Introduction
Lent originated in the early Church as a season of preparation for those desiring baptism. This preparation included recounting the history of salvation, which is exactly what happens in the lectionary readings on the Sundays during Lent:
- The first readings remind us of the various stages of God’s plan for our redemption, with particular focus on the Old Testament covenants.
- The second readings are passages from the epistles that highlight the role Christ played in our salvation.
- The Gospel readings reveal Jesus’ glory even in the face of suffering, as well as the compassion and mercy of God.
This arrangement of scripture readings serves as a roadmap for spiritual growth, leading believers through a season of reflection, penance, and anticipation of the Resurrection.
Sunday Readings 