This marks the liturgical close of the Season of Christmas, unlike the retail industry, which ended its Christmas on December 26, the feast day of the Church's first martyr, Saint Stephen, and the sixth day of "Valentide" (that started, at least at the Stop and Shop near my home, around December 21).
Sung Ordinary of the Mass and Alleluia: same as last week.
- After this weekend, we will put these away until next year.
All numbers given are in the maroon hymnal.
Entrance hymn: On Jordan's bank, #10
Responsory: You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation, music by Richard Rice
- From Isaiah 12, One of a very small handful of responsorial psalms NOT from the book of Psalms.
Offertory hymn: Hark! a thrilling voice is sounding, #9
Communion anthem: I bind unto myself this day, #268 (for those who wish to join in)
- Taken from the Lorica, or Breastplate, of Saint Patrick.
Meditation hymn: Let all mortal flesh keep silence, #197
Recessional hymn: Songs of thankfulness and praise, #53
Peace,
BMP
