Liturgy Lesson: Gospel Acclamation

(Given: 6^th Sunday of Easter May 9, 2010)

The reading of the Gospel is the high point of the Liturgy of the Word. The Liturgy itself teaches that great reverence is to be shown to it by setting it off from the other readings with special marks of honor: whether the minister appointed to proclaim it prepares himself by a blessing or prayer; or the faithful, standing as they listen to it being read, through their acclamations acknowledge and confess Christ present and speaking to them.

ALLELUIA is one of the two Hebrew words remaining in our liturgy. The other is AMEN. The Hebrew “alleluia” means “Praise God”. Perhaps you have noticed that when some things are not sung, such as the Psalm Response, we recite them. The ALLELUIA is the one exception and it is only to be sung, not to be recited. There is an Ancient proverb that says “One who sings well prays twice.” This shows the importance of singing this expression of joy. And it is joy with which we are to anticipate the reading the Gospel, the Good news. The ALLELUIA is not sung during lent.

The Presider will come to the ambo and say “A reading from the Holy Gospel according to John” and we respond “Glory to you Lord”. Notice that we address the Lord because it is He who is speaking to us through the Gospel.

The Priest or deacon will make the sign of the cross on the Book, and then he makes small signs of the cross on his forehead, his lips and his breast. As a community we make a triple sign of the cross. Using our thumb we make the sign of the cross on our forehead, lips and heart. Sometimes the Presider will say aloud and we are invited to say silently. “May the Word of the Lord be in my mind, on my lips, and in my heart.” …Repeat and demonstrate “May the Word of the Lord be in my mind, on my lips, and in my heart”.