Common of Holy Men and Women

The Common of Holy Men and Women is a set of readings in the Catholic Church used for Masses that celebrate the lives of saints. Saints are men and women who lived holy lives, following God with devotion and love. They gave their lives to God in many different ways, and the Church honors them as examples of faith for all Catholics. When a saint does not have specific readings assigned for their feast day, priests may use readings from the Common of Holy Men and Women to celebrate that saint’s life and virtues.

These readings in the Common of Holy Men and Women focus on important themes, such as holiness, service to others, and deep trust in God. The selections also highlight discipleship, encouraging us to follow Jesus fully. Through the lives of saints, we see examples of men and women who loved God and others deeply. They often gave up everything for God’s kingdom, living simply and sharing God’s love with everyone they met.

Each reading in the Common of Holy Men and Women reflects a part of the saint’s journey. Some readings show us the call to leave behind everything and follow God’s way. Others emphasize humility, kindness, and compassion. The readings also remind us that true discipleship requires dedication and trust in God’s plans. By listening to these passages, Catholics are invited to grow closer to God and live in service to others.

The Common of Holy Men and Women celebrates all the saints, both well-known and those who lived quietly in faith. These readings invite us to reflect on their lives and to seek holiness in our own. The saints inspire us to serve, to love, and to walk humbly with God. In honoring their lives, we remember that we, too, are called to follow God’s path with love and courage.

Choices for the First Reading for the Common of Holy Men and Women

The first readings for the Common of Holy Men and Women outside the Easter season highlight the call to live a life of holiness, humility, and dedication to God. These passages show people leaving behind comfort, placing their trust in God, and embracing lives of service and righteousness. Each reading in the Common of Holy Men and Women emphasizes core virtues such as faith, humility, and love for others. These examples invite us to reflect on what it means to follow God fully, trusting in His guidance and living out our faith through actions and choices that honor Him.

• When it is not the Easter season:
  • Genesis 12:1-4a: God called Abram to leave his homeland, promising him blessings, a great name, and that all nations would be blessed through him. Abram obeyed.
  • Leviticus 19:1-2, 17-18: God calls the people of Israel to holiness, urging them to avoid hatred, revenge, and grudges, and to love others as they love themselves.
  • Deuteronomy 6:3-9: Moses urged Israel to love God fully, obey his commands, and teach his words to their children, carrying them in all aspects of daily life.
  • Deuteronomy 10:8-9: Moses explained that the tribe of Levi was chosen to carry the ark, serve God, and bless in his name. Their inheritance is the Lord himself.
  • 1 Kings 19:4-9a, 11-15a: Elijah, weary and alone, encountered God at Horeb. In the gentle whisper, God spoke to him, renewing his mission and directing him to continue on his journey.
  • 1 Kings 19:16B, 19-21: God instructed Elijah to appoint Elisha as his successor. Elisha left his work, said goodbye to his family, and offered a sacrifice before joining Elijah as his attendant.
  • Tobit 8:5-7: On their wedding night, Tobiah and Sarah prayed together, asking for God’s mercy and a blessed, long life together. They praised God for creating marriage as a holy partnership.
  • Tobit 12:6-13: Raphael urged Tobit and his son to praise God’s works openly, to do good, and to give generously. He revealed he presented their prayers to God and had been sent to test Tobit’s faith.
  • Judith 8:2-8: Judith, a beautiful and devout widow, faithfully observed fasting and prayer. She managed her late husband’s wealth and was respected by all for her reverence and integrity.
  • Esther C:1-7, 10: Mordecai prayed to God for Israel’s salvation, explaining his refusal to honor Haman as a stand for God alone. He asked for mercy and for mourning to turn into praise.
  • Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31: A faithful wife is a blessing beyond measure. She cares for her family and the needy, and her work brings honor and praise, lasting far beyond beauty.
  • Sirach 2:7-11: Those who trust in the Lord receive mercy and protection. The Lord never abandons those who follow him faithfully; he forgives and saves in times of need.
  • Sirach 3:17-24: Humility brings favor and love, especially as one grows in greatness. Trust what is entrusted to you and avoid matters beyond human understanding, for wisdom comes only with true knowledge.
  • Sirach 26:1-4, 13-16: A virtuous wife is a great blessing, bringing peace, joy, and strength to her husband. Her thoughtful words, grace, and inner beauty light her home with radiance.
  • Isaiah 58:6-11: True fasting means helping the oppressed, feeding the hungry, and caring for the homeless. When we act with mercy, God promises healing, guidance, and unending strength.
  • Jeremiah 20:7-9: Though mocked for sharing God’s word, I cannot stay silent; his message burns within me like fire, impossible to contain.
  • Micah 6:6-8: True worship does not need lavish offerings. Instead, God calls us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with him.
  • Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13: God will protect the humble and just, leaving a remnant who trust in him. They will live in peace, free from lies and harm.

