Ke lena Lefoko la Modimo (The Word of God) by Sisters of Calvary Catholic Church Choir (Botswana) скачать в хорошем качестве

Ke lena Lefoko la Modimo (The Word of God) by Sisters of Calvary Catholic Church Choir (Botswana)

The Word of God holds profound importance in the Catholic Mass, particularly through the Liturgy of the Word, which forms one of the two main parts of the Eucharistic celebration (alongside the Liturgy of the Eucharist). The Mass is structured as a unified act of worship where God speaks to His people and nourishes them—first through His Word and then through the Body and Blood of Christ. Key Aspects of Its Importance God Speaks Directly to His People In the readings from Sacred Scripture (Old Testament, Psalms, New Testament epistles, and Gospels), it is Christ Himself who speaks. The proclaimed Word is living and active (Hebrews 4:12), and the Church teaches that when Scripture is read in the liturgy, "it is Christ Himself who speaks" (cf. Vatican II, Sacrosanctum Concilium 7). This makes the Liturgy of the Word a real encounter with God, where He reveals Himself, His plan of salvation, and His will for us today. Integral to the Celebration of the Eucharist The two parts of the Mass are inseparable: the Liturgy of the Word prepares the faithful to receive the Eucharist worthily, while the Eucharist brings the Word to fulfillment in sacramental communion. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church explains, the Liturgy of the Word is an integral part of sacramental celebrations, nourishing faith through God's Word accompanied by signs like the Responsorial Psalm, Gospel Acclamation, and homily (CCC 1154). Nourishment and Response of Faith The Word proclaimed calls for a personal and communal response. Catholics listen attentively, reflect through the homily (where the priest explains the readings and applies them to life), and respond in faith, prayer, and the Profession of Faith (Creed). This listening is active: it stirs conversion, strengthens discipleship, and unites the assembly as the People of God. The USCCB emphasizes that the Word "calls each of us individually and all of us together for a response that moves beyond the assembly to action in daily life." Enriched by Vatican II The Second Vatican Council greatly highlighted Scripture's role in the liturgy. The Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy (Sacrosanctum Concilium) and the Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation (Dei Verbum) expanded the use of Scripture in the Mass—introducing more readings, a richer three-year cycle for Sundays, and encouraging the faithful's full, conscious participation in hearing the Word. This renewal aimed to make the Bible more central to Catholic worship and life. Presence of Christ in the Word Just as Christ is truly present in the Eucharist, He is truly present in His Word during the Mass. The Church reveres the proclaimed Gospel especially (often with incense, processions, and standing), underscoring its sacredness. The Word prepares hearts for the Eucharistic encounter, making the entire celebration a single act of communion with God. In summary, the Word of God in the Catholic Mass is far more than readings or instruction—it is a living dialogue where God speaks, Christ is present, faith is nourished, and the community is formed and sent forth. Catholics are encouraged to listen with open hearts, as this encounter with Scripture directly feeds spiritual life and leads into the deeper union of the Eucharist.