First reading
Genesis 15:5–12, 17–18
God made a covenant with Abraham, his faithful servant.
Responsorial psalm
Psalm 26(27):1, 7–9, 13–14
R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Second reading
Philippians 3:17–4:1
Christ will transfigure these bodies of ours into copies of his glorious body.
Gospel acclamation
Matthew 17:5
From the shining cloud the Father’s voice is heard: this is my beloved Son, hear him.
Gospel
Luke 9:28–36
As Jesus prayed, the aspect of his face was changed and his clothing became brilliant as lightening.
Images from the Word
- Took with him
- His passing
- Saw his glory
- A covenant
- Be united
Liturgical notes
The purpose of the many prefaces that enrich the Roman Missal is to bring out more fully the motives for thanksgiving within the Eucharistic Prayer and to set out more clearly the different facets of the mystery of salvation.
—General Instruction of the Roman Missal, §364
Certain Sundays of Lent have been assigned their proper preface, and today’s preface draws its inspiration from the gospel of the Transfiguration. This prayer recalls Moses and Elijah’s affirmation that God’s plan is both faithful and continuous; even Jesus’ impending death looks beyond the failure of death to the glory of resurrection. So, we join with the choirs of heaven in offering constant worship to the ever-faithful one.
‘May this sacrifice, O Lord, we pray, cleanse us of our faults and sanctify your faithful in body and mind for the celebration of the paschal festivities.’
— prayer over the offerings