The first readings for the Common of Holy Men and Women during the Easter season focus on unity, faithfulness, and the hope of eternal life. These passages remind us of the close bonds shared among early believers, who lived in harmony and generosity. They also reveal the invitation Christ extends to everyone, calling us to a deep and personal relationship with Him. Finally, the readings for Easter in the Common of Holy Men and Women offer a glimpse of the promises awaiting those who follow God: an everlasting union with Him and the joy of new life. These themes capture the spirit of Easter, celebrating renewal, hope, and God’s abundant love.

• During the Easter season:
  • Acts 4:32-35: The believers shared all they had, supporting each other so no one was in need. They were united in heart and mind, and the apostles testified powerfully.
  • Revelation 3:14b, 20-22: The faithful witness stands at the door, inviting those who open to share fellowship with him. Those who overcome will share in his victory and throne.
  • Revelation 19:1, 5-9a: In heaven, a multitude praises God, celebrating the arrival of the Lamb’s wedding day. The faithful rejoice, and the blessed are invited to this joyful feast.
  • Revelation 21:5-7: God, the beginning and end of all, promises life and blessings to those who remain faithful.

Choices for the Responsorial Psalm for the Common of Holy Men and Women

The responsorial psalms for the Common of Holy Men and Women express gratitude, trust, and reverence for God. Each psalm highlights themes of hope, blessing, and peace for those who follow God with a faithful heart. These verses encourage us to recognize God as our true inheritance and strength, reminding us to praise Him at all times and trust in His protection. Together, the readings in the Common of Holy Men and Women celebrate a life lived in harmony with God’s will, showing that true happiness and peace come from honoring and fearing the Lord.

• Psalm 1: Those who follow God’s ways, rooted in His word, are blessed and flourish, while those who choose wickedness will fade away.
• Psalm 15: Those who live with honesty, act with justice, avoid harm, respect others, reject evil, and treat others fairly will dwell securely with the Lord.
• Psalm 16: My heart is joyful, and I rest secure, for the Lord is my portion, my guide, and my refuge. He will lead me to unending joy in his presence.
• Psalm 34: I will constantly praise the Lord, who answers the humble and rescues the poor. Those who honor him will find joy and receive all they need.
• Psalm 103: I will praise the Lord, who forgives, heals, and surrounds me with mercy. He is patient, kind, and compassionate, remembering our weakness and showing his kindness to those who honor him.
• Psalm 112: Blessed is the one who honors the Lord, living with generosity, justice, and trust. His kindness endures, and his heart is steady, finding strength and peace in the Lord’s ways.
• Psalm 128: Those who honor the Lord and walk in his ways will be blessed with a fruitful life, a strong family, and the Lord’s favor and peace throughout their days.
• Psalm 131: I find peace by trusting in the Lord, calming my soul like a resting child. I place my hope in him now and always.

Choices for the Second Reading for the Common of Holy Men and Women

The second readings for the Common of Holy Men and Women emphasize living in faith, love, and humility. These passages teach that true discipleship requires a heart open to God’s love, guided by compassion, and dedicated to serving others. They encourage believers to put on the “armor of God,” resist worldly pride, and live in harmony with others, focusing on kindness, patience, and unity. These readings in the Common of Holy Men and Women also remind us that faith must be active, expressing itself in works of love and service. Together, they call Catholics to live out their faith with integrity, courage, and a heart centered on Christ.

• Romans 8:26-30: The Spirit helps us in our weakness, praying for us, as God works everything for good for those who love him and live in his purpose.
• 1 Corinthians 1:26-31: God calls the lowly and humble to confound the wise and strong, so no one boasts before him. In Christ, we have true wisdom, righteousness, and redemption.
• 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13: Love is patient, kind, and enduring. Without love, any gift or act is empty. Love never fails; it is greater than faith and hope, and it will last forever.
• 2 Corinthians 10:17-11:2: If we boast, let it be in the Lord, who truly approves us. I am committed to presenting you to Christ as a faithful bride.
• Galatians 2:19-20: I have died to the law to live for God. Now Christ lives in me, and I live by faith in him who gave himself for me.
• Galatians 6:14-16: I boast only in Christ’s cross, through which I am separated from the world. Only becoming a new creation matters; peace and mercy are for those who follow this way.
• Ephesians 3:14-19: I pray that you gain inner strength, rooted in love, to understand Christ’s boundless love and be filled with the fullness of God.
• Ephesians 6:10-13, 18: Rely on the Lord’s strength and put on God’s armor to stand firm against evil. Pray always in the Spirit, remaining watchful and praying for all God’s people.
• Philippians 3:8-14: I consider all things loss for the sake of knowing Christ. I press on toward the goal, leaving the past behind and reaching for God’s call in Christ.
• Philippians 4:4-9: Rejoice in the Lord, be kind, and avoid anxiety. In prayer, trust God, focus on what is good, and live faithfully. God’s peace will guard your heart and mind.
• Colossians 3:12-17: As God’s chosen, wear compassion, patience, and love. Let Christ’s peace guide you, teach each other in gratitude, and do everything in Jesus’ name, giving thanks to God.
• 1 Timothy 5:3-10: Honor true widows, encouraging their families to care for them. Enroll widows known for good works and who are over sixty, and support their needs with compassion and dignity.
• James 2:14-17: Faith without action is meaningless. If we claim to have faith but ignore those in need, our faith is lifeless and incomplete.
• 1 Peter 3:1-9: Wives and husbands should honor and respect each other, living in understanding and compassion. All should be united, humble, and respond to evil with blessing, seeking to inherit God’s blessing.
• 1 Peter 4:7b-11: Be focused and loving, serving others with the gifts God has given. Let all actions and words bring glory to God through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs all glory forever.
• 1 John 3:14-18: We have moved from death to life through love. True love is seen in action, just as Christ laid down his life for us. Let us love through deeds and truth.
• 1 John 4:7-16: God, who is love, sent his Son to give us life. If we love each other, God remains in us. In this way, his love is fulfilled in us.
• 1 John 5:1-5: Believing in Jesus and obeying God’s commandments show our love for God. Our faith, born of God, gives us victory over the world.

Choices for the Gospel for the Common of Holy Men and Women

The Gospel readings for the Common of Holy Men and Women focus on the call to live as true disciples of Christ. These passages encourage believers to embrace humility, service, and a deep love for God and others. Through teachings on topics like self-denial, forgiveness, and devotion, these readings show the qualities of a life centered on God’s kingdom. The readings in the Common of Holy Men and Women emphasize letting our light shine through good deeds, loving unconditionally, and placing God’s will above our own desires. Together, these teachings form a guide for growing in faith, living in service, and walking the path of holiness in everyday life.

