During Mass, it is important to note that the Scriptures are read, not from the Bible but from a Lectionary.

CNS photoGregory A.

While it has been true in the past that sprinkling conversation with the Scriptures has typically not been a part of Catholic culture, this has certainly changed over the years.

As the liturgy section on the U.S.

Gospels, (three on Sundays and solemnities) make up the Liturgy of the Word.

The start of a new liturgical year begins with the first Sunday of Advent and marks the transition from one Lectionary cycle (A, B or C) to the next.

The USCCB website goes on to say that a Lectionary is composed of the readings and the responsorial psalm assigned for each Mass of the year including Sundays, weekdays and special occasions.

And the second reading is chosen from a New Testament letter or, in Eastertime, the Book of Revelation, he added.

For example, if the Gospel is about Jesus giving sight to the blind, the first reading will tell how the blind will see when the Messiah comes, Philippart wrote.

During the Liturgy of the Word, we have an opportunity to hear the word of God proclaimed and reflect upon it, pray with it and assimilate it into our life.

This gift invites a response, and God invites our response to his word every day.

And yet, how many times do we say these words automatically, without thinking and without being truly grateful for the word of God in our lives Here are three tips to be more receptive to the word of God and to cultivate a joyful heart.

Spend some time alone and with your family reading the Scriptures together and making a note of any important points that come to mind.

Want to know and love Christ better Open the Scriptures regularly.

St. Jerome famously said that ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.

In sacred Scripture, we constantly find nourishment and strength.

The word is welcomed, not as a humans word but the word of God.

His word is freely available to us, not just at Mass but every day if we would take the time to open it.

The Scriptures are the voice of God the Father who loves us deeply and unconditionally.

When we hear the phrase, The word of the Lord, we should not just think of words or text, but THE Word.

Intimacy with Gods word is intimacy with Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.

It is a fountain of joy and nourishment that gives us the strength to arise each day.

Originally from Ireland, she lives in Wisconsin with her three children.

Liturgy Of The Word Vs Mass