The Common of Martyrs

The Common of Martyrs is a special set of readings used at Mass to honor martyrs. In the Catholic Church, martyrs are those who gave up their lives for their faith in Jesus. They are celebrated because they showed great courage and love for God. On their feast days, the Church remembers their sacrifice and commitment to Christ.

Some saints, especially famous martyrs, have special readings just for their feast days. These readings are called “propers.” But not every martyr has unique readings assigned to them. When this is the case, the priest can use readings from the Common of Martyrs. This allows the Church to celebrate all martyrs, even those without specific feast-day readings.

The readings in the Common of Martyrs focus on certain themes. They highlight sacrifice, holiness, and trust in God. Martyrs gave everything they had, even their lives, because they believed in God’s promises. Their stories remind us that faith is worth every cost. By choosing these readings, the Church shows that the martyrs’ courage and devotion are examples for all Catholics.

These readings also help us to remember what real faith can look like. The martyrs stood firm in the face of threats and danger. They trusted God even when life was hard. The Common of Martyrs brings these stories to life, helping us to see that their strength came from God. Their faith inspires us to be brave and to trust God in our own lives, too.

Choices for the First Reading for the Common of Martyrs

The first readings for the Common of Martyrs outside of Easter celebrate the strength and courage of those who stayed faithful to God despite suffering and persecution. Each of these readings tells of individuals who faced great trials, yet refused to abandon their faith. They stand as examples of loyalty and trust in God, showing that even in the face of death, true believers hold firmly to their hope in Him. These passages remind us of the enduring promise of God’s love and protection for those who remain steadfast, and they inspire us to live with the same courage.

• When it is not the Easter season these readings are used for the Common of Martyrs:
  • 2 Chronicles 24:18-22: The people of Judah abandoned God for idols, rejecting warnings from the prophets. Zechariah, filled with God’s spirit, rebuked them, but they conspired against him, leading to his death by stoning.
  • 2 Maccabees 6:18, 21, 24-31: Eleazar refused to compromise his faith, even under threat of death. By accepting suffering, he left a powerful example of courage and fidelity to God for his people.
  • 2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 9-14: Seven brothers courageously endured torture rather than break God’s law, trusting in God to raise them again. They boldly faced death, while warning their persecutors of judgment to come.
  • 2 Maccabees 7:1, 20-23, 27b-29: A mother urged her seven sons to remain faithful to God’s law, enduring their deaths with hope in God’s promise to restore life to those who suffer for him.
  • Wisdom 3:1-9: The just are held safe by God, enduring trials with hope in him. Though they seem to suffer, they will be blessed, shining like sparks and remaining in his love forever.
  • Sirach 51:1-8: I thank God, my Savior, for being my protector in times of great danger. Though I faced death and had no one to help, he saved me by his mercy.

During the Easter season, the first readings for the Common of Martyrs emphasize the victory and eternal reward awaiting those who have suffered for their faith. These passages highlight the joy and triumph of martyrs who, having endured trials, now share in the glory of Christ’s resurrection. They remind us that death is not the end for those who die in Christ. Through these visions and stories, the Church celebrates the hope of eternal life and the fulfillment of God’s promises to His faithful servants, who are now at rest with Him.

• During the Easter season these readings are used for the Common of Martyrs:
  • Acts 7:55-60: Stephen, seeing a vision of Jesus in heaven, was stoned by the crowd. As he died, he entrusted his spirit to Jesus and asked forgiveness for his attackers.
  • Revelation 7:9-17: In John’s vision, a great multitude worships God and the Lamb. These faithful ones, purified through trials, are promised protection, life-giving water, and everlasting comfort from God.
  • Revelation 12:10-12b: Also from John’s vision, salvation and God’s Kingdom are proclaimed as the accuser is defeated. The faithful conquer through Christ’s sacrifice, even unto death, and heaven rejoices.
  • Revelation 21:5-7: God declares all things renewed and offers life-giving water to those who thirst. The faithful will inherit his promises and be his children forever.

