Sunday of the Word of God

On September 30, 2019, Pope Francis announced that the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time is to be celebrated as the Sunday of the Word of God. For 2023 the date for that celebration is Sunday, January 22, 2023.

To assist you in planning your celebration and in provoding ongoing catechetical formation around the Word of God, a number of resources are available. 

• Resources for the Sunday of the Word of God
  • This resource from the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions includes the text of the Apostolic Letter Aperuit Illis where Pope Francis announced the Sunday of the Word of God, some pastoral suggestions for marking the day and for general practice and formation, some sample intercessions for the Sunday of the Word of God, and some music suggestions. 
• Blessing over Bibles
  • This resource from the American Bible Society is intended for home use but is a great blessing to share with the people of the parish. It is available in English and Spanish. 
• Enthrone the Bible in Your Home
  • Also from the American Bible Society, this resource, in English and Spanish, provides a liturgy to honor the Word of God in a home setting. 
• USCCB Resources
  • The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has a number of helpful resources regarding Scripture and the Sunday of the Word of God:
    • Understanding the Bible 
    • Hearing the Word of God