7th Sunday of Easter

In most dioceses in the United States, the observance of the Solemnity of the Ascension is moved to the following Sunday, superseding the 7th Sunday of Easter. See readings and resources for the Ascension of the Lord instead.

We are created with a longing for God. Prayer is a way to connect with God. Even though Jesus is not with us in human form, we can speak to Him every day. This is the focus of the 7th Sunday of Easter.

Click on the appropriate year below to see resources, themes, homilies, games, lesson plans, and more for your youth ministry, classroom, or family church. See how to determine the correct year.

7th Sunday of Easter Year A
7th Sunday of Easter Year B
7th Sunday of Easter Year C

Mass Readings for the 7th Sunday of Easter Year A

See resources, homilies, and more for the 7th Sunday of Easter Year A readings here.

First Reading – Acts 1:12-14: After Jesus’ ascension, the apostles returned to Jerusalem and prayed together in the upper room with some women, Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.

Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 27: Trust in the Lord, seeking to dwell in his house and behold his beauty, calling on him for mercy and believing in his goodness.
Second Reading – 1 Peter 4:13-16: Rejoice when you share in Christ’s sufferings, for his Spirit rests on you. If you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed but glorify God for bearing that name.
Gospel – John 17:1-11: Jesus prays for his disciples, asking God to glorify him so he can glorify the Father. He acknowledges his mission and prays for those given to him, as he prepares to leave the world.

Mass Readings for the 7th Sunday of Easter Year B

See resources, homilies, and more for the 7th Sunday of Easter Year B readings here.

First Reading – Acts 1:15-17, 20A, 20C-26: Peter explained the need to replace Judas to maintain the twelve apostles. From two nominees, Matthias was chosen by casting lots, fulfilling his role as witness to Jesus’ resurrection.
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 103: Praise the Lord deeply, remembering His kindnesses. His mercy is vast, and He removes our sins far from us. His throne in heaven rules over all.

Second Reading – 1 John 4:11-16: Since God’s love for us is profound, we are called to love each other deeply. By loving one another, God’s presence is affirmed within us, perfecting His love through our actions.
Gospel – John 17:11B-19: Jesus, looking to heaven, prayed for His disciples’ protection through God’s name, to unite them as He and the Father are united. He acknowledged His care for them and His imminent return to the Father, desiring them to experience His joy fully. Jesus asked not for their removal from the world but for their protection from evil, emphasizing their sanctification and separation from worldly values. He committed Himself to their sanctification, mirroring His mission to the world.

Mass Readings for the 7th Sunday of Easter Year C

See resources, homilies, and more for the 7th Sunday of Easter Year C readings here.

First Reading – Acts 7:55-60: Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, saw Jesus in heaven. As he was stoned, he asked Jesus to receive his spirit and forgive his killers.
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 97: The Lord reigns with justice, making the earth rejoice. All peoples see His glory, and all gods bow before Him. The Lord is exalted above all.
Second Reading – Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20: Jesus promises to come soon, bringing rewards for each person based on their deeds. He invites all who are thirsty to come and receive life-giving water.

Gospel – John 17:20-2: Jesus prays for believers to be united as one, as He is with the Father. He wishes for them to see His glory and know the Father’s love.

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