THE DIVINE WORD

Rev. Leon Ngandu has observed that many believers do not fullyunderstand the Scriptures proclaimed at Mass and the homiliesthat explain them. As a result they do not participate in Massactively intentionally and prayerfully. Therefore he recognized acritical need to evangelize God's people about the prayerful characterof the fi rst part of the Mass the liturgy of the Word of God. He stronglyemphasizes that both parts of the Mass-the liturgy of the Word of Godand the liturgy of the Eucharist-are deeply connected. We cannotfully engage in one without the other. This means we cannot trulyparticipate with Jesus at the Eucharistic Table if we do not listen toand understand him at the table of the Word of God. The liturgy of theWord is not just a part of the Mass; it is a prayerful encounter with God.Therefore a deep understanding of the liturgical Scriptures is essentialfor the faithful to participate reverently in the Mass. This LiturgicalWeekly Bible Study Workbook serves as a helpful tool aiming to assistthe faithful in becoming familiar with the liturgical scripture readingsbefore attending each Sunday Mass.