Tuesday 16 DECEMBER

by Norbert Doulanni | Dec 15, 2025 | Evangelium

Saint Ado

Psalter: Week III

Purple

An archbishop and scholar, Ado was born in Sens and educated at the Benedictine abbey of Ferrieres. Ado reformed the clergy in Vienne and wrote the lives of St. Desiderius and St. Theuderis. He was an energetic man of wide sympathies and considerable influence. Ado died in 875.

Entrance Antiphon: Cf. Zec 14: 5, 7

Behold, the Lord will come, and all his holy ones with him;and on that day there will be a great light.

Collect 

O God, who through your Only Begotten Sonhave made us a new creation,look kindly, we pray,on the handiwork of your mercy,and at your Son’s comingcleanse us from every stain of the old way of life.Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,one God, for ever and ever.

First reading : Zephaniah 3:1-2,9-13

Trouble is coming to the rebellious, the defiled, the tyrannical city! She would never listen to the call, would never learn the lesson; she has never trusted in the Lord, never drawn near to her God. Yes, I will then give the peoples lips that are clean, so that all may invoke the name of the Lord and serve him under the same yoke. From beyond the banks of the rivers of Ethiopia my suppliants will bring me offerings. When that day comes you need feel no shame for all the misdeeds you have committed against me, for I will remove your proud boasters from your midst; and you will cease to strut on my holy mountain. In your midst I will leave a humble and lowly people, and those who are left in Israel will seek refuge in the name of the Lord. They will do no wrong, will tell no lies; and the perjured tongue will no longer be found in their mouths. But they will be able to graze and rest with no one to disturb them.

Responsorial Psalm : Psalm 33(34):2-3,6-7,16,18-19,23

R/ This poor man called; the Lord heard him.

I will bless the Lord at all times, his praise always on my lips; in the Lord my soul shall make its boast. The humble shall hear and be glad.

Look towards him and be radiant; let your faces not be abashed. This poor man called, the Lord heard him and rescued him from all his distress.

The Lord turns his face against the wicked to destroy their remembrance from the earth. They call and the Lord hears and rescues them in all their distress.

The Lord is close to the broken-hearted; those whose spirit is crushed he will save. The Lord ransoms the souls of his servants. Those who hide in him shall not be condemned.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia! Look, the Lord will come to save his people. Blessed those who are ready to meet him. Alleluia!

Gospel : Matthew 21:28-32

Jesus said to the chief priests and elders of the people, ‘What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He went and said to the first, “My boy, you go and work in the vineyard today.” He answered, “I will not go,” but afterwards thought better of it and went. The man then went and said the same thing to the second who answered, “Certainly, sir,” but did not go. Which of the two did the father’s will?’ ‘The first’ they said. Jesus said to them, ‘I tell you solemnly, tax collectors and prostitutes are making their way into the kingdom of God before you. For John came to you, a pattern of true righteousness, but you did not believe him, and yet the tax collectors and prostitutes did. Even after seeing that, you refused to think better of it and believe in him.’

Prayer over the Offerings            

Be pleased, O Lord, with our humble prayers and offerings, and since we have no merits to plead our cause, come, we pray, to our rescue with the protection of your mercy. Through Christ our Lord.

Communion Antiphon: Cf. 2 Tm 4: 8        

The Just Judge will bestow a crown of righteousness on those who eagerly await his coming.

Prayer after Communion            

Replenished by the food of spiritual nourishment, we humbly beseech you, O Lord, that, through our partaking in this mystery, you may teach us to judge wisely the things of earth and hold firm to the things of heaven. Through Christ our Lord.

Meditation

In today’s gospel, Jesus responds to the chief priests and elders, stressing that they are forfeiting the kingdom of God because they refuse to believe and accept God’s message. Interestingly, those they call sinners are entering the kingdom of God ahead of them. This response serves as a poignant reminder for contemporary Christians who may lack wholehearted commitment to their faith. Speaking is easy, but acting with genuine dedication requires investing time, attention, and energy.  Jesus prompts us to reflect on whether our words conform with our actions, encouraging us to evaluate the consistency between our professed beliefs and our lived experiences.

Monday 15 DECEMBER

by Norbert Doulanni | Dec 14, 2025 | Evangelium

Saint Maria Crocifissa di Rosa

Psalter: Week II

Purple

Foundress of the Handmaids of Charity of Brescia, also called the Servants of Charity. In the cholera epidemic of 1836, she became well-known as she directed a home for girls and began another residence for deaf and mute young ladies. Maria died at Brescia on December 15. She was canonized in 1954.

Entrance Antiphon: Cf. Jer 31: 10; Is 35: 4

Hear the word of the Lord, O nations; declare it to the distant lands: Behold, our Saviour will come; you need no longer fear.

Collect 

Incline a merciful ear to our cry, we pray, O Lord, and, casting light on the darkness of our hearts, visit us with the grace of your Son. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

First reading : Numbers 24:2-7,15-17

Raising his eyes Balaam saw Israel, encamped by tribes; the spirit of God came on him and he declaimed his poem. He said: ‘The oracle of Balaam son of Beor, the oracle of the man with far-seeing eyes, the oracle of one who hears the word of God. He sees what Shaddai makes him see, receives the divine answer, and his eyes are opened. How fair are your tents, O Jacob! How fair your dwellings, Israel! Like valleys that stretch afar, like gardens by the banks of a river, like aloes planted by the Lord, like cedars beside the waters! A hero arises from their stock, he reigns over countless peoples. His king is greater than Agag, his majesty is exalted.’ Then Balaam declaimed his poem again. He said: ‘The oracle of Balaam son of Beor, the oracle of the man with far-seeing eyes, the oracle of one who hears the word of God, of one who knows the knowledge of the Most High. He sees what Shaddai makes him see, receives the divine answer, and his eyes are opened. I see him – but not in the present, I behold him – but not close at hand: a star from Jacob takes the leadership, a sceptre arises from Israel.’

Responsorial Psalm : Psalm 24(25):4-6,7a-9

R/ Lord, make me know your ways.

Lord, make me know your ways. Lord, teach me your paths. Make me walk in your truth, and teach me: for you are God my saviour.

In you I hope all day long because of your goodness, O Lord. Remember your mercy, Lord, and the love you have shown from of old. Do not remember the sins of my youth. In your love remember me.

The Lord is good and upright. He shows the path to those who stray, He guides the humble in the right path, He teaches his way to the poor.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia! The Lord will come, go out to meet him. Great is his beginning and his reign will have no end. Alleluia!

Gospel : Matthew 21:23-27

Jesus had gone into the Temple and was teaching, when the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him and said, ‘What authority have you for acting like this? And who gave you this authority?’ ‘And I’ replied Jesus ‘will ask you a question, only one; if you tell me the answer to it, I will then tell you my authority for acting like this. John’s baptism: where did it come from: heaven or man?’ And they argued it out this way among themselves, ‘If we say from heaven, he will retort, “Then why did you refuse to believe him?”; but if we say from man, we have the people to fear, for they all hold that John was a prophet.’ So their reply to Jesus was, ‘We do not know.’ And he retorted, ‘Nor will I tell you my authority for acting like this.’

Prayer over the Offerings            

Accept, we pray, O Lord, these offerings we make, gathered from among your gifts to us, and may what you grant us to celebrate devoutly here below gain for us the prize of eternal redemption. Through Christ our Lord.

Communion Antiphon: Cf. Ps 105: 4-5; Is 38: 3

Come, O Lord, visit us in peace, that we may rejoice before you with a blameless heart.

Prayer after Communion            

May these mysteries, O Lord,in which we have participated,profit us, we pray,for even now, as we walk amid passing things,you teach us by themto love the things of heavenand hold fast to what endures.Through Christ our Lord.

Meditation

The chief priests and the elders question Jesus regarding the authority He uses in His teaching. With His wisdom, He responds by posing a probing hypothesis that undermines the foundations of their jealousy, hatred, and argument. Acting as adversaries, they encircle Jesus, without the inclination to embrace His teachings themselves, or allow others to benefit from them. However, their mischievous question about Jesus ultimately becomes a trap for them. Similarly, today there are many lukewarm Christians who hesitate to wholeheartedly follow Jesus and, in turn, hinder others from following Him. Let us not become stumbling blocks to others or discourage them from encountering Christ!

Sunday 14 DECEMBER

by Norbert Doulanni | Dec 13, 2025 | Evangelium

3rd Sunday of Advent

Saint John of the Cross (1542 – 1591)

Psalter: Week II

Purple

Entrance Antiphon : Phil 4: 4-5

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice. Indeed, the Lord is near.