• Matthew 5:1-12a: Jesus teaches that those who are humble, merciful, and righteous are blessed, and they will receive God’s kingdom, comfort, mercy, and joy in heaven.
• Matthew 5:13-16: Jesus calls his disciples to be salt and light for the world, showing God’s goodness through their actions and bringing glory to the Father.
• Matthew 7:21-27: Jesus teaches that only those who do the Father’s will enter the Kingdom. Faith requires action; without it, one’s foundation is weak and cannot withstand life’s trials.
• Matthew 11:25-30: Jesus invites those who are weary to come to him for rest, promising comfort and peace to those who take up his gentle and humble way.
• Matthew 13:44-46: Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a priceless treasure or pearl, worth sacrificing everything to gain.
• Matthew 16:24-27: Jesus calls his followers to deny themselves and take up their cross, warning that gaining worldly riches is worthless if it costs one’s soul.
• Matthew 18:1-5: Jesus teaches his disciples that the greatest in the kingdom of heaven are those who humble themselves like children and welcome others with a humble heart.
• Matthew 19:3-12: Jesus teaches that marriage is a union created by God that should not be broken. Only those called to it can fully accept the commitment of marriage or celibacy for God’s kingdom.
• Matthew 19:27-29: Jesus promises that those who sacrifice for his sake will be richly rewarded and receive eternal life in the age to come.
• Matthew 22:34-40: Jesus teaches that the greatest commandments are to love God fully and to love one’s neighbor as oneself. All other commandments depend on these two.
• Matthew 25:1-13: Jesus teaches through the parable that we must always be prepared, for we do not know when the kingdom of heaven will come.
• Matthew 25:14-30: Jesus teaches that we must use what God has entrusted to us. Faithfulness brings reward, while neglect brings loss and separation.
• Matthew 25:31-46: Jesus teaches that our care for those in need is seen as care for him. Those who serve others inherit eternal life, while those who neglect them face judgment.
• Mark 3:31-35: Jesus teaches that true family are those who do the will of God, joining him in spiritual kinship.
• Mark 9:34-37: Jesus teaches that true greatness comes from humble service, welcoming others as if welcoming him and the One who sent him.
• Mark 10:13-16: Jesus welcomes the children, teaching that the Kingdom of God belongs to those who receive it with childlike openness and trust.
• Mark 10:17-30: Jesus teaches that following him requires giving up attachments, especially to wealth. God’s kingdom is difficult to enter, but with God, all things are possible.
• Luke 6:27-38: Jesus teaches his disciples to love without limits, show mercy, and avoid judgment. We should treat others as we wish to be treated, for God’s reward will be generous.
• Luke 9:57-62: Jesus teaches that following him requires total commitment, without looking back or delaying for other attachments. The kingdom of God comes first.
• Luke 10:38-42: Jesus teaches Martha that Mary’s choice to listen is more important than worrying over many tasks, showing that devotion comes first.
• Luke 12:32-34: Jesus tells his disciples to trust in God’s kingdom, storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, for our hearts follow what we truly value.
• Luke 12:35-40: Jesus urges his disciples to stay vigilant and prepared, for the Son of Man will come at an unknown hour. The watchful will be blessed.
• Luke 14:25-33: Jesus teaches that being his disciple requires putting him above all else, including family and possessions, and being prepared to carry one’s own cross.
• John 15:1-8: Jesus teaches his disciples that they must stay united to him, like branches to a vine, to bear fruit. Without him, they can do nothing; with him, they glorify the Father.
• John 15:9-17: Jesus calls his disciples to remain in his love, follow his commandments, and love one another as friends. He chose them to bear lasting fruit and experience complete joy.
• John 17:20-26: Jesus prays for all believers to be united in love, reflecting the oneness of the Father and Son, so the world may know God’s love and glory.

The Bible

A Catholic approach to reading the Bible involves seeing Scripture as God’s word, meant to guide and inspire daily life. Catholics read the Bible within the context of Church tradition and teaching, seeking a deeper understanding of God’s message through prayer, study, and reflection. The Common of Holy Men and Women fits well within this approach because it highlights passages that show the lives of saints who lived in close relationship with God. By reflecting on these readings, Catholics can find encouragement to grow in holiness, serve others, and deepen their faith, following the saints’ example of faithful and humble discipleship.

