After the Second Reading, we rise and assume a position of greater reverence as we prepare to hear the words of the Gospel, including the very words of God incarnate, Jesus Christ. But before the Gospel begins, we participate in an acclamation that allows us to raise up our hearts and minds to God in worship.
During most of the year, we either sing or recite an Alleluia, which is Hebrew for “Praise God!” We lift up our voices in praise for the great gift of God's Word that we have heard and are about to hear. During Lent, we pray a version of “Glory to You, Word of God, Lord Jesus Christ!” There are eight possibilities, but they all ring out our praise and worship to God. We should sing or recite them with enthusiasm because God is speaking to us, and we should be excited to hear what He has to say.
The Alleluia or Lenten proclamation is followed by a verse, which may either come from the day's Gospel or be related to it in some way. The verse changes with each set of readings, and although some liturgists choose another verse, it is better to use the one in the lectionary because it is designed to give us a foretaste of the Gospel message we are about to hear.
After the verse, we sing or recite the Alleluia or Lenten proclamation once again. This little exchange goes by quickly, and we might even miss it if we are not paying enough attention. It helps to read and reflect on the acclamation verse before Mass, thinking about how it relates to the Gospel and to the overall themes of the day's readings.
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