,will bless you in the land you are entering to occupy.If, however, you turn away your hearts and will not listen,but are led astray and adore and serve other gods,I tell you now that you will certainly perish;you will not have a long lifeon the land that you are crossing the Jordan to enter and occupy.I call heaven and earth today to witness against you:I have set before you life and death,the blessing and the curse.Choose life, then,that you and your descendants may live, by loving the LORD, your God,heeding his voice, and holding fast to him.For that will mean life for you,a long life for you to live on the land that the LORD sworehe would give to your fathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob." Responsorial Psalm Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6 R. (40:5a)  Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.Blessed the man who follows notthe counsel of the wickedNor walks in the way of sinners,nor sits in the company of the insolent,But delights in the law of the LORDand meditates on his law day and night.R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.He is like a treeplanted near running water,That yields its fruit in due season,and whose leaves never fade.Whatever he does, prospers.R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.Not so the wicked, not so;they are like chaff which the wind drives away.For the LORD watches over the way of the just,but the way of the wicked vanishes.R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord. Verse Before the Gospel Mt 4:17 Repent, says the Lord;the Kingdom of heaven is at hand. Gospel Lk 9:22-25 Jesus said to his disciples: "The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised." Then he said to all, "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself?"     - - - Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Readings for the Optional Memorial of Saint Polycarp, bishop and martyr Reading 1 Dt 30:15-20 Moses said to the people:"Today I have set before youlife and prosperity, death and doom.If you obey the commandments of the LORD, your God,which I enjoin on you today,loving him, and walking in his ways,and keeping his commandments, statutes and decrees,you will live and grow numerous,and the LORD, your God,will bless you in the land you are entering to occupy.If, however, you turn away your hearts and will not listen,but are led astray and adore and serve other gods,I tell you now that you will certainly perish;you will not have a long lifeon the land that you are crossing the Jordan to enter and occupy.I call heaven and earth today to witness against you:I have set before you life and death,the blessing and the curse.Choose life, then,that you and your descendants may live, by loving the LORD, your God,heeding his voice, and holding fast to him.For that will mean life for you,a long life for you to live on the land that the LORD sworehe would give to your fathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob." Responsorial Psalm Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6 R. (40:5a)  Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.Blessed the man who follows notthe counsel of the wickedNor walks in the way of sinners,nor sits in the company of the insolent,But delights in the law of the LORDand meditates on his law day and night.R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.He is like a treeplanted near running water,That yields its fruit in due season,and whose leaves never fade.Whatever he does, prospers.R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.Not so the wicked, not so;they are like chaff which the wind drives away.For the LORD watches over the way of the just,but the way of the wicked vanishes.R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord. Verse Before the Gospel Mt 4:17 Repent, says the Lord;the Kingdom of heaven is at hand. Gospel Lk 9:22-25 Jesus said to his disciples: "The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised." Then he said to all, "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself?"     - - -Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Jl 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 relentand leave behind him a blessing,Offerings and libationsfor 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 childrenand the infants at the breast;Let the bridegroom quit his roomand the bride her chamber.Between the porch and the altarlet 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 landand took pity on his people. Responsorial Psalm Ps 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 guiltand 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. Reading 2 2 Cor 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. Verse Before the Gospel See Ps 95:8 If today you hear his voice,harden not your hearts. Gospel Mt 6:1-6, 16-18 Jesus said to his disciples:"Take care not to perform righteous deedsin 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 streetsto 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 cornersso 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." - - - Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Sir 2:1-11 My son, when you come to serve