Reading from the Gospel

The Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—are the four books in the New Testament about Jesus’ life. When we read the Gospel passage in church during a service of Holy Communion, a lot happens. First, we stand up! This reminds us to wake up, take notice. At some services, the reader walks into the congregation, reminding us of how Jesus came to us. When the reader announces the Gospel, we respond, “Glory to you, Lord Christ.” Afterwards, we say, “Praise to you, Lord Christ.” This is because these are the words of Christ—Jesus himself is speaking! So when you hear the Gospel read, ask, “What are you saying to me, Jesus?” (Footnote: During non-Communion Sunday services--what Anglicans call Morning Prayer--typically two lessons are read: one from the Old Testament, and one from the New Testament. Sometimes the NT reading is from one of the Gospels, while other times it is from Acts, the Epistles, or Revelation. In any case, the congregation remains seated for both the OT and NT readings during Morning Prayer, even if the NT lesson is from a Gospel.)