Collect

O God, who see how your people faithfully await the feast of the Lord’s Nativity, enable us, we pray, to attain the joys of so great a salvation and to celebrate them always  withsolemn worship and glad rejoicing. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

First reading : Isaiah 35:1-6,10

Let the wilderness and the dry-lands exult, let the wasteland rejoice and bloom, let it bring forth flowers like the jonquil, let it rejoice and sing for joy. The glory of Lebanon is bestowed on it, the splendour of Carmel and Sharon; they shall see the glory of the Lord, the splendour of our God. Strengthen all weary hands, steady all trembling knees and say to all faint hearts, ‘Courage! Do not be afraid. ‘Look, your God is coming, vengeance is coming, the retribution of God; he is coming to save you.’ Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, the ears of the deaf unsealed, then the lame shall leap like a deer and the tongues of the dumb sing for joy for those the Lord has ransomed shall return. They will come to Zion shouting for joy, everlasting joy on their faces; joy and gladness will go with them and sorrow and lament be ended.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 145(146):6-10

R/  Come, Lord, and save us.

It is the Lord who keeps faith for ever, who is just to those who are oppressed. It is he who gives bread to the hungry, the Lord, who sets prisoners free,

It is the Lord who gives sight to the blind, who raises up those who are bowed down, the Lord, who protects the stranger and upholds the widow and orphan.

It is the Lord who loves the just but thwarts the path of the wicked. The Lord will reign for ever, Zion’s God, from age to age.

Second reading : James 5:7-10

Be patient, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. Think of a farmer: how patiently he waits for the precious fruit of the ground until it has had the autumn rains and the spring rains! You too have to be patient; do not lose heart, because the Lord’s coming will be soon. Do not make complaints against one another, brothers, so as not to be brought to judgement yourselves; the Judge is already to be seen waiting at the gates. For your example, brothers, in submitting with patience, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.

Gospel Acclamation : Is61:1(Lk4:18)

Alleluia, alleluia! The spirit of the Lord has been given to me. He has sent me to bring the good news to the poor.  Alleluia!

Gospel : Matthew 11:2-11

John in his prison had heard what Christ was doing and he sent his disciples to ask him, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or have we got to wait for someone else?’ Jesus answered, ‘Go back and tell John what you hear and see; the blind see again, and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised to life and the Good News is proclaimed to the poor; and happy is the man who does not lose faith in me.’ As the messengers were leaving, Jesus began to talk to the people about John: ‘What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swaying in the breeze? No? Then what did you go out to see? A man wearing fine clothes? Oh no, those who wear fine clothes are to be found in palaces. Then what did you go out for? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and much more than a prophet: he is the one of whom scripture says: ‘Look, I am going to send my messenger before you; he will prepare your way before you. ‘I tell you solemnly, of all the children born of women, a greater than John the Baptist has never been seen; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he is.’

Prayer over the Offerings

May the sacrifice of our worship, Lord, we pray, be offered to you unceasingly, to complete what was begun in sacred mystery and powerfully accomplish for us your saving work. Through Christ our Lord.

Communion Antiphon : Cf. Is 35: 4

Say to the faint of heart: Be strong and do not fear.  Behold, our God will come, and he will save us.

Prayer after Communion

We implore your mercy, Lord, that this divine sustenance may cleanse us of our faults and prepare us for the coming feasts.  Through Christ our Lord.

Meditation

The Third Sunday of Advent is Gaudate Sunday, which in Latin means “rejoice.” On this day, a departure from the penitential theme is observed, allowing for the use of pink vestments, altar cloths, flowers, and candles in the Church. In today’s gospel, John the Baptist sends envoys to Jesus Christ to verify if He is truly the anticipated Messiah. His question reveals some doubts. However, Jesus’ paramount message centres on healing. Yet, as God’s children, what do we truly gain when we experience God’s physical providence while remaining spiritually blind and lame? Our joy should stem from the realisation that Christ is coming to free and heal us from this spiritual bondage, a transformation achievable only through faith.

Saturday 13 DECEMBER

by Norbert Doulanni | Dec 12, 2025 | Evangelium

Saints Lucy, Virgin, Martyr

Psalter: Week II

Red

She was martyred in Syracuse, probably during the persecution of Diocletian (which started in 303). Devotion to her spread rapidly across practically the whole Church and her name is included in the Roman Canon of the Mass.

Entrance Antiphon         

Behold, now she follows the Lamb who was crucified for us, powerful in virginity, modesty her offering,a sacrifice on the altar of chastity.

Collect 

May the glorious intercessionof the Virgin and Martyr Saint Lucygive us new heart, we pray, O Lord,so that we may celebrate her heavenly birthdayin this present ageand so behold things eternal.Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,one God, for ever and ever.

First reading : Ecclesiasticus 48:1-4,9-12

The prophet Elijah arose like a fire, his word flaring like a torch. It was he who brought famine on the people, and who decimated them in his zeal. By the word of the Lord, he shut up the heavens, he also, three times, brought down fire. How glorious you were in your miracles, Elijah! Has anyone reason to boast as you have? Taken up in the whirlwind of fire, in a chariot with fiery horses; designated in the prophecies of doom to allay God’s wrath before the fury breaks, to turn the hearts of fathers towards their children, and to restore the tribes of Jacob, Happy shall they be who see you, and those who have fallen asleep in love.

Responsorial Psalm : Psalm 79(80):2-3,15-16,18-19

R/ Lord of hosts, bring us back; let your face shine on us and we shall be saved.

O shepherd of Israel, hear us, shine forth from your cherubim throne. O Lord, rouse up your might,O Lord, come to our help.

God of hosts, turn again, we implore, look down from heaven and see. Visit this vine and protect it, the vine your right hand has planted.

May your hand be on the man you have chosen, the man you have given your strength. And we shall never forsake you again; give us life that we may call upon your name.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia! The day of the Lord is near; Look, he comes to save us. Alleluia!

Gospel : Matthew 17:10-13

As they came down from the mountain the disciples put this question to Jesus, ‘Why do the scribes say that Elijah has to come first?’ ‘True;’ he replied ‘Elijah is to come to see that everything is once more as it should be; however, I tell you that Elijah has come already and they did not recognize him but treated him as they pleased; and the Son of Man will suffer similarly at their hands.’ The disciples understood then that he had been speaking of John the Baptist.

Prayer over the Offerings            

May the offerings we bring in celebration of blessed N.win your gracious acceptance, O Lord, we pray,just as the struggle of her suffering and passionwas pleasing to you.Through Christ our Lord.

Communion Antiphon: Rv 7: 17  

The Lamb who is at the centre of the thronewill lead them to the springs of the waters of life.

Prayer after Communion            

O God, who bestowed on blessed N. a crown among the Saintsfor her twofold triumph of virginity and martyrdom,grant, we pray, through the power of this Sacrament,that, bravely overcoming every evil,we may attain the glory of heaven.Through Christ our Lord.

Meditation

Advent is a season of preparation for the imminent arrival of the Lord, intended to evoke joy and celebration. However, in the gospel, Jesus predicts His impending passion and death. This is the very purpose for which He was born, and the cross is a sign of victory and glory. The names of Jesus, John the Baptist, and Elijah are mentioned, emphasising their roles as  bearers of God’ truth despite facing revilement and death. They were, in essence, prophets. As Christians, particularly those who have been baptised and confirmed in the faith, our calling mirrors that of these biblical figures. Many of us, however, are afraid and ashamed of the cross of Christ, failing to fulfill our calling as prophets, messengers, servants, or mouthpieces of God. There is a need for introspection and a reconsideration of our commitment to this calling!

Friday 12 DECEMBER

by Norbert Doulanni | Dec 11, 2025 | Evangelium

Our Lady of Guadalupe

Saint  Finian of Clonard (470 – 549)

Psalter: Week II

Purple/White

He founded Clonard Abbey in modern-day County Meath, and the Twelve Apostles of Ireland studied under him.

Entrance Antiphon

Behold, the Lord will come descending with splendour to visit his people with peace, and he will bestow on them eternal life.

Collect

Grant that your people, we pray, almighty God, may be ever watchful for the coming of your Only Begotten Son, that, as the author of our salvation himself has taught us, we may hasten, alert and with lighted lamps, to meet him when he comes. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

First reading : Isaiah 48:17-19

Thus says the Lord, your redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I, the Lord, your God, teach you what is good for you, I lead you in the way that you must go. If only you had been alert to my commandments, your happiness would have been like a river, your integrity like the waves of the sea. Your children would have been numbered like the sand, your descendants as many as its grains. Never would your name have been cut off or blotted out before me.

Responsorial Psalm : Psalm 1:1-4,6

R/ Anyone who follows you, O Lord, will have the light of life.

Happy indeed is the man who follows not the counsel of the wicked;  nor lingers in the way of sinners nor sits in the company of scorners, but whose delight is the law of the Lord and who ponders his law day and night.

He is like a tree that is planted beside the flowing waters, that yields its fruit in due season and whose leaves shall never fade; and all that he does shall prosper.

Not so are the wicked, not so! For they like winnowed chaff shall be driven away by the wind: for the Lord guards the way of the just but the way of the wicked leads to doom.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia! See, the king, the Lord of the world, will come. He will free us from the yoke of our bondage. Alleluia!

Gospel : Matthew 11:16-19

Jesus spoke to the crowds: ‘What description can I find for this generation? It is like children shouting to each other as they sit in the market place: “We played the pipes for you, and you wouldn’t dance; we sang dirges, and you wouldn’t be mourners.” ‘For John came, neither eating nor drinking, and they say, “He is possessed.” The Son of Man came, eating and drinking, and they say, “Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.” Yet wisdom has been proved right by her actions.’

Prayer over the Offerings

Be pleased, O Lord, with our humble prayers and offerings, and, since we have no merits to plead our cause, come, we pray, to our rescue with the protection of your mercy. Through Christ our Lord.

Communion Antiphon : Phil 3: 20-21

We await a saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will change our mortal bodies, to conform with his glorified body.

Prayer after Communion

Replenished by the food of spiritual nourishment, we humbly beseech you, O Lord, that, through our partaking in this mystery, you may teach us to judge wisely the things of earth and hold firm to the things of heaven. Through Christ our Lord.

Meditation

In today’s gospel, Jesus begins by asking, “To what shall I compare this generation?” This question serves as a rebuke to the stubborn and immature attitude of the Jews who are resisting change. Their discontent is evident as nothing seems to satisfy them.  John the Baptist, leading an austere life, is labeled a demoniac while Jesus, who partakes in eating and drinking, is accused of gluttony and drunkenness. This attitude is not unfamiliar in our contemporary world, where everyone desires things to align with their preferences. Nonetheless, the call is to authentically change for Christ by seeking His grace and embracing a love rooted in the person of Christ. Through this transformation, we can move beyond living solely for our desires to align our lives with Christ’s teachings and example.

Thursday 11 DECEMBER

by Norbert Doulanni | Dec 10, 2025 | Evangelium

Pope Saint  Damasus I (304 – 384)

Psalter: Week II

Purple

A Spaniard, he was born about 305. Joining the Roman clergy, he was elected Pope in 366, in calamitous times. He held many synods against heretics and schismatics. He promoted the cult of the martyrs. He died in 384.

Entrance Antiphon : Ps 118: 151-152

You, O Lord, are close, and all your ways are truth. From of old I have known of your decrees, for you are eternal.

Collect

Stir up our hearts, O Lord, to make ready the paths of your Only Begotten Son, that through his coming, we may be found worthy to serve you with minds made pure. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

First reading : Isaiah 41:13-20

I, the Lord, your God, I am holding you by the right hand; I tell you, ‘Do not be afraid, I will help you.’ Do not be afraid, Jacob, poor worm, Israel, puny mite. I will help you – it is the Lord who speaks – the Holy One of Israel is your redeemer. See, I turn you into a threshing-sled, new, with doubled teeth; you shall thresh and crush the mountains, and turn the hills to chaff. You shall winnow them and the wind will blow them away, the gale will scatter them. But you yourself will rejoice in the Lord, and glory in the Holy One of Israel. The poor and needy ask for water, and there is none, their tongue is parched with thirst. I, the Lord, will answer them, I, the God of Israel, will not abandon them. I will make rivers well up on barren heights, and fountains in the midst of valleys; turn the wilderness into a lake, and dry ground into waterspring. In the wilderness I will put cedar trees, acacias, myrtles, olives. In the desert I will plant juniper, plane tree and cypress side by side; so that men may see and know, may all observe and understand that the hand of the Lord has done this, that the Holy One of Israel has created it.

Responsorial Psalm : Psalm 144(145):1,9-13a

R/ The Lord is kind and full of compassion, slow to anger, abounding in love.

I will give you glory, O God my king, I will bless your name forever. How good is the Lord to all, compassionate to all his creatures.

All your creatures shall thank you, O Lord, and your friends shall repeat their blessing. They shall speak of the glory of your reign and declare your might, O God, to make known to men your mighty deeds and the glorious splendour of your reign.

Yours is an everlasting kingdom; your rule lasts from age to age.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia! Come, Lord, with your peace that we may rejoice in your presence with sincerity of heart. Alleluia!

Gospel : Matthew 11:11-15

Jesus spoke to the crowds: ‘I tell you solemnly, of all the children born of women, a greater than John the Baptist has never been seen; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he is. Since John the Baptist came, up to this present time, the kingdom of heaven has been subjected to violence and the violent are taking it by storm. Because it was towards John that all the prophecies of the prophets and of the Law were leading; and he, if you will believe me, is the Elijah who was to return. If anyone has ears to hear, let him listen!’

Prayer over the Offerings

Accept, we pray, O Lord, these offerings we make, gathered from among your gifts to us, and may what you grant us to celebrate devoutly here below gain for us the prize of eternal redemption. Through Christ our Lord.

