First reading
Wisdom 6:12–16
Wisdom is found by those who look for her.
Responsorial psalm
Psalm 62(63):2–8
R. My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God.
Second reading
1 Thessalonians 4:13–18
Do not grieve about those who have died in Jesus.
Gospel acclamation
Matthew 24:42, 44
Be watchful and ready: you know not when the Son of Man is coming.
Gospel
Matthew 25:1–13
The wise and foolish virgins
Images from the Word
- Flasks of oil
- Fell asleep
- Buy some
- Wisdom is bright
- Comfort one another
Liturgical notes
Behold the Lamb of God, behold him who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb.
With these words we are invited to partake of Communion in the Body and Blood of Christ. They combine two biblical phrases. The first is taken from the words of St John the Baptist when he announced to the crowd the identity of Jesus—an identity that was revealed to John by the Spirit coming to rest upon Jesus at his baptism in the Jordan. The second phrase is taken from the Book of Revelation’s vision of those invited to the heavenly banquet being blessed. It is with these reminders of the Spirit and being blessed that we share in the victory of Christ and are drawn into fellowship with all the beloved as we approach the altar in Communion.
‘Nourished by this sacred gift, O Lord, we give you thanks and beseech your mercy, that by the pouring forth of your Spirit, the grace of integrity may ensure in those your heavenly power has entered.’ —prayer after Communion