The Sunday gospels of Lent were designated as important guides to the spirit of this season in the liturgical reforms of Vatican II. The gospel readings from Cycle A (also noted here as “RCIA” -- Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) are especially important for those preparing for baptism and those wishing to recall their own baptismal vocation.
First Sunday of Lent: The Temptation of Jesus, following upon the account of Jesus’ own baptism, is a vivid reminder that our baptismal life is similar to Christ’s life: we will be subject to trial and temptation.
Year A: Mt 4:1-11
Year B: Mk 1:12-15
Year C: Lk 4:1-13
Second Sunday of Lent: The Transfiguration offers us the promise of light and glory even as we accompany Jesus bearing our cross.
Year A: Mt 17:1-9
Year B: Mk 9:2-10
Year C: Lk 9:28-36
Third Sunday of Lent: In the story of The Samaritan Woman ("A" Cycle and RCIA) the gradual enlightenment of the woman by Jesus is a pattern of baptismal grace that steadily purifies and enlightens us. The "C" Cycle readings ask us to listen and respond to God’s voice.
Year A (RCIA): John 4:5-42
Year B: John 2:13-25
Year C: Exodus 3:1-8a,13-15; I Cor 10:1-6, 10-12; Luke 13:1-9
Fourth Sunday of Lent: The Man Born Blind ("A" Cycle and RCIA) shows the power of God offered to cure a helpless blind man. God’s power is no less evident in the sacrament of baptism. The story of the prodigal ("C" Cycle) shows us how to find our way back from having gone terribly wrong.
Year A (RCIA): John 9:1-41
Year B: John 3:14-21
Year C : Joshua 5:9a, 10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Luke 15:1-3, 11-32
Fifth Sunday of Lent: Raising of Lazarus ("A" Cycle and RCIA) is a powerful reminder that Christ is the "resurrection and the life" and those who believe in him will have eternal life. The story of the woman charged with adultery ("C" Cycle) invites us to answer Jesus’ invitation to walk in the light.
Year A (RCIA): John 11: 1-45
Year B: John 12:20-33
Year C: Isaiah 43:16-21; Philippians 3:8-14; John 8:1-11
