Readings for the Feast of Our Mother of Good Counsel

First Reading: Is 9:2-4, 6-7

A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah

The people who walked in darkness

have seen a great light;

Upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom

a light has shone.

You have brought them abundant joy and great rejoicing,

As they rejoice before you as at the harvest,

as men make merry when dividing spoils.

For the yoke that burdened them,

the pole on their shoulder,

And the rod of their taskmaster

you have smashed, as on the day of Midian.

For a child is born to us, a son is given us;

upon his shoulder dominion rests.

They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero,

Father-Forever, Prince of Peace.

His dominion is vast

and forever peaceful,

From David's throne, and over his kingdom,

which he confirms and sustains

By judgment and justice,

both now and forever.

The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this!

Second Reading: Acts 1:12-14; 2:1-4

A reading from the Acts of the Apostles

[After Jesus had been taken into the heavens], the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet near Jerusalem-a mere sabbath's journey away. Entering the city, they went to the upstairs room where they were staying: Peter and John and James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus; Simon, the Zealot party member, and Judas son of James. Together they devoted themselves to constant prayer. There were some women in their company, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.

When the day of Pentecost came it found them gathered in one place. Suddenly from up in the sky there came a noise like a strong, driving wind which was heard .all through the house where they were seated. Tongues as of fire appeared which parted and came to rest on each of them. All were filled with the Holy Spirit. They began to express themselves in foreign tongues and make bold proclamation as the Spirit prompted them.

The Word of the Lord

Gospel Reading: John 2:1-11