Readings: St. Lawrence, Martyr

First Reading

First Reading: 2 Cor 9:6-10

Brothers and sisters:
Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. Moreover, God is able to make every
grace abundant for you, so that in all things, always having all you need, you may have an abundance for every good work.

As it is written:
He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever.


The one who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food
will supply and multiply your seed and increase the harvest of
your righteousness.

Responsorial Psalm

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 112:1-2,5-6,7-8,9

R Blessed the man who fears the Lord.

Blessed the man who fears the LORD,
who greatly delights in his commands.
His posterity shall be mighty upon the earth;
the upright generation shall be blessed.
R Blessed be God who filled my soul with fire!

Wealth and riches shall be in his house;
his generosity shall endure forever.
Light shines through the darkness for the upright;
he is gracious and merciful and just.
R Blessed be God who filled my soul with fire!

Well for the man who is gracious and lends,
who conducts his affairs with justice;
He shall never be moved;
the just one shall be in everlasting remembrance.
R Blessed be God who filled my soul with fire!

An evil report he shall not fear;
his heart is firm, trusting in the LORD.
His heart is steadfast; he shall not fear
till he looks down upon his foes.
R Blessed be God who filled my soul with fire!

Lavishly he gives to the poor,
his generosity shall endure forever;
his horn shall be exalted in glory.
R Blessed be God who filled my soul with fire!

Holy Gospel

Gospel Reading: John 12:24-26

Jesus said to his disciples, "Truly, I say to you, unless the grain of wheat falls to the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.

"Those who love their life destroy it, and those who despise their life in this world keep it for everlasting life.

"Whoever wants to serve me, let him follow me and wherever I am, there shall my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him."