April 2023 is Year A in the Sunday liturgical cycle and Year 1 in the weekday cycle. See Mass readings resources for specific Sundays and feast days in for April 2023 here. Learn more about lectionary cycles from the USCCB.
The liturgical journey of April 2023 begins with Palm Sunday, reflecting on Jesus' humble entry and the paradox of celebration and suffering. Holy Thursday focuses on service and the Last Supper, leading to Good Friday's solemn remembrance of Jesus' crucifixion and sacrifice. The quiet anticipation of Holy Saturday precedes Easter Sunday's joyous celebration of resurrection, offering new life and hope. The following Sundays extend this message: Divine Mercy Sunday emphasizes forgiveness, the 3rd Sunday of Easter invites deeper discipleship, and Good Shepherd Sunday portrays Jesus as our guiding shepherd, calling us to follow Him with trust and confidence.
Sundays and Holy Days in April 2023
Palm Sunday – Passion Sunday
Sunday April 2, 2023
On Palm Sunday in April 2023, the readings explore the deep contrasts of Jesus' experience: celebrated, then betrayed. The narrative begins with His joyful entrance into Jerusalem, yet this jubilation shifts dramatically towards His ultimate sacrifice on the cross, emphasizing themes of servitude, kingship, and unconditional love. The scripture invites us to ponder Jesus' humble kingship, characterized by His peaceful entry on a donkey, a stark contrast to worldly power symbols. It calls us to reflect on our response to His sacrifice, urging us to embody love, humility, and selflessness. This day serves as a profound reminder of Jesus' enduring love and our journey towards Easter, emphasizing both the joy of His welcome and the solemnity of His Passion.
Holy Thursday
Thursday April 6, 2023
Holy Thursday in April 2023 commemorates Jesus' Last Supper with His apostles, marking the establishment of the Eucharist and the priesthood. This day is enveloped in themes of service, humility, and sacrifice. During the washing of the feet, we're reminded of Jesus' call to love and serve one another, mirroring His unconditional love and humility. It's a day reflecting on the institution of the Eucharist, where Jesus shares His body and blood, setting the foundation for Holy Communion. Holy Thursday invites Catholics to ponder the depth of Jesus' sacrifice and His teachings on servitude, laying the groundwork for the events of the Easter Triduum.
Good Friday
Friday April 7, 2023
On Good Friday in April 2023, Catholics solemnly remember Jesus Christ's crucifixion and death. It's a day of fasting and abstinence, marked by a special liturgy instead of Mass. This service includes the reading of Christ's Passion, veneration of the cross, and distribution of Communion, previously consecrated on Holy Thursday. Reflecting on Jesus' sacrifice, this day embodies deep spiritual themes of suffering, redemption, and love. It’s a time to meditate on Jesus' ultimate act of love and the profound mystery of the cross, offering believers a moment to appreciate the depth of God's love and the hope that springs from sacrifice.
Holy Saturday
Saturday April 8, 2023
Holy Saturday in April 2023 is a day of quiet reflection and hopeful anticipation, situated between the sorrow of Good Friday and Easter Sunday's joy. With no Mass, it encourages a silent contemplation of Jesus Christ's death and the promise of His Resurrection. This day embodies the Christian faith's heart, offering a moment to mourn the Savior's loss while holding onto the imminent victory over death. It's a time of waiting, akin to the disciples' experience, filled with grief yet clinging to the hope of something greater. Holy Saturday teaches the valuable lessons of patience, trust, and the assurance that light always follows darkness, leading into the Easter Vigil's celebration of life's triumph over death.
Easter
Sunday April 9, 2023
Easter in April 2023 marks the zenith of the Christian liturgical calendar, celebrating Jesus Christ's resurrection, a foundational belief symbolizing redemption and eternal life. Central to this celebration is Easter Sunday, radiating with the joy of the Risen Lord, and initiating the Easter Octave—eight days of continuous celebration, each regarded as Easter Day itself. This period beckons believers into profound joy and reflection on Christ's victory over death. It's a time of renewal and deep spiritual engagement, inviting us into a fresh encounter with the Risen Christ and the transformative power of His resurrection, fostering a path to spiritual rejuvenation and a deeper faith experience.
2nd Sunday of Easter - Divine Mercy Sunday
Sunday April 16, 2023
For Divine Mercy Sunday in April 2023, the Year A readings beautifully highlight God's infinite mercy. The first reading showcases the early Christians living in harmony, sharing generously, while the psalm echoes God's everlasting love. The second reading strengthens our faith in the resurrection, and the Gospel tenderly depicts Jesus offering mercy to Thomas amidst his doubts. This day serves as a potent reminder of the resurrection's pivotal role, showcasing divine mercy, the importance of faith, and the call to witness God's forgiveness. It’s a day that encourages us to trust deeply in Jesus, embracing His peace and mercy in every aspect of our lives.