Communion Antiphon : Ti 2: 12-13

Let us live justly and devoutly in this age, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of the glory of our great God.

Prayer after Communion

May these mysteries, O Lord, in which we have participated, profit us, we pray, for even now, as we walk amid passing things, you teach us by them to love the things of heaven and hold fast to what endures. Through Christ our Lord.

Meditation

Jesus acclaims John the Baptist as the greatest among those born of a woman, yet, surprisingly refers to him as the least in the kingdom of heaven. Why such a stark contrast? Perhaps it stems from the fact that John did not experience the cross and the love of Jesus in the same way that even the least among Christians would.  However, this does not imply superiority over Saint John, especially when we fail to acknowledge the love that God has shown us, replacing gratitude with criticism and complaints. A notable aspect of Saint John’s life was his humility, a quality notably scarce in our society today. Therefore, we are encouraged to embody and express our professed beliefs in a radically positive manner.  Living out these values becomes imperative, reminding us of the humility exemplified by Saint John and encouraging us to appreciate the love God has bestowed upon us.

Wednesday 10 DECEMBER

by Norbert Doulanni | Dec 9, 2025 | Evangelium

Saint Melchiades (d. 314)

Psalter: Week II

Purple

Born in Africa, Melchiades was pope in Rome when the Church obtained its freedom after centuries of persecution. He ordered the construction of many churches and was the first pope to occupy the cathedral of St John Lateran. He was pope for only 3 years.

Entrance Antiphon: Cf. Hab 2: 3; 1 Cor 4: 5

The Lord will come and he will not delay. He will illumine what is hidden in darkness and reveal himself to all the nations.

Collect 

Almighty God, who command us to prepare the way for Christ the Lord, grant in your kindness, we pray, that no infirmity may weary us as we long for the comforting presence of our heavenly physician. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

First reading: Isaiah 40:25-31      

‘To whom could you liken me and who could be my equal?’ says the Holy One. Lift your eyes and look. Who made these stars if not he who drills them like an army, calling each one by name? So mighty is his power, so great his strength, that not one fails to answer. How can you say, Jacob, how can you insist, Israel, ‘My destiny is hidden from the Lord, my rights are ignored by my God’? Did you not know? Had you not heard? The Lord is an everlasting God, he created the boundaries of the earth. He does not grow tired or weary, his understanding is beyond fathoming. He gives strength to the wearied, he strengthens the powerless. Young men may grow tired and weary, youths may stumble, but those who hope in the Lord renew their strength, they put out wings like eagles. They run and do not grow weary, walk and never tire.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 102(103):1-4,8,10

R/ My soul, give thanks to the Lord.

My soul, give thanks to the Lord all my being, bless his holy name. My soul, give thanks to the Lord and never forget all his blessings.

It is he who forgives all your guilt, who heals every one of your ills, who redeems your life from the grave, who crowns you with love and compassion.

The Lord is compassion and love, slow to anger and rich in mercy. He does not treat us according to our sins nor repay us according to our faults.

Gospel Acclamation     

Alleluia, alleluia! Behold, our Lord will come with power and will enlighten the eyes of his servants. Alleluia!

Gospel: Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all you who labour and are overburdened, and I will give you rest. Shoulder my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Yes, my yoke is easy and my burden light.’

Prayer over the Offerings            

May the sacrifice of our worship, Lord, we pray, be offered to you unceasingly, to complete what was begun in sacred mystery and powerfully accomplish for us your saving work. Through Christ our Lord.

Communion Antiphon: Cf. Is 40: 10; 35: 5

Behold, our Lord will come with power and will enlighten the eyes of his servants.

Prayer after Communion            

We implore your mercy, Lord, that this divine sustenance may cleanse us of our faults and prepare us for the coming feasts. Through Christ our Lord.

Meditation

In today’s gospel reading, Jesus discusses the concepts of “rest” and “yoke,” shedding light on the nature of these burdens and the freedom they entail. When he mentions “yoke,” He encompasses various forms of affliction, bondage, and obedience to the law. However, He transforms this notion, presenting it as freedom in submission to the will of God. Furthermore, the “rest” Jesus speaks of is an invitation that imparts meaning to the diverse burdens we carry. This invitation does not imply an absence of difficulties or trials in life; instead, it signifies that, with Jesus, we can face any challenge. He is ever present to assist, console, redirect, and guide us with His love. The “rest” offered by Jesus is a profound reassurance and support, enabling us to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and strength derived from our connection with Him.

