The Fourth Sunday of Lent is traditionally called Laetare Sunday, from the Latin phrase meaning “let us rejoice.” Even in the midst of a penitential season, the Church invites us to pause and rejoice as we continue our journey toward Easter.
Today marks Part Two of the Lectionary’s three-week Lenten focus on the Gospel according to John, proclaimed as we celebrate the Second Scrutiny for our OCIA Elect. As we saw last week, John writes for a Christian community that gives clear theological priority to the divinity of Christ. Throughout this Gospel, Jesus reveals himself emphatically as the Son of God, often referring to himself as the “Son of Man,” a title drawn from the Book of Daniel with strong messianic meaning. This literary device underscores who Jesus truly is.
John’s dramatic style is on full display in today’s Gospel: the healing of the man born blind. The story opens with a familiar human instinct: the rush to judgment. The disciples immediately assume that the man’s blindness must be the result of sin. Jesus corrects them decisively
Neither he nor his parents sinned; it is so the works of God might be made visible through him… I am the light of the world.
Jesus then heals the man in a most earthy way, using clay made from saliva, and sends him to wash in the Pool of Siloam. The miracle itself is only the beginning. What follows is a long and revealing drama in which neighbors, and then the Pharisees, interrogate the man. Ironically, those who claim to see most clearly – the religious authorities – prove themselves blind, clinging to the letter of the Law while missing God’s saving work in their midst.
The First Reading from 1 Samuel reinforces this teaching. God chooses the young shepherd David, not for his appearance, but for his heart. This choice naturally leads us to Psalm 23, reminding us that the Lord is our shepherd who guides, protects, and strengthens us.
Today’s message is deeply encouraging. Christ is our light, opening our eyes and sustaining us when faith brings misunderstanding or opposition. For our OCIA Elect – and for all who bear the name Christian – this is truly a reason to rejoice.
4th Sunday of Lent Entrance Antiphon Rejoice, Jerusalem, and All Who Love Her (Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart and Curtis Stephan)
Let Us All Rejoice #75
Today’s Entrance Antiphon celebrates the abundance of God’s mercy.
Entrance Chant You Are the Light (Sarah Hart)
Breaking Bread #468
This is Sarah Hart’s hymn-style ballad on Christ as our light. Verse 1 is especially appropriate for today’s Gospel: “And though our eyes may fail to see, it is the heart that’s given sight through night and storm… You are the light.”
Responsorial Psalm The Lord Is My Shepherd, There Is Nothing I Shall Want (Sarah Hart)
Spirit & Psalm 2026: p. 108
The appealing Celtic feel of this melody has made Sarah’s setting of Psalm 23 popular beyond its use in Spirit & Psalm.
Lenten Gospel Acclamation Glory to You, Word of God: Mass of St. Mary Magdalene (Sarah Hart)
Spirit & Psalm 2026: p. 112
As always, the Acclamation verse prepares us to listen to the proclamation of the Gospel.
Presentation and Preparation of the Gifts Open My Eyes (Jesse Manibusan)
Spirit & Song #337; Never Too Young #122; Breaking Bread #418
This beloved contemporary classic is one of Jesse Manibusan’s earliest songs. May it help lead you to Christ’s healing touch.
4th Sunday of Lent Communion Antiphon The Lord Anointed My Eyes [Option 1] (Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart and Curtis Stephan)
Let Us All Rejoice #76
Antiphon Option 1 is relevant to the Gospel story of the man born blind.
Communion Chant Amazing Grace / My Chains Are Gone (John Newton; arr. by Chris Tomlin & Louie Giglio)
Spirit & Song #265
This popular contemporary setting of “Amazing Grace” underscores today’s Gospel with its message of healing and mercy.
Sending Forth Send Your Glory Down (Trevor Thomson and Tom Booth)
Spirit & Song #229
An uplifting song that sends us forth from this Eucharist praising Christ our Light.
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