The Gospels of the Weekday Lectionary: Commentary and Reflections

"Seize the text," John Craghan tells readers in his introduction to this volume. Though he states the seemingly obvious—it is imperative to read the biblical texts in order to begin to mine their depths—his commentary on the gospels of the weekday Lectionary helps readers do just that. Volumes have been written about the gospels of the Sunday Lectionary, but there are few resources that give the weekday gospels their due. Craghan fills that gap by drawing out the features of each evangelist and providing accessible commentaries and reflections for the gospels during the week. Used as a guide for homilists or as a means for personal meditation on the readings, these observations will help readers to "seize the text"—to understand the gospels and their relevance for daily life.

"John Craghan's expertise as a biblical scholar is evident on every page of this book. He not only captures the essence of the gospