Ordinary Form·Liturgy of the Word
First Reading
Ordinarily from the Old Testament (outside Easter Time).
What happens
The reader goes to the and proclaims the First Reading, to which all listen seated. At the end the reader acclaims 'The word of the Lord,' and the people respond, 'Thanks be to God.' A brief silence may follow.
Why it happens
In the readings, the table of God's Word is spread before the faithful, and the treasures of the Bible are opened to them. When Sacred Scripture is read in the Church, God himself speaks to his people, and Christ, present in his word, proclaims the Gospel.
Sources
- GIRM §§55–58
- SC §§7, 51