4th Sunday of Advent

The 4th Sunday of Advent invites us to prepare our hearts for Jesus. We reflect on the Annunciation, where Mary welcomed the mystery of God’s plan, becoming the new Ark of the Covenant. We are called to deepen our faith, accepting that some things are beyond our understanding. This Sunday’s themes also emphasize hospitality and family, reminding us to welcome others warmly, just as Mary welcomed Jesus. It’s a time to consider how events in our lives fit into God’s bigger plan. As we enter this final week of Advent, we make room for Christ in our hearts and homes.

Click on the appropriate year below to see resources, themes, homilies, and more. See how to determine the correct year.

4th Sunday of Advent Year A
4th Sunday of Advent Year B
4th Sunday of Advent Year C

Mass Readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A

See resources, homilies, and more for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year A readings here.

First Reading – Isaiah 7:10-14: God told Ahaz to ask for a sign. Ahaz refused, but Isaiah said God would give a sign: a virgin will bear a son named Emmanuel.
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 24: The Lord owns the earth and all who live in it. Those with pure hearts and clean hands can stand in his holy place and receive his blessings.

Second Reading – Romans 1:1-7: Paul, a servant of Jesus, greets the believers in Rome. He emphasizes Jesus’ divine and human natures and wishes them grace and peace.
Gospel – Matthew 1:18-24: Joseph planned to divorce Mary quietly when he found out she was pregnant. An angel told him in a dream to take her as his wife because the child was from the Holy Spirit.

Mass Readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B

See resources, homilies, and more for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year B readings here.

First Reading – 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8B-12, 14A, 16: God reminds David of his humble beginnings and his journey to kingship, promising an enduring dynasty and a peaceful kingdom for Israel, signifying an everlasting covenant.
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 89: I celebrate the Lord’s enduring kindness and faithfulness, affirming His eternal covenant with David, promising an everlasting dynasty and unwavering mercy to his descendants.
Second Reading – Romans 16:25-27: God strengthens us through the gospel and Jesus Christ, revealing the long-hidden mystery now known globally, leading to obedient faith. To God be eternal glory through Christ. Amen.

Gospel – Luke 1:26-38: The angel Gabriel was sent by God to Mary in Nazareth, greeting her with divine favor. Mary, initially troubled, learned she would miraculously conceive Jesus, the promised Son of God and eternal King in David’s lineage. Gabriel reassured her through the Holy Spirit’s role and Elizabeth’s similar miracle, affirming God’s omnipotence. Mary accepted her divine calling with humble submission, embracing God’s will.

Mass Readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year C

See resources, homilies, and more for the 4th Sunday of Advent Year C readings here.

First Reading – Micah 5:1-4A: God promises a ruler from Bethlehem, whose origins are ancient. He will shepherd Israel, bring peace, and his greatness will reach the ends of the earth.

Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 80: We ask God to show His power, care for His people, and give us new life. We seek His presence and salvation.
Second Reading – Hebrews 10:5-10: Christ’s arrival meant replacing old sacrifices with his own body, fulfilling God’s will. His sacrifice made us holy once and for all.
Gospel – Luke 3:10-18: Mary visited Elizabeth, whose baby leaped for joy upon hearing Mary. Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, blessed Mary for her faith and for bearing the Lord.

More About Lectionary Cycles

Learn more about the difference between a Bible and a Lectionary, how the Lectionary is arranged, and translations of the Bible used at Mass.

How to Determine the Liturgical Year

The liturgical cycle is a three-year sequence of A, B, and C.

2024 is Year B

2025 is Year C
2026 is Year A
2027 is Year B

2028 is Year C
2029 is Year A
2030 is Year B

2031 is Year C
… and so on