31st Sunday in Ordinary Time

On the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time, we reflect on how we approach spirituality. When we humbly open our hearts and eagerly invite God into our lives, we can experience His presence and find joy in following Jesus Christ. The readings emphasize humility, holiness, and caring for others. They prompt us to live God's commandments from the heart. Themes like the Ten Commandments, love, and Church laws can be explored. The readings also focus on repentance and how encountering Jesus brings change.

Click on the appropriate year below to see resources, themes, homilies, and more for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time.

31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A: Sunday November 4, 2029
31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B: Sunday November 3, 2024
31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C: Sunday November 5, 2028

Mass Readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A

• Sunday November 4, 2029

See resources, homilies, and more for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A readings here.

• First Reading – Malachi 1:14B-2:2B, 8-10: The Lord, a great and fearsome King, addresses the priests, warning them of the consequences of disregarding His commandments. Their actions have led others astray and dishonored the covenant. The Lord calls for faithfulness and unity among His people.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 131: I do not boast or seek greatness; my soul is calm and content. I find peace in the Lord, like a weaned child in its mother's lap. O Israel, put your hope in the Lord forever.
• Second Reading – 1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9, 13: We cared for you with gentleness and affection, sharing not only the gospel but our very lives. Our toil and proclamation of God's word were not in vain, as you received it with belief and it is at work within you.
• Gospel – Matthew 23:1-12: Jesus addresses the crowds and His disciples, cautioning them against following the hypocritical teachings and actions of the Pharisees and scribes. He advises the people to listen and observe their teachings but not to imitate their deeds. Jesus emphasizes the importance of humility, urging His followers not to seek titles or exaltation but to serve others with a genuine heart.

Mass Readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

• Sunday November 3, 2024

See resources, homilies, and more for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B readings here.

• First Reading – Deuteronomy 6:2-6: Hear, O Israel, the commandments of the Lord. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and strength. Teach them diligently to your children, bind them on your hands, and write them on your doorposts.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 18: I declare my love for the Lord, my rock and deliverer. He is my refuge and shield, my salvation and stronghold. I praise Him for His faithfulness and victories.
• Second Reading – Hebrews 7:23-28: Jesus, our eternal high priest, is able to save all who come to God through Him. Unlike the earthly high priests, He offered Himself as a sacrifice once for all, being holy, innocent, and separate from sinners. Through His perfect priesthood, He brings eternal salvation.
• Gospel – Mark 12:28b-34: A scribe approaches Jesus and asks Him about the greatest commandment. Jesus answers by quoting the Shema, affirming that the greatest commandment is to love God with all one's heart, soul, mind, and strength. He adds that the second greatest commandment is to love one's neighbor as oneself. The scribe agrees with Jesus, recognizing the significance of these commandments and that they are more important than sacrifices. Jesus commends him for his insight and tells him that he is not far from the kingdom of God.

Mass Readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

• Sunday November 5, 2028

See resources, homilies, and more for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C readings here.

• First Reading – Wisdom 11:22-12:2: The LORD's mercy extends to all, even as the universe is minuscule compared to Him. God overlooks sins to allow for repentance and loves all His creations. He gradually corrects those who sin, aiming for their belief in Him.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 145: I will forever praise and bless the name of God, my King. The LORD is gracious, slow to anger, and kind to all. His faithful praise Him, talking of His mighty kingdom. He is trustworthy, uplifting those who are downtrodden.
• Second Reading – 2 Thessalonians 1:11-2:2: We pray that God makes you worthy of His calling and fulfills your faithful efforts. May you glorify Jesus and find glory in Him. Don't be easily unsettled about the Lord's coming; stay steadfast.
• Gospel - Luke 19:1-10: Jesus comes to Jericho and meets Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector who climbs a tree to see Him. Jesus visits Zacchaeus' home, causing public grumbling. Zacchaeus promises restitution and charity, earning Jesus' commendation for salvation.

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 for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time.