TUESDAY 9 DECEMBER

by Norbert Doulanni | Dec 8, 2025 | Evangelium

Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin

(1474 – 1548)

Psalter: Week II

Purple

He was born in 1474 in Mexico. As an adult he embraced Christianity and he and his wife were baptized. In 1531 the Mother of God appeared to him. Through the purity of his faith, his humility and his fervour, a church was built, in honour of Our Lady of Guadalupe. He devoted himself to the care of the sanctuary and the reception of pilgrims until his death in 1548.

Entrance Antiphon: Cf. Zec 14: 5, 7

Behold, the Lord will come, and all his holy ones with him; and on that day there will be a great light.

Collect 

O God, who have shown forth your salvationto all the ends of the earth,grant, we pray, that we may look forward in joyto the glorious Nativity of Christ.Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,one God, for ever and ever.

First reading : Isaiah 40:1-11

‘Console my people, console them’ says your God. ‘Speak to the heart of Jerusalem and call to her that her time of service is ended, that her sin is atoned for, that she has received from the hand of the Lord double punishment for all her crimes.’ A voice cries, ‘Prepare in the wilderness a way for the Lord. Make a straight highway for our God across the desert. Let every valley be filled in, every mountain and hill be laid low. Let every cliff become a plain, and the ridges a valley; then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all mankind shall see it; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.’ A voice commands, ‘Cry!’ and I answered, ‘What shall I cry?’” – ‘All flesh is grass and its beauty like the wild flower’s. The grass withers, the flower fades when the breath of the Lord blows on them. (The grass is without doubt the people.) The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God remains for ever.’ Go up on a high mountain, joyful messenger to Zion. Shout with a loud voice, joyful messenger to Jerusalem. Shout without fear, say to the towns of Judah, ‘Here is your God.’ Here is the Lord coming with power, his arm subduing all things to him. The prize of his victory is with him, his trophies all go before him. He is like a shepherd feeding his flock, gathering lambs in his arms, holding them against his breast and leading to their rest the mother ewes.

Responsorial Psalm : Psalm 95(96):1-3,10-13

R/ Here is our God coming with power.

O sing a new song to the Lord, sing to the Lord all the earth. O sing to the Lord, bless his name. Proclaim his help day by day.

Tell among the nations his glory and his wonders among all the peoples. Proclaim to the nations: ‘God is king.’ He will judge the peoples in fairness.

Let the heavens rejoice and earth be glad, let the sea and all within it thunder praise, let the land and all it bears rejoice, all the trees of the wood shout for joy at the presence of the Lord for he comes, he comes to rule the earth.

With justice, he will rule the world, he will judge the peoples with his truth.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia! Come, Lord! Do not delay. Forgive the sins of your people. Alleluia!

Gospel : Matthew 18:12-14

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Tell me. Suppose a man has a hundred sheep and one of them strays; will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hillside and go in search of the stray? I tell you solemnly, if he finds it, it gives him more joy than do the ninety-nine that did not stray at all. Similarly, it is never the will of your Father in heaven that one of these little ones should be lost.’

Prayer over the Offerings            

Be pleased, O Lord, with our humble prayers and offerings, and, since we have no merits to plead our cause, come, we pray, to our rescue with the protection of your mercy.Through Christ our Lord.

Communion Antiphon: Cf. 2 Tm 4: 8        

The Just Judge will bestow a crown of righteousness on those who eagerly await his coming.

Prayer after Communion            

Replenished by the food of spiritual nourishment, we humbly beseech you, O Lord, that, through our partaking in this mystery, you may teach us to judge wisely the things of earth and hold firm to the things of heaven. Through Christ our Lord.

Meditation

In the parable of the lost sheep, Jesus conveys the fundamental message that God values each individual, regardless of how far they may stray from Him. He emphasises that God never neglects any of His children, tirelessly seeking those who are lost due to sin because of His boundless love for them. While God’s love and pursuit are unwavering, the parable also calls us to reflect on our role in the community of believers.  In the assembly of God’s children, it is crucial to be mindful of our behaviour, attitude, and words, ensuring that we do not become a stumbling block for others. We must not strive to be the reason why some people may leave the church due to our unruly conduct. Acknowledging that we have all fallen short and may have caused others to stumble in their faith, there is still an opportunity for redemption. By becoming truly committed Christians, we can still make amends and contribute positively to the unity and growth of the faith community.

Monday 8 DECEMBER

by Norbert Doulanni | Dec 7, 2025 | Evangelium

The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Solemnity

Psalter: Week II

White

The doctrine of the Immaculate Conception is the doctrine that the Virgin Mary was conceived without original sin, a grace that enabled Mary to give a “Yes” to becoming mother of the incarnate God, Jesus. The doctrine was formally defined as a doctrine of the Church by Pope Pius IX in 1854.