the LORD,stand in justice and fear,prepare yourself for trials.Be sincere of heart and steadfast,incline your ear and receive the word of understanding,undisturbed in time of adversity.Wait on God, with patience, cling to him, forsake him not;thus will you be wise in all your ways.Accept whatever befalls you,when sorrowful, be steadfast,and in crushing misfortune be patient;For in fire gold and silver are tested,and worthy people in the crucible of humiliation.Trust God and God will help you;trust in him, and he will direct your way;keep his fear and grow old therein.You who fear the LORD, wait for his mercy,turn not away lest you fall.You who fear the LORD, trust him,and your reward will not be lost.You who fear the LORD, hope for good things,for lasting joy and mercy.You who fear the LORD, love him,and your hearts will be enlightened.Study the generations long past and understand;has anyone hoped in the LORD and been disappointed?Has anyone persevered in his commandments and been forsaken?  has anyone called upon him and been rebuffed?Compassionate and merciful is the LORD;he forgives sins, he saves in time of troubleand he is a protector to all who seek him in truth. Responsorial Psalm Ps 37:3-4, 18-19, 27-28, 39-40 R. (see 5)  Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.Trust in the LORD and do good,that you may dwell in the land and be fed in security.Take delight in the LORD,and he will grant you your heart's requests.R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.The LORD watches over the lives of the wholehearted;their inheritance lasts forever.They are not put to shame in an evil time;in days of famine they have plenty. R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.Turn from evil and do good,that you may abide forever;For the LORD loves what is right,and forsakes not his faithful ones. R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.The salvation of the just is from the LORD;he is their refuge in time of distress.And the LORD helps them and delivers them;he delivers them from the wicked and saves them,because they take refuge in him. R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you. Alleluia Gal 6:14 R. Alleluia, alleluia.May I never boast except in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ,through which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world.R. Alleluia, alleluia. Gospel Mk 9:30-37 Jesus and his disciples left from there and began a journey through Galilee,but he did not wish anyone to know about it. He was teaching his disciples and telling them,"The Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill him,and three days after his death the Son of Man will rise." But they did not understand the saying,and they were afraid to question him.They came to Capernaum and, once inside the house,he began to ask them,"What were you arguing about on the way?" But they remained silent.For they had been discussing among themselves on the waywho was the greatest. Then he sat down, called the Twelve, and said to them,"If anyone wishes to be first,   he shall be the last of all and the servant of all." Taking a child, he placed it in their midst,   and putting his arms around it, he said to them,"Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me;and whoever receives me,receives not me but the One who sent me." Readings for the Memorial of Saint Peter Damian, bishop and doctor of the Church - - - Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Sir 1:1-10 All wisdom comes from the LORDand with him it remains forever, and is before all timeThe sand of the seashore, the drops of rain,the days of eternity: who can number these?Heaven's height, earth's breadth,the depths of the abyss: who can explore these?Before all things else wisdom was created;and prudent understanding, from eternity.The word of God on high is the fountain of wisdomand her ways are everlasting.To whom has wisdom's root been revealed?Who knows her subtleties?To whom has the discipline of wisdom been revealed?And who has understood the multiplicity of her ways?There is but one, wise and truly awe-inspiring,seated upon his throne:There is but one, Most Highall-powerful creator-king and truly awe-inspiring one,seated upon his throne and he is the God of dominion.It is the LORD; he created her through the Holy Spirit,has seen her and taken note of her.He has poured her forth upon all his works,upon every living thing according to his bounty;he has lavished her upon his friends. Responsorial Psalm Ps 93:1ab, 1cd-2, 5 R.