Choices for the Responsorial Psalm for the Common of Martyrs

The responsorial psalms for the Common of Martyrs express deep trust and gratitude to God, who is a refuge in times of trouble. These psalms reflect the martyrs’ reliance on God’s strength and protection, even in the face of suffering. They celebrate His power to rescue, His mercy for those who call on Him, and the joy He brings to the faithful. In these verses, we see the martyrs’ confidence that, though they face hardship, God will bring them freedom, joy, and lasting peace.

• Psalm 31: I place my life in God’s hands, trusting him as my refuge and redeemer. I rejoice in his mercy and ask for rescue, finding strength in his faithful love.
• Psalm 34: I praise the Lord, who rescues me and fills me with joy. He answers the cries of the lowly, bringing safety and freedom from fear to those who trust in him.
• Psalm 124: If the Lord had not been with us, we would have been overcome. But he broke the trap and rescued us, giving us freedom and help in his name.
• Psalm 126: The Lord brought us out of captivity, filling us with laughter and joy. Though we may sow in sorrow, we will reap in joy, returning with a bountiful harvest.

Choices for the Second Reading for the Common of Martyrs

The second readings for the Common of Martyrs focus on endurance, faith, and the hope of sharing in Christ’s glory. These passages remind us that hardships can deepen our trust in God and unite us with Jesus, who suffered for us. They affirm that nothing—not suffering, persecution, or even death—can separate us from God’s love. Through these readings, the Church highlights the strength that comes from faith, the blessing of perseverance, and the promise of eternal life for those who remain steadfast in following Christ.

• Romans 5:1-5: By faith, we have peace with God through Jesus and rejoice in the hope of his glory. Our hardships strengthen us, and God’s love fills our hearts.
• Romans 8:31b-39: God, who gave his own Son for us, justifies and defends us. Nothing—neither hardship nor power nor any created thing—can ever separate us from his love in Christ.
• 2 Corinthians 4:7-15: We endure hardship, bearing Christ’s death in our bodies so that his life may be shown. Trusting in God’s power, we believe he will raise us with Jesus.
• 2 Corinthians 6:4-10: As servants of God, we endure hardships and persecution, always rejoicing, and relying on God’s strength. Though often rejected, we live truthfully and abundantly, enriching others through our faith.
• 2 Timothy 2:8-13; 3:10-12: Though suffering for the Gospel, I endure for others’ salvation. Through persecution, God remains faithful and saves us. If we persevere with Christ, we will share in his glory forever.
• Hebrews 10:32-36: Hold onto your confidence, enduring all hardships, knowing there is lasting reward. God’s promise awaits those who stand firm in faith.
• James 1:2-4, 12: Rejoice in trials, knowing they strengthen faith and build perseverance. Those who endure will receive the crown of life, a promise from God to those who love him.
• 1 Peter 3:14-17: Even if you suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Be ready to share the reason for your hope, with respect and a clear conscience, trusting in God’s will.
• 1 Peter 4:12-19: Do not be surprised by trials. Rejoice in sharing Christ’s sufferings and glorify God if you suffer for his name. Entrust your soul to God, continuing in faithful deeds.
• 1 John 5:1-5: Those who believe in Jesus as the Son of God are born of God. By loving and obeying God, they overcome the world through faith.

Choices for the Gospel for the Common of Martyrs

The Gospel readings for the Common of Martyrs reveal Jesus’ teachings on discipleship, sacrifice, and courage. He prepared his followers to face trials, reminding them that loyalty to him would bring hardship and even division. Yet, Jesus promised strength through God’s Spirit and eternal life for those who stay true to him. These readings invite believers to embrace the cross, trusting in God’s protection and the lasting reward of faithfulness. Through these words, Jesus encourages his followers to stand firm, finding life and hope in giving themselves fully to God.

