First reading
Acts 4:8–12
The name of Jesus Christ is the only name in which we can be saved.
Responsorial psalm
Psalm 117(118):1, 8–9, 21–23, 26, 28–29
R. The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.
Second reading
1 John 3:1–2
We shall be like God because we shall see him as he really is.
Gospel acclamation
John 10:14
I am the good shepherd, says the Lord; I know my sheep, and mine know me.
Gospel
John 10:11–18
The good shepherd is one who lays down his life for his sheep.
Images from the Word
- Lays down
- Runs away
- My power
- Stone rejected
- Lavished on us
Liturgical notes
On Sundays, especially in Easter Time, the blessing and sprinkling of water as a memorial of Baptism may take place from time to time in all churches and chapels, even in Masses anticipated on Saturday evenings. If this rite is celebrated during Mass, it takes the place of the usual Penitential Act at the beginning of Mass
—Roman Missal, Appendix II, p. 1507
Because of the close connection between the season of Easter and the celebration of Christian initiation, it is helpful to include the blessing of water to replace the penitential act. By this inclusion, we are reminded that through our washing in water and consecration by anointing in confirmation, we are sharers in Christ—Priest, Prophet and King. As the priestly people of God, we gather for Mass to exercise this priesthood in sacrifice and thanksgiving.
‘The merciful love of the Lord fills the earth; by the word of the Lord the heavens were made, alleluia’
—entrance antiphon