(1a)  The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.The LORD is king, in splendor robed;robed is the LORD and girt about with strength. R.The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.And he has made the world firm,not to be moved.Your throne stands firm from of old;from everlasting you are, O LORD. R.The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.Your decrees are worthy of trust indeed:holiness befits your house,O LORD, for length of days. R.The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty. Alleluia See 2 Tm 1:10 R. Alleluia, alleluia.Our Savior Jesus Christ has destroyed deathand brought life to light through the Gospel.R. Alleluia, alleluia. Gospel Mk 9:14-29 As Jesus came down from the mountain with Peter, James, Johnand approached the other disciples,they saw a large crowd around them and scribes arguing with them.Immediately on seeing him,the whole crowd was utterly amazed.They ran up to him and greeted him. He asked them, “What are you arguing about with them?”Someone from the crowd answered him,“Teacher, I have brought to you my son possessed by a mute spirit.Wherever it seizes him, it throws him down;he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid.I asked your disciples to drive it out, but they were unable to do so.”He said to them in reply,“O faithless generation, how long will I be with you?How long will I endure you? Bring him to me.” They brought the boy to him.And when he saw him,the spirit immediately threw the boy into convulsions.As he fell to the ground, he began to roll around   and foam at the mouth. Then he questioned his father,“How long has this been happening to him?” He replied, “Since childhood.It has often thrown him into fire and into water to kill him.But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.”Jesus said to him,“‘If you can!’ Everything is possible to one who has faith.”Then the boy’s father cried out, “I do believe, help my unbelief!”Jesus, on seeing a crowd rapidly gathering,rebuked the unclean spirit and said to it,“Mute and deaf spirit, I command you:come out of him and never enter him again!”Shouting and throwing the boy into convulsions, it came out.He became like a corpse, which caused many to say, “He is dead!”But Jesus took him by the hand, raised him, and he stood up.When he entered the house, his disciples asked him in private,“Why could we not drive the spirit out?”He said to them, “This kind can only come out through prayer.” - - -Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Lv 19:1-2, 17-18 The LORD said to Moses,"Speak to the whole Israelite community and tell them:Be holy, for I, the LORD, your God, am holy."You shall not bear hatred for your brother or sister in your heart.Though you may have to reprove your fellow citizen,do not incur sin because of him.Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against any of your people.You shall love your neighbor as yourself.I am the LORD." Responsorial Psalm Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 8, 10, 12-13 R. (8a) The Lord is kind and merciful.Bless the LORD, O my soul;and all my being, bless his holy name.Bless the LORD, O my soul,and forget not all his benefits.R. The Lord is kind and merciful.He pardons all your iniquities,heals all your ills.He redeems your life from destruction,crowns you with kindness and compassion.R. The Lord is kind and merciful.Merciful and gracious is the LORD,slow to anger and abounding in kindness.Not according to our sins does he deal with us,nor does he requite us according to our crimes.R. The Lord is kind and merciful.As far as the east is from the west,so far has he put our transgressions from us.As a father has compassion on his children,so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him.R. The Lord is kind and merciful. Reading 2 1 Cor 3:16-23 Brothers and sisters:Do you not know that you are the temple of God,and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy that person;for the temple of God, which you are, is holy.Let no one deceive himself.If any one among you considers himself wise in this age,let him become a fool, so as to become wise.For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the eyes of God,for it is written:God catches the wise in their own ruses, and again:The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise,that they are vain.So let no one boast about human beings, for everything belongs to you, Paul or Apollos or Cephas,or the world or life or death,or the present or the future:all belong to you, and you to Christ, and Christ to God. Alleluia 1 Jn 2:5 R. Alleluia, alleluia.Whoever keeps the word of Christ,the love of God is truly perfected in him.R. Alleluia, alleluia. Gospel Mt 5:38-48 Jesus said to his disciples:"You have heard that it was said,An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil.When someone strikes you on your right cheek,turn the other one as well.If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic,hand over your cloak as well.Should anyone press you into service for one mile,go for two miles. Give to the one who asks of you,and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow."You have heard that it was said,You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.But I say to you, love your enemiesand pray for those who persecute you,that you may be children of your heavenly Father,for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good,and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have?Do not the tax collectors do the same?And if you greet your brothers only,what is unusual about that?Do not the pagans do the same?So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect." - - -Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Heb 11:1-7 Brothers and sisters:Faith is the realization of what is hoped forand evidence of things not seen.Because of it the ancients were well attested.By faith we understand that the universe was ordered by the word of God,so that what is visible came into being through the invisible.By faith Abel offered to God a sacrifice greater than Cain's.Through this, he was attested to be righteous,God bearing witness to his gifts,and through this, though dead, he still speaks.By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death,and he was found no more because God had taken him.Before he was taken up, he was attested to have pleased God.But without faith it is impossible to please him,for anyone who approaches God must believe that he existsand that he rewards those who seek him.By faith Noah, warned about what was not yet seen,with reverence built an ark for the salvation of his household. Through this, he condemned the worldand inherited the righteousness that comes through faith. Responsorial Psalm Ps 145:2-3, 4-5, 10-11 R. (see 1) I will praise your name for ever, Lord.Every day will I bless you,and I will praise your name forever and ever.Great is the LORD and highly to be praised;his greatness is unsearchable. R. I will praise your name for ever, Lord.Generation after generation praises your worksand proclaims your might.They speak of the splendor of your glorious majestyand tell of your wondrous works. R. I will praise your name for ever, Lord.Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD,and let your faithful ones bless you.Let them discourse of the glory of your Kingdomand speak of your might. R. I will praise your name for ever, Lord. Alleluia Mk 9:6 R. Alleluia, alleluia.The heavens were opened and the voice of the Father thundered:This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.R. Alleluia, alleluia. Gospel Mk 9:2-13 Jesus took Peter, James, and Johnand led them up a high mountain apart by themselves.And he was transfigured before them,and his clothes became dazzling white,such as no fuller on earth could bleach them.Then Elijah appeared to them along with Moses,and they were conversing with Jesus.Then Peter said to Jesus in reply,"Rabbi, it is good that we are here!Let us make three tents:one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." He hardly knew what to say, they were so terrified.Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them;then from the cloud came a voice,"This is my beloved Son. Listen to him."Suddenly, looking around, the disciples no longer saw anyonebut Jesus alone with them.As they were coming down from the mountain,he charged them not to relate what they had seen to anyone,except when the Son of Man had risen from the dead.So they kept the matter to themselves,questioning what rising from the dead meant.Then they asked him,"Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?"He told them, "Elijah will indeed come first and restore all things,yet how is it written regarding the Son of Manthat he must suffer greatly and be treated with contempt?But I tell you that Elijah has comeand they did to him whatever they pleased,as it is written of him." - - -Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Gn 11:1-9 The whole world spoke the same language, using the same words.While the people were migrating in the east,they came upon a valley in the land of Shinar and settled there.They said to one another,"Come, let us mold bricks and harden them with fire."They used bricks for stone, and bitumen for mortar.Then they said, "Come, let us build ourselves a cityand a tower with its top in the sky,and so make a name for ourselves;otherwise we shall be scattered all over the earth."The LORD came down to see the city and the towerthat they had built.Then the LORD said: "If now, while they are one people,all speaking the same language,they have started to do this,nothing will later stop them from doing whatever they presume to do.Let us then go down and there confuse their language,so that one will not understand what another says."Thus the LORD scattered them from there all over the earth,and they stopped building the city.That is why it was called Babel,because there the LORD confused the speech of all the world.It was from that place that he scattered them all over the earth. Responsorial Psalm Ps 33:10-11, 12-13, 14-15 R. (12) Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.The LORD brings to nought the plans of nations;he foils the designs of peoples.But the plan of the LORD stands forever;the design of his heart, through all generations. R. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.Blessed the nation whose God is the LORD,the people he has chosen for his own inheritance.From heaven the LORD looks down;he sees all mankind. R. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.From his fixed throne he beholdsall who dwell on the earth,He who fashioned the heart of each,he who knows all their works. R. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own. Alleluia Jn 15:15b R. Alleluia, alleluia.I call you my friends, says the Lord,for I have made known to you all that the Father has told me.R. Alleluia, alleluia. Gospel Mk 8:34—9:1 Jesus summoned the crowd with his disciples and said to them,"Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself,take up his cross, and follow me.For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it,but whoever loses his life for my sakeand that of the Gospel will save it.What profit is there for one to gain the whole worldand forfeit his life?What could one give in exchange for his life?Whoever is ashamed of me and of my wordsin this faithless and sinful generation,the Son of Man will be ashamed ofwhen he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels."He also said to them,"Amen, I say to you,there are some standing here who will not taste deathuntil they see that the Kingdom of God has come in power." Readings for the Optional Memorial of the Seven Founders of the Order of Servites, religious - - - Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Gn 9:1-13 God blessed Noah and his sons and said to them:“Be fertile and multiply and fill the earth.Dread fear of you shall come upon all the animals of the earthand all the birds of the air,upon all the creatures that move about on the groundand all the fishes of the sea;into your power they are delivered. Every creature that is alive shall be yours to eat;I give them all to you as I did the green plants. Only flesh with its lifeblood still in it you shall not eat.For your own lifeblood, too, I will demand an accounting:from every animal I will demand it,and from one man in regard to his fellow man   I will demand an accounting for human life.If anyone sheds the blood of man,by man shall his blood be shed;For in the image of Godhas man been made.Be fertile, then, and multiply;abound on earth and subdue it.”God said to Noah and to his sons with him:“See, I am now establishing my covenant with youand your descendants after youand with every living creature that was with you:all the birds, and the various tame and wild animalsthat were with you and came out of the ark.I will establish my covenant with you,that never again shall all bodily creatures be destroyedby the waters of a flood;there shall not be another flood to devastate the earth.”God added:“This is the sign that I am giving for all ages to come, of the covenant between me and youand every living creature with you:I set my bow in the clouds to serve as a signof the covenant between me and the earth.” Responsorial Psalm Ps 102:16-18, 19-21, 29 and 22-23 R. (20b)  From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth. The nations shall revere your name, O LORD,and all the kings of the earth your glory,When the LORD has rebuilt Zionand appeared in his glory;When he has regarded the prayer of the destitute,and not despised their prayer. R. From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.Let this be written for the generation to come,and let his future creatures praise the LORD:“The LORD looked down from his holy height,from heaven he beheld the earth,To hear the groaning of the prisoners,to release those doomed to die.” R. From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.The children of your servants shall abide,and their posterity shall continue in your presence,That the name of the LORD may be declared in Zion,and his praise, in Jerusalem,When the peoples gather together,and the kingdoms, to serve the LORD.R. From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth. Alleluia See Jn 6:63c, 68c See Jn 6:63c, 68c R. Alleluia, alleluia.Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life;you have the words of everlasting life.R. Alleluia, alleluia. Gospel Mk 8:27-33 Jesus and his disciples set out for the villages of Caesarea Philippi. Along the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” They said in reply, “John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others one of the prophets.” And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said to him in reply, “You are the Christ.”   Then he warned them not to tell anyone about him. He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and rise after three days. He spoke this openly. Then Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. At this he turned around and, looking at his disciples, rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do.”      - - - Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Readings for the Memorial of Saints Cyril and Methodius, bishops Reading 1 Gn 6:5-8; 7:1-5, 10 When the LORD saw how great was man's wickedness on earth,and how no desire that his heart conceivedwas ever anything but evil,he regretted that he had made man on the earth,and his heart was grieved.So the LORD said:"I will wipe out from the earth the men whom I have created,and not only the men,but also the beasts and the creeping things and the birds of the air,for I am sorry that I made them."But Noah found favor with the LORD.Then the LORD said to Noah:"Go into the ark, you and all your household,for you alone in this age have I found to be truly just.Of every clean animal, take with you seven pairs,a male and its mate;and of the unclean animals, one pair,a male and its mate;likewise, of every clean bird of the air, seven pairs,a male and a female,and of all the unclean birds, one pair,a male and a female.Thus you will keep their issue alive over all the earth.Seven days from now I will