Sunday of the Word of God
“He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.” Luke 24:45
Sunday of the Word of God | January 25, 2026
Pope Francis’ Apostolic Letter, “Aperuit Illis” published on September 30, 2019, established that, “the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time is to be devoted to the celebration, study and dissemination of the Word of God”.
Aperuit Illis
Instituting the Sunday of the Word of God
With this Letter, I wish to respond to the many requests I have received from the people of God that the entire Church celebrate, in unity of purpose, a Sunday of the Word of God. It is fitting, then, that the life of our people be constantly marked by this decisive relationship with the living word that the Lord never tires of speaking to his Bride, that she may grow in love and faithful witness.
Consequently, I hereby declare that the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time is to be devoted to the celebration, study, and dissemination of the word of God.
Pope Francis
Click here to read the entire letter.
Lectio Divina
Lectio Divina is a dynamic, life-oriented approach to reading Holy Scriptures encouraged by both Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. It provides a framework for a faithful and respectful reading of the Bible that is sincere and authentic. Lectio divina is a blessing for the entire Church as it opens up the rich truths of Scripture for every Christian.
Sunday of the Word of God Resources
NRSV Poverty and Justice Bible - only $9.98
Children’s Bible Storybook
Bible Explored Set
Daily Bible Reading Guide
God Understands | eBooks
Alabaster Gospel of Matthew
Ministry Toolkit
The Word for Families
Where to Look in the Bible
Extracts from the Apostolic Letter by Pope Francis
“He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.” (Lk 24:45) This was one of the final acts of the risen Lord before His Ascension. The relationship between the Risen Lord, the community of believers and sacred Scripture is essential to our identity as Christians.