The message of this Sunday
As the Church year draws to a close, the readings turn to the end of time. The wise bridesmaids keep their lamps supplied, ready for the bridegroom whenever he comes. Wisdom is near to those who seek her, and our hope in the resurrection lets us face death without despair.
The readings
First Reading
Wisdom is radiant and unfading, and she is easily seen by those who love her and found by those who seek her. Whoever rises early to look for her will find her sitting at the gate, for she goes about looking for those worthy of her and meets them graciously.
Responsorial Psalm
The psalmist's soul thirsts for God like a dry land without water. He has seen God's power in the sanctuary, and since God's love is better than life, he praises him and remembers him through the watches of the night.
Second Reading
Paul does not want the Thessalonians to grieve like those who have no hope about believers who have died. Since Jesus died and rose, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep, and when the Lord comes, the living and the dead will be with him for ever, so they should console one another.
Gospel Acclamation
Matt 24:42a+44
Gospel
Jesus compares the kingdom to ten bridesmaids waiting with their lamps for the bridegroom. Five wise ones bring extra oil and five foolish ones do not, and when the bridegroom arrives at midnight the foolish are away buying oil and find the door shut, so Jesus says to stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.
References follow the Lectionary for Mass; links open the full text in the New Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition. Parishes in Uganda may use a different approved translation, and where readings offer a choice the first option is linked. Always check the Uganda Episcopal Conference Ordo for local celebrations.
Music ideas
Psalm 63 is the psalm. Songs about keeping our lamps burning and watching for the bridegroom suit the entrance and preparation of the gifts, and a song of resurrection hope fits Communion, especially in November when the dead are remembered.
In Ordinary Time the Gloria is sung on Sundays, and the readings themselves are the best guide for choosing songs.
From our music library
- 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time Responsorial Psalm · Albert Edward Musiitwa
- Psalm 51 (24th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C) Responsorial Psalm · Albert Edward Musiitwa