What does GIRM say about the Liturgy of the Word?
The Liturgy of the Word is the second major division of the Mass and its very title opens up two complementary and important meanings. Obviously, this part of the Mass is concerned with words. But not just any wordsthe “General Instruction of the Roman Missal” (GIRM) makes it very explicit that these words are to be from Sacred Scripture (no non-biblical readings may be substituted; no. 57) as given in the Lectionary (that book of Scripture readings from which the lectors and deacon or presider read). Perhaps not so obvious but even more important, this part of the Mass is concerned with the Wordthat is, Jesus Christ. Gospel is central The “high point” of the Liturgy of the Word is the proclamation of the gospel (no. 60). This is so important that all kinds of “special marks of honor” surround its proclamation, such as an ordained minister (a deacon or the priest in absence of a deacon) proclaims the gospel, an acclamation is sung, the assembly stands during its proclamation, and somet