Entrance Antiphon : Is 61: 10

I rejoice heartily in the Lord, in my God is the joy of my soul; for he has clothed me with a robe of salvation, and wrapped me in a mantle of justice, like a bride adorned with her jewels.

Collect

O God, who by the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin, prepared a worthy dwelling  for your Son; grant, we pray, that, as you preserved her from every stain by virtue of the Death of your Son which you foresaw, so, through her intercession, we too may be cleansed and  admitted to your presence. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

First reading : Genesis 3:9-15. 20

After Adam had eaten of the tree the Lord God called to him, ‘Where are you?’ he asked. ‘I heard the sound of you in the garden.’ he replied. ‘I was afraid because I was naked, so I hid.’ ‘Who told you that you were naked?’ he asked. ‘Have you been eating of the tree I forbade you to eat?’ The man replied, ‘It was the woman you put with me; she gave me the fruit, and I ate it.’ Then the Lord God asked the woman, ‘What is this you have done?’ The woman replied, ‘The serpent tempted me and I ate.’ Then the Lord God said to the serpent, ‘Because you have done this, ‘Be accursed beyond all cattle, all wild beasts. You shall crawl on your belly and eat dust every day of your life. I will make you enemies of each other: you and the woman, your offspring and her offspring. It will crush your head and you will strike its heel.’ The man named his wife ‘Eve’ because she was the mother of all those who live.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 97:1-4

R/            Sing a new song to the Lord for he has worked wonders.

Sing a new song to the Lord for he has worked wonders. His right hand and his holy arm have brought salvation.

The Lord has made known his salvation; has shown his justice to the nations. He has remembered his truth and love for the house of Israel.

All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Shout to the Lord all the earth, ring out your joy.

Second Reading : Ephesians 1:3-6.11-12

Blessed be God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with all the spiritual blessings of heaven in Christ. Before the world was made, he chose us, chose us in Christ, to be holy and spotless, and to live through love in his presence, determining that we should become his adopted sons, through Jesus Christ for his own kind purposes, to make us praise the glory of his grace, his free gift to us in the Beloved. And it is in him that we were claimed as God’s own, chosen from the beginning, under the predetermined plan of the one who guides all things as he decides by his own will; chosen to be, for his greater glory, the people who would put their hopes in Christ before he came.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia! Hail, Mary, full of grace; the Lord is with thee! Blessed art thou among women Alleluia!

Gospel : Luke 1:26-38

The Angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the House of David; and the virgins name was Mary. He went in and said to her, ‘Rejoice, so highly favoured! The Lord is with you.’ She was deeply disturbed by these words and asked herself what this greeting could mean, but the angel said to her, ‘Mary, do not be afraid; you have won God’s favour. Listen! You are to conceive and bear a son, and you must name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David; he will rule over the House of Jacob for ever and his reign will have no end.’ Mary said to the angel, ‘But how can this come about, since I am a virgin?’ ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you’ the angel answered ‘and the power of the Most High will cover you with its shadow. And so the child will be holy and will be called Son of God. Know this too: your kinswoman Elizabeth has, in her old age, herself conceived a son, and she whom people called barren is now in her sixth month, for nothing is impossible to God.’ ‘I am the handmaid of the Lord,’ said Mary ‘let what you have said be done to me.’ And the angel left her.

Prayer over the Offerings

Graciously accept the saving sacrifice which we offer you, O Lord, on the Solemnity of the  Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and grant that, as we profess her, on account of your prevenient grace, to be untouched by any stain of sin, so, through her intercession, we may be delivered from all our faults. Through Christ our Lord.

Communion Antiphon

Glorious things are spoken of you, O Mary, for from you arose the sun of justice, Christ our God.

Prayer after Communion

May the Sacrament we have received, O Lord our God, heal in us the wounds of that fault from which in a singular way you preserved Blessed Mary in her Immaculate Conception. Through Christ our Lord.

Meditation

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception, celebrated today, centres not on the conception of Jesus in His mother’s womb but on Mary’s conception within her mother, Saint Anne. Mary, having been conceived and born without original sin, is the focus of this feast. Although Luke’s account of the conception of Jesus is used in the Liturgy, the fact is that we only venerate Mary because of her Son. The Angel Gabriel initially describes her in these words: “Hail Mary, full of grace.” Mary’s life poses a challenge for us Christians, exemplifying virginity, purity, and courageous acceptance and embodiment of the good news.