Welcome to Ordinary Time! We’re in Year C’s focus on the Gospel of Luke, but today’s Gospel is from John. Unlike the other three evangelists, John doesn’t have his own liturgical year. The Lectionary occasionally inserts passages from John, most notably in Year B because Mark’s Gospel is so short. In today’s passage, we see the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry.
We all know this Gospel story well. The host of a wedding banquet faced embarrassment when the wine ran out, a serious breech in a culture that placed hospitality in high esteem. What could the host do?
How skillfully the evangelist portrayed the relationship of Jesus and his mother! It’s almost as if Jesus was joking around with his mom. She knew well his power and what he could do. After Jesus’ formally worded refusal (I read that as tongue-in-cheek), I picture the two of them looking into each other’s eyes and sharing a knowing laugh. And without addressing her son’s refusal, she simply told the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Jesus changed the water into wine, and the host of the wedding was astonished.
Jesus revealed himself and his ministry by going to a wedding feast to celebrate God’s wonderful gift of marriage. He used this opportunity to show the abundance of God’s love.
2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Entrance Antiphon All the Earth Shall Bow Down (Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart and Curtis Stephan)
Let Us All Rejoice #39
Today’s Entrance Antiphon points to the first of Jesus’ signs in the Gospel of John. In this new year, why not consider singing the antiphons to bring greater awareness to the official texts of the Mass, and the way they work in concert to present the Scriptures of the day?
Entrance Chant Come, Now Is the Time to Worship (Brian Doerksen)
Spirit & Song #284; Never Too Young #81; Breaking Bread #539
After several weeks of singing the beautiful music of the Advent and Christmas seasons, we return to our favorite songs for Ordinary Time. This contemporary classic gathers us together as we confess Jesus as our God.
Responsorial Psalm Proclaim His Marvelous Deeds to All the Nations (Cooper Ray)
Spirit & Psalm 2025: p. 74
The Responsorial Psalm responds to the First Reading which, in turn, supports the Gospel of the day. Cooper Ray’s bright verbatim setting captures Isaiah’s proclamation of the God who rejoices in us.
Gospel Acclamation Alleluia: Mass of Endless Mercy (Steve Angrisano)
Spirit & Psalm 2025: p. 76
The importance of singing the official text with the Alleluia cannot be understated as it prepares us to listen attentively to the proclamation of the Gospel.
Presentation and Preparation of the Gifts My Soul Is Thirsting (Steve Angrisano)
Spirit & Song #71; Never Too Young #120; Breaking Bread #768
Based on Psalm 63, this is a favorite setting for the Responsorial Psalm. Why not think outside the box and sing this as a reflection on the Gospel as the gifts are brought to the altar?
2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Communion Antiphon You Have Prepared a Table before Me [Option 1] (Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart and Curtis Stephan)
Let Us All Rejoice #41
Of the two texts offered for the Communion Antiphon, Option 1 supports well the message of today’s Gospel: “How precious is the chalice that quenches my thirst.”
Communion Chant We Remember, We Believe (Steve Angrisano and Sarah Hart)
Spirit & Song #263
The Eucharistic overtones of the Miracle of Cana are abundant. This hidden gem from the Spirit & Song repertoire celebrates Jesus as the Bread of Hope and the Cup of Joy.
Sending Forth Overflow (Matt Maher)
Spirit & Song #336; Never Too Young #251
Matt Maher’s song of thanksgiving dovetails nicely with today’s miracle story. “Let your people bless you as your cup is poured; overflow in me, my Lord.”
Liturgy Podcast is a weekly liturgy planning resource for musicians, liturgists, homilists, youth groups, faith sharing groups, and all who look to the liturgical readings for inspiration and nourishment. Join Ken Canedo as he breaks open the Scripture and plays suggested tracks from the Spirit & Song repertoire.
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