First Reading

Reading from the first letter of the apostle Saint Peter

1 Peter 5:5-14

Beloved brothers: Let humility be always present in your mutual dealings, for God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares about you.

Be alert and do not be caught off guard, because your enemy the devil, like a roaring lion, prowls around seeking someone to devour. Resist him with the firmness of faith, knowing that your brothers, scattered throughout the world, endure the same sufferings as you.

The God of all grace, who has called us to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you after you have suffered a little while. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

Through Silvanus, whom I consider a faithful brother, I have written this short letter to you, to confirm that this is the true grace of God and to encourage you to stand firm in it.

The church in Babylon, chosen as you are, sends you greetings, as does my son Mark. Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

Gospel

Reading from the holy Gospel according to Saint Mark

Mark 16:15-20

At that time, Jesus appeared to the Eleven and said to them: “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned. These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons, they will speak in new tongues, they will pick up serpents with their hands, and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

The Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God. And they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by the signs that attended it.