The Catholic Church will celebrate the Seventh Sunday of the Word of God on Sunday, 25 January 2026, under the motto: “The word of Christ dwells among you” (Col 3:16). Observed each year on the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, this day invites the faithful to reflect on, celebrate, and share the Word of God in their daily lives.
The celebration was established by Pope Francis in his 2019 Apostolic Letter Aperuit illis, emphasizing the essential connection between the Risen Lord, Christian communities, and Sacred Scripture. The Pope calls on all believers to make the Word of God a living presence in their hearts, guiding their actions and inspiring their witness.
Archbishop Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, explains this year’s theme:
“Saint Paul’s words to the Colossians, ‘The word of Christ dwells among you’, invite us not only to listen to the Word but to let it dwell within us. The Word shapes our thoughts, guides our desires, and unites the Christian community. To welcome it is to allow Christ to speak through our lives, bringing hope and life to those around us.”
This year, the celebration also coincides with the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, marking the end of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Just as the Word transformed Paul on the road to Damascus, it continues to call Christians today to open their hearts and share the Gospel with the world.
The Seventh Sunday of the Word of God is a reminder that Scripture is not just to be read or studied, it is to live within us, bearing fruit in our lives and communities.
Preparing for the Sunday – Zoom Wednesday 21 January 7.30-9pm. Introduction to the Sunday and its theme for the link please contact deaconpeter.collins@northamptondiocese.org
Celebrating the Sunday – our Liturgy at the Cathedral 3pm on Sunday 25th January. With reflections by Fr Jerome Ituah OCD and commissioning of readers to proclaim the Word. The service booklet will available on the diocesan website. You can follow the liturgy on the Cathedral livestream.
Going one step further – Saturday 31 January 11am-3pm. A day for readers to reflect and share at Holy Ghost Centre, Westbourne Rd, Luton LU4 8JD, Refreshments will be available. Booking details will follow.
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