More About the Lectionary

The Common of Holy Men and Women is part of the lectionary. Learn more about how Catholics read from the Bible at Mass. What is the difference between the Bible and a lectionary? How is the lectionary arranged? What translation is used?

What is the Common of Holy Men and Women?

The Common of Holy Men and Women is a collection of readings used in the Catholic liturgy to celebrate saints’ feast days. When saints do not have specific readings, these selections are used to honor their lives and virtues.

When is the Common of Holy Men and Women used?

The Common of Holy Men and Women is used on feast days for saints without unique readings. The priest may choose readings from the Common of Holy Men and Women to celebrate these holy lives.

What themes do these readings from the Common of Holy Men and Women focus on?

The readings in the Common of Holy Men and Women focus on holiness, service, humility, trust in God, and dedication to the Kingdom of God. They show examples of living in faith, following Jesus, and loving others deeply.

Why do some saints have special readings?

Some saints, like major figures in the Church, have specific readings called “propers” that reflect their unique life stories or contributions. However, for many saints the readings from the Common of Holy Men and Women are used.

What can we learn from these readings from the Common of Holy Men and Women?

These readings from the Common of Holy Men and Women teach us how to live as true disciples of Jesus. They encourage us to grow in holiness, serve others with love, and trust God with all our hearts.

Why are some readings in the Common of Holy Men and Women only used during the Easter season?

During Easter, the readings in the Common of Holy Men and Women focus on themes of resurrection, new life, and unity in Christ, highlighting the victory of saints with Jesus.

How can the Common of Holy Men and Women help in our daily lives?

These readings from the Common of Holy Men and Women offer guidance for living in love, kindness, and trust in God. They encourage us to serve others, be patient, and keep our focus on God.

How does the Common of Holy Men and Women honor the saints?

By selecting readings for the Common of Holy Men and Women that highlight the virtues of saints, the Church celebrates their lives and inspires us to follow their example of faithfulness.

Do the readings in the Common of Holy Men and Women mention specific saints?

No, these readings in the Common of Holy Men and Women do not mention specific saints. Instead, they reflect general themes that apply to the holy lives of many saints.

The Common of Holy Men and Women is a special set of readings in the Catholic Church used to celebrate the lives of saints. When saints do not have specific readings assigned to their feast days, the priest can choose from these passages to honor the saint’s life and example. The readings highlight the core qualities that mark a saint’s life, such as holiness, trust in God, humility, and a heart devoted to service. They help Catholics remember and celebrate the powerful legacy of saints and the deep faith they lived out.

The first readings in the Common of Holy Men and Women include stories and teachings from the Old Testament, focusing on the call to live a holy life. These passages show God’s people setting out on journeys of faith, learning to trust Him, and serving others. During the Easter season, the first readings focus on unity in Christ and the promise of eternal life, themes that reflect the victory and hope found in Christ’s resurrection. The responsorial psalms in the Common of Holy Men and Women add prayers of praise, gratitude, and trust, guiding Catholics to seek God as their refuge and strength.

The second readings in the Common emphasize Christian virtues such as humility, love, and dedication to service. They remind us that following Jesus means living out our faith in ways that make a positive impact on others. The Gospel readings in the Common offer teachings from Jesus on discipleship, mercy, and loving others. Together, these readings in the Common of Holy Men and Women inspire believers to live with a strong, faithful commitment to God. By honoring the saints, Catholics are encouraged to grow in holiness and find inspiration in the lives of these holy men and women.

The Common of Holy Men and Women offers us a beautiful way to honor the lives of saints and grow in our own faith. These readings inspire us to walk the path of holiness, love, and service to others. Have you felt inspired by a saint’s example or by these readings? We invite you to share your experiences in the comments. Let’s reflect on the lessons we can learn from the saints and support each other as we grow in our own journeys of faith.