First reading
Isaiah 43:16–21
I am doing a new thing and I will give drink to my people.
Responsorial psalm
Psalm 125(126)
R. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
Second reading
Philippians 3:8–14
I look on everything as so much rubbish if only I can have Christ.
Gospel acclamation
Joel 2:12–13
With all your heart turn to me, for I am tender and compassionate.
Gospel
John 8:1–11
Let the person without sin be the first to throw a stone.
Images from the Word
- Death by stoning
- A text
- Went away
- My chosen people
- Still running
Liturgical notes
Though holy in its origin, this people nevertheless grows continually in holiness by its conscious, active, and fruitful participation in the mystery of the Eucharist.
—General Instruction of the Roman Missal, §5
In the coming feast of the Easter Vigil, we hold out to the elect the redeeming waters of baptism and the imposition of hands for the gift of the Holy Spirit so that they may share in Communion with the Holy One. In our origin as Christians, we share in the very holiness of our God. We are called to live that original blessing that has been entrusted to us. Each time we gather to celebrate our Sunday Mass, we move ever closer to the Holy One by our conscious, active and fruitful participation.
‘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.’
—prayer over the offerings