First reading
Genesis 2:7–9, 3:1–7
The Creation, and the sin of our first parents
Responsorial psalm
Psalm 50(51):3–6, 12–14, 17
R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Second reading
Romans 5:12–19
However great the number of sins committed, grace was even greater
Gospel acclamation
Matthew 4:4
No one lives on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.
Gospel
Matthew 4:1–11
The temptation in the wilderness
Images from the Word
- Led by the Spirit
- Mouth of God
- Serve him alone
- A living being
- Sin
Liturgical notes
Joined to the Church, catechumens are now part of the Household of Christ, since the Church nourishes them with the Word of God and sustains them by means of liturgical celebrations.
—Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, §47
This Lent, the Sunday cycle of readings is the series dedicated to the process of initiation—so at every Mass in the parish, we will be using the same readings, particularly the gospel cycle. These gospels tell the great story of our salvation in Christ: Jesus, who was tempted and remained faithful, was then transfigured to encourage his disciples; he gives sight to the blind, and promises the water of eternal life. The Word of God forms both catechumens on their way to baptism and the baptised community for their life.
‘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.’
—prayer after Communion