First reading
Isaiah 11:1–10
A shoot springs from the stock of Jesse.
Responsorial psalm
Psalm 71(72):1–2, 7–8, 12–13, 17
R. Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.
Second reading
Romans 15:4–9
Christ is the saviour of all men.
Gospel acclamation
Luke 3:4, 6
Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths: all people shall see the salvation of God.
Gospel
Matthew 3:1–12
The one who follows me will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Images from the Word
- Repent
- Baptised by him
- Your repentance
- Signal for the nations
- Welcome one another
Liturgical notes
Next the priest invites the people to pray. All, together with the priest, observe a brief silence so that they may be conscious of the fact that they are in God’s presence and may formulate their petitions in their hearts and minds. Then the priest says the prayer which is customarily known as the Collect and through which the character of the celebration is expressed.
—General Instruction of the Roman Missal, §54
Throughout the celebration of the Mass, there is provision for the assembly to contribute to the celebration. In fact, their gathering for the Mass serves the intention of providing the opportunity for Christ to be present. The assembly then contributes by its faithful attention to the celebration. The presiding celebrant must ensure he respects this contribution by not rushing to proclaim the collect.
‘To you, I lift up my soul, O my God. In you, I have trusted; let me not be put to shame. Nor let my enemies exult over me; and let none who hope in you be put to shame.’
—entrance antiphon