bring rain down on the earthfor forty days and forty nights,and so I will wipe out from the surface of the earthevery moving creature that I have made."Noah did just as the LORD had commanded him.As soon as the seven days were over,the waters of the flood came upon the earth. Responsorial Psalm Ps 29:1a and 2, 3ac-4, 3b and 9c-10 R. (11b) The Lord will bless his people with peace.Give to the LORD, you sons of God,give to the LORD glory and praise,Give to the LORD the glory due his name;adore the LORD in holy attire. R. The Lord will bless his people with peace.The voice of the LORD is over the waters,the LORD, over vast waters.The voice of the LORD is mighty;the voice of the LORD is majestic. R. The Lord will bless his people with peace.The God of glory thunders,and in his temple all say, "Glory!"The LORD is enthroned above the flood;the LORD is enthroned as king forever. R. The Lord will bless his people with peace. Alleluia Jn 14:23 R. Alleluia, alleluia.Whoever loves me will keep my word, says the Lord;and my Father will love himand we will come to him.R. Alleluia, alleluia. Gospel Mk 8:14-21 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread,and they had only one loaf with them in the boat.Jesus enjoined them, "Watch out,guard against the leaven of the Phariseesand the leaven of Herod." They concluded among themselves thatit was because they had no bread.When he became aware of this he said to them,"Why do you conclude that it is because you have no bread?Do you not yet understand or comprehend?Are your hearts hardened?Do you have eyes and not see, ears and not hear?And do you not remember,when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand,how many wicker baskets full of fragments you picked up?"They answered him, "Twelve.""When I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand,how many full baskets of fragments did you pick up?"They answered him, "Seven."He said to them, "Do you still not understand?" - - - Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Reading 1 Gn 8:6-13, 20-22 At the end of forty days Noah opened the hatch he had made in the ark,and he sent out a raven,to see if the waters had lessened on the earth.It flew back and forth until the waters dried off from the earth.Then he sent out a dove,to see if the waters had lessened on the earth.But the dove could find no place to alight and perch,and it returned to him in the ark,for there was water all over the earth.Putting out his hand, he caught the doveand drew it back to him inside the ark.He waited seven days more and again sent the dove out from the ark.In the evening the dove came back to him,and there in its bill was a plucked-off olive leaf!So Noah knew that the waters had lessened on the earth.He waited still another seven daysand then released the dove once more;and this time it did not come back.In the six hundred and first year of Noah’s life,in the first month, on the first day of the month,the water began to dry up on the earth.Noah then removed the covering of the arkand saw that the surface of the ground was drying up.Noah built an altar to the LORD,and choosing from every clean animal and every clean bird,he offered burnt offerings on the altar.When the LORD smelled the sweet odor, he said to himself:“Never again will I doom the earth because of mansince the desires of man’s heart are evil from the start;nor will I ever again strike down all living beings, as I have done.As long as the earth lasts,seedtime and harvest,cold and heat,Summer and winter,and day and nightshall not cease.” Responsorial Psalm Ps 116:12-13, 14-15, 18-19 R.  (17a)  To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise. or: R. Alleluia.  How shall I make a return to the LORD for all the good he has done for me? The cup of salvation I will take up, and I will call upon the name of the LORD. R. To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise. or: R. Alleluia. My vows to the LORD I will pay in the presence of all his people. Precious in the eyes of the LORD is the death of his faithful ones. R. To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise. or: R. Alleluia. My vows to the LORD I will pay in the presence of all his people, In the courts of the house of the LORD, in your midst, O Jerusalem. R. To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise. or: R. Alleluia. Alleluia  See Eph 1:17-18 R. Alleluia, alleluia.May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christenlighten the eyes of our hearts,that we may know what is the hopethat belongs to his call.R. Alleluia, alleluia. Gospel Mk 8:22-26 When Jesus and his disciples arrived at Bethsaida,people brought to him a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him.He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village.Putting spittle on his eyes he laid his hands on the man and asked,“Do you see anything?”Looking up the man replied, “I see people looking like trees and walking.”Then he laid hands on the man’s eyes a second time and he saw clearly;his sight was restored and he could see everything distinctly.Then he sent him home and said, “Do not even go into the village.” - - -Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.