• Matthew 10:17-22: Jesus told his Apostles they would face great trials, betrayal, and hatred because of him. But they would be given words by God’s Spirit, and those who remain faithful will be saved.
• Matthew 10:28-33: Jesus called the Twelve to proclaim truth without fear, trusting in God’s care for them. He reminded them of their value and promised to honor those who stand firm in their faith.
• Matthew 10:34-39: Jesus warned his disciples that following him would cause division and even conflicts within families. He called them to love him fully, accepting the cross, and promised that those who give up their lives for him will find true life.
• Luke 9:23-26: Jesus invited everyone to follow him through self-denial, carrying their cross each day. He promised true life to those who give up their lives for him and warned against seeking worldly gain at the cost of one’s soul.
• John 12:24-26: Jesus taught that true life comes through sacrifice, like a grain of wheat that dies to bear fruit. Those who serve and follow him will find eternal life and receive honor from God.
• John 15:18-21: Jesus warned his disciples that, as he was rejected, so would they be, because he chose them out of the world. He reminded them to expect resistance and persecution on account of his name.
• John 17:11b-19: Jesus prayed that his disciples would be protected and kept united, consecrated in God’s truth, and filled with his joy. He asked that they be guarded from evil while they remained in the world, set apart by God’s word.

The Bible

A Catholic approach to reading the Bible involves seeing it as both the Word of God and as guidance for daily life. Catholics read Scripture within the Church’s tradition, seeking to understand God’s message in each passage. This approach encourages not only reflection but also action, calling believers to grow in holiness and imitate the examples in Scripture. In the case of the Common of Martyrs, this means reading the stories of martyrs with a focus on their courage, faith, and trust in God. These readings aren’t only historical; they are examples for us, showing how faith can be lived out, especially in challenging times.

More About the Lectionary

The Common of Martyrs 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 Martyrs?

The Common of Martyrs is a set of readings used at Mass to honor martyrs. It includes passages from the Bible that reflect the themes of sacrifice, faith, and trust in God. These readings help us remember the courage and dedication of those who died for their faith.

When is the Common of Martyrs used in the liturgy?

The Common of Martyrs is used on feast days for martyrs who do not have specific readings assigned to them. The priest may choose from these readings for these feast days.

Why do these readings focus on sacrifice and courage?

Martyrs gave their lives for their faith. These readings honor their bravery and remind us of the strength that comes from trusting in God. They also encourage us to stay strong in our own faith, even when life is hard.

Are the readings different during the Easter season?

Yes, the Common of Martyrs has specific first readings for the Easter season. These focus on the resurrection and eternal life, emphasizing the victory of martyrs in Christ.

What themes are highlighted in the Common of Martyrs?

The readings emphasize sacrifice, courage, trust in God, and the hope of eternal life. They show us examples of people who stayed faithful to God, even in times of suffering.

How can the Common of Martyrs inspire modern Catholics?

These readings show us examples of unwavering faith and courage. They remind us to be strong in our faith and to trust God, even in hard times.

The Common of Martyrs is a selection of readings used in the Catholic liturgy to honor martyrs. Martyrs are those who gave their lives for their faith in Jesus Christ. Some saints, especially well-known martyrs, have special readings (called “propers”) chosen just for their feast days. However, many martyrs do not. For these feast days, priests can use readings from the Common of Martyrs to celebrate the martyrs’ faith and sacrifice.

The readings in the Common of Martyrs focus on powerful themes like sacrifice, courage, and faith. These stories, psalms, and teachings show us examples of people who trusted in God even during difficult times. The first readings come from the Old Testament and the New Testament letters, telling stories of steadfastness and loyalty to God. The responsorial psalms included in the Common express joy, trust, and gratitude, offering comfort to those who face trials. The second readings reflect on the endurance of early Christians, teaching us the value of perseverance and the hope of eternal life.

During the Easter season, the readings for martyrs shift to celebrate their final victory in Christ. These selections from Acts and Revelation emphasize resurrection and eternal life. They show us that death is not the end for those who stay faithful to Christ. Through these readings, we see that martyrs are a model of faith for all Catholics. They inspire us to trust God fully and to stand firm in our faith, even in hard times.

Have you been inspired by the courage and faith of the martyrs? The Common of Martyrs readings remind us of the powerful impact of faith in the face of trials. We invite you to share how these readings have touched you or influenced your life. Join the conversation by leaving a comment and sharing your own experiences. Let’s reflect on the lessons of courage, hope, and trust in God that the martyrs have given us.