Scriptures

On Sundays and solemnities, three Scriptures reading are given. On other days there are only two. If there are three reading, the first is from the Old Testament (a term wider than hebrew Scriptures, since it includes the Deuterocanonical Books), or the Acts of the Apostles during Eastertide. The first reading is followed by a Responsorial Psalm, or a sizeable portion of one. A cantor, choir or lector leads, and the congregation sings or recites a refrain. The second reading is from the New Testament typically from one of the Pauline epistles

The final reading and high point of the Liturgy of the Word is the proclamation of the Gospel. This is preceded by the singing or recitation of the Gospel Acclamation, typically an Alleluia with a verse of Scripture, which may be omitted if not sung. Alleluia is replaced during Lent by a different acclamation of praise. All stand while the Gospel is chanted or read by a deacon or , if none is available, by a priest. To conclude the Gospel reading the priest or deacon proclaims: "This is the Gospel of the Lord" (in the United States, "The Gospel of the Lord") and the people respond, "Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ." The priest or deacon then kisses the book.

A bishop, priest or deacon may then give a homily, a sermon that draws upon some aspect of the reading or the liturgy of the day. The homily, a sermon that draws upon some aspect of the reading or the liturgy of the day. The homily is obligatory on Sundays and Holy Days of obligation, and is highly encouraged for other days.

On Sundays and solemnities, all then profess their Christian faith by reciting or singing the Nicene Creed or, especially from Easter to Pentecost, the Apostles' Creed, which is particularly associated with baptism and often used with Masses for children.

The Liturgy of the Word concludes with the General Intercession or "Prayer of the Faithful." The priest speaks a general introduction, then a deacon or lay person addresses the congregation, presenting some intention for prayer, to which the congregation responds with a short response such as: "Lord hear our prayer". The priest may conclude with a supplication