Lectionary Readings
The lectionary is a system of scripture readings appointed for use in worship throughout the year. It provides a structured way to hear and reflect on the Bible in a regular cycle.
What is the Lectionary System?
We follow the Revised Common Lectionary, provided by the Vanderbilt Divinity Library, using the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible. This internationally recognized three-year cycle of readings focuses each year on one of the Synoptic Gospels:
- Year A emphasizes the Gospel of Matthew (e.g., 2025-26)
- Year B emphasizes the Gospel of Mark (e.g., 2026-27)
- Year C emphasizes the Gospel of Luke (e.g., 2024-25, 2027-28)
The Gospel of John is used throughout the Easter season and to supplement the other Gospels.
When Are the Readings Used?
The lectionary provides readings for Sundays, Holy Days, and daily worship. In the Holy Communion service on Sundays and Holy Days, the readings typically follow this order:
- The first reading is usually from the Old Testament (except during Easter when it comes from the Book of Acts).
- The Psalm follows the first reading.
- The second reading is from the New Testament, often from an epistle or the Book of Revelation.
- The final reading is from one of the Gospels.
Lectionary Calendars and Variations
Different churches and regions may use variations of the lectionary. For example, in Australia, the Anglican Church publishes an annual booklet called An Australian Lectionary, which includes readings for Sundays, Holy Days, and daily prayers.
It is important to note that sometimes lectionary readings may differ on special feast days or solemnities, depending on the country or denomination.
Lectionary Tracks and Cycles
There are several different lectionary tracks or cycles used in Christian worship:
- Three-Year Cycle (Years A, B, C): The most common cycle, focusing on Matthew, Mark, and Luke respectively, with John supplementing especially during Easter.
- One-Year Cycle: Some churches use a one-year cycle repeating the same readings annually.
- Daily Lectionary: Provides scripture readings for every day of the year, including Old Testament, Psalms, Epistles, and Gospels.
- Proper or Seasonal Tracks: Special readings for seasons like Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, Pentecost, and other feast days.
- Denominational Variations: Some denominations have their own lectionaries or variations, such as the Anglican Church of Australia’s Australian Lectionary or the Roman Catholic Lectionary.
Additionally, many Pentecostal churches and other non-mainstream Christian groups do not follow the traditional lectionary system. Instead, they often use their own scripture reading plans or focus on topical and prophetic readings chosen by their leaders.
Understanding the Liturgical Year
The liturgical year does not follow the calendar year exactly. Instead, it typically begins in late November or early December and runs through to the following year. For example, "2024-25" means the liturgical year starts in late 2024 and continues into most of 2025. This is why the year ranges span two calendar years.
Year Cycles
The three-year cycle repeats as follows:
- Year A: 2022-23, 2025-26, 2028-29, 2031-32, 2034-35, 2037-38, 2040-41, 2043-44, 2046-47
- Year B: 2023-24, 2026-27, 2029-30, 2032-33, 2035-36, 2038-39, 2041-42, 2044-45, 2047-48
- Year C: 2024-25, 2027-28, 2030-31, 2033-34, 2036-37, 2039-40, 2042-43, 2045-46, 2048-49
Reading in Worship
If you are preparing to read scripture in a worship service, consider reviewing notes on the purpose and practice of reading in worship — including the why, what, where, when, and how of effective scripture reading.
This page aims to help you understand the lectionary system and how it shapes the readings you hear in worship throughout the year.