3rd Sunday of Easter
Sunday April 23, 2023
For the 3rd Sunday of Easter in April 2023, Year A readings inspire us to embrace discipleship fervently. Peter's bold proclamation of the Gospel opens the narrative, setting a tone of courageous witness. The psalm assures us of God's guidance on this journey of faith. The second reading deepens our understanding of Jesus' sacrifice, emphasizing its purpose to grant us new life. The Gospel vividly recounts the encounter of two disciples with the risen Jesus on the road to Emmaus, a profound reminder of recognizing Jesus in the Eucharist and in our lives. This collection of readings calls us to witness, fellowship, and continuous growth in our walk with Christ, urging us to see the divine in everyday moments and to live out the teachings of Jesus with renewed commitment.
4th Sunday of Easter – Good Shepherd Sunday
Sunday April 30, 2023
In April 2023, the 4th Sunday of Easter, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday, offers readings that depict Jesus Christ as our compassionate shepherd. These readings urge us towards conversion, illuminate God's nurturing care, reassure us of our welcome return to the Lord, and portray Jesus as the Good Shepherd who not only leads us but also protects us from deceitful guides. This Sunday encourages us to place our trust in Jesus, seeking His direction and wisdom in our lives, reminding us of the deep, personal relationship He desires with each of us, akin to a shepherd's bond with his sheep.
April 2023
| Sun | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ||||||
| 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 |
| 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 |
| 30 |
Saturday April 1, 2023
Saturday of the 5th Week of Lent
The readings for Saturday of the 5th week of Lent speak of the themes of restoration and reunification, but from different perspectives. In Ezekiel, the prophet is given a vision of God's plan to reunite the two kingdoms of Israel and to establish a new covenant with his people. This vision is one of hope and promise, but also of accountability, as the "sons of wickedness" are to be separated from the rest of the people.Sunday April 2, 2023
Palm Sunday Year A - Passion Sunday
The readings for Palm Sunday Year A (Passion Sunday) focus on the stark contrast between the crowds love for Jesus and then their act of abandonment. So these readings would lead us to reflect on Jesus' act of sacrificial love, a revelation of the nature of God. Here are some ideas.Monday April 3, 2023
Monday of Holy Week
As we read the gospel for Monday of Holy Week, we are struck by the extravagant love and devotion shown by Mary towards Jesus. She takes a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard and anoints Jesus' feet with it, then wipes his feet with her hair. This act of love is a foreshadowing of Jesus' imminent death and burial, and it is a poignant reminder of the deep connection between love and sacrifice.Tuesday April 4, 2023
Tuesday of Holy Week
The Mass readings for Tuesday of Holy Week invite us to contemplate the mystery of Jesus' suffering and death, as well as the significance of his sacrifice for our salvation.Wednesday April 5, 2023
Wednesday of Holy Week
The gospel for Wednesday of Holy Week tells the story of Jesus' betrayal by Judas Iscariot. In this passage, we see the intimate setting of the Last Supper, where Jesus is gathered with his disciples to share a meal before his crucifixion. As they are eating, Jesus announces that one of them will betray him. Judas responds by asking if it is him, and Jesus confirms that it is.Thursday April 6, 2023
Holy Thursday
On Holy Thursday, Catholics remember the last supper of Jesus Christ with his apostles. This marks the establishment of the sacrament of the Eucharist and the priesthood.Friday April 7, 2023
Good Friday
On Good Friday, Catholics remember the death by crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This is a solemn day of fast and abstinence.Saturday April 8, 2023
Holy Saturday
Holy Saturday is the day between Good Friday and Easter. It is a mix of both sorrow for the suffering of Jesus Christ and expectation of his rising.Sunday April 9, 2023
Easter Sunday
Easter is the most significant celebration in the church year. Catholics celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. Easter is actually an octave, lasting eight days.Monday April 10, 2023
Monday in the Octave of Easter
The Gospel passage for Monday in the Octave of Easter tells of Mary Magdalene and the other Mary's encounter with the risen Jesus. Joy and hope that comes with the Resurrection. The women's fear and confusion are replaced by a profound sense of awe and worship when they see Jesus alive again. Jesus' words of comfort and reassurance, "Do not be afraid," remind us that He is with us always, even in our most difficult and frightening moments.Tuesday April 11, 2023
Tuesday in the Octave of Easter
The gospel for Tuesday in the Octave of Easter recounts the story of Mary Magdalene visiting the tomb of Jesus on the morning of the third day after his crucifixion, only to find it empty. She is overcome with grief and confusion until Jesus appears to her, revealing himself as the risen Lord.Wednesday April 12, 2023
Wednesday in the Octave of Easter
The readings for Wednesday in the Octave of Easter invite us to reflect on our faith, doubt, evangelization, Eucharist, and hospitality.Thursday April 13, 2023
Thursday in the Octave of Easter
The readings for Thursday in the Octave of Easter invite us to reflect on the centrality of the resurrection of Jesus in our faith. Through his resurrection, Jesus conquered death and sin, and opened the way to eternal life for all who believe in him.Friday April 14, 2023
Friday in the Octave of Easter
The readings for Friday in the Octave of Easter invite us to reflect on the power of faith in Jesus Christ and the transformative impact of encountering his presence in our lives.Saturday April 15, 2023
Saturday in the Octave of Easter
The gospel for Saturday in the Octave of Easter tells the story of Jesus' appearance to Mary Magdalene after his resurrection and his commissioning of the apostles to preach the gospel to all nations.Sunday April 16, 2023
Divine Mercy Sunday Year A
The readings for Divine Mercy Sunday Year A (2nd Sunday of Easter) help us reflect on the boundless mercy of God. Some topics for this weekend include how we see ourselves and others as God's family. We also consider God love for us. Here are some ideas.Monday April 17, 2023
Monday of the 2nd Week of Easter
In the gospel for Monday of the 2nd Week of Easter, Jesus emphasizes the need for spiritual rebirth in order to enter the Kingdom of God. This rebirth comes through faith in Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. As Catholics, we understand this to mean that our salvation is not something we can achieve through our own efforts, but is a gift from God that we receive through faith.Tuesday April 18, 2023
Tuesday of the 2nd Week of Easter
The readings for Tuesday of the 2nd week of Easter provide us with insights into the nature of Christian discipleship, the importance of faith, and the virtues of charity and generosity.Wednesday April 19, 2023
Wednesday of the 2nd Week of Easter
In the readings for Wednesday of the 2nd Week of Easter, we see contrasting situations of persecution and redemption, highlighting the power of faith and the love of God. In Acts 5:17-26, the apostles are arrested for proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ, and their lives are threatened. Despite the opposition they face, they remain steadfast in their faith and trust in God. In John 3:16-21, we hear of God's ultimate act of love, as He sent His only Son to die for our sins, so that we may have eternal life through Him.Thursday April 20, 2023
Thursday of the 2nd Week of Easter
The readings for Thursday of the 2nd week of Easter highlight the significance of following God's commands and acknowledging the authority and divinity of Jesus. They also illustrate the negative outcomes of disobeying or rejecting the truth and emphasize the importance of believing in Jesus as the means to attain eternal life. Overall, these readings emphasize the importance of being faithful to God and having trust in Jesus Christ as the way to salvation.Friday April 21, 2023
Friday of the 2nd Week of Easter
The readings for Friday of the 2nd Week of Easter remind us of God's ability to use even the smallest of offerings for His great works. In the Gospel, we see Jesus take five barley loaves and two fish, a meager amount of food, and use them to feed thousands of people. Similarly, in the first reading, we see the early Christian community giving what they could to spread the good news, and God using their offerings to bring about great growth.Saturday April 22, 2023
Saturday of the 2nd Week of Easter
The readings for Saturday of the 2nd Week of Easter highlight the importance of trust in God's power and provision, recognizing and utilizing the gifts of others, empowering others to serve the community, delegation of tasks to better serve the community, and prioritizing the primary mission.Sunday April 23, 2023
3rd Sunday of Easter Year A
The readings for the 3rd Sunday of Easter Year A encourage us to truly walk the path of discipleship. Fellowship, and letting God lead are themes for this weekend.Monday April 24, 2023
Monday of the 3rd Week of Easter
In the readings for Monday of the 3rd Week of Easter, we are reminded of the importance of bearing witness to Christ through our words and actions.Tuesday April 25, 2023
St. Mark the Evangelist
St. Mark the Evangelist, the author of the Gospel of Mark, is revered in the Catholic Church for his commitment to spreading the Gospel message and founding the church in Alexandria, Egypt. His legacy serves as an inspiration for Christians to follow in his footsteps by sharing the message of Jesus Christ and living a life of service to God and others.Wednesday April 26, 2023
Wednesday of the 3rd Week of Easter
The readings for Wednesday of the 3rd Week of Easter offer important insights and teachings for Catholics to reflect upon, including the early Church's perseverance despite persecution and Jesus' proclamation as the bread of life.Thursday April 27, 2023
Thursday of the 3rd Week of Easter
In the readings for Thursday of the 3rd Week of Easter, we see how the Holy Spirit leads and guides believers to encounter others and to come to faith in Jesus Christ. We also see the importance of scripture in understanding and proclaiming the gospel, and the centrality of Jesus Christ as the source of salvation and eternal life.Friday April 28, 2023
Friday of the 3rd Week of Easter
The readings for Friday of the 3rd Week of Easter emphasize the themes of conversion, transformation, and the power of Jesus' message.Saturday April 29, 2023
Saturday of the 3rd Week of Easter
The Mass readings for Saturday of the 3rd Week of Easter invite us to reflect on the power of faith, the transformative nature of God's grace, and the gift of the EucharistSunday April 30, 2023
4th Sunday of Easter Year A - Good Shepherd Sunday
The readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter Year A (Good Shepherd Sunday) remind us that Jesus Christ leads us through the gate of salvation.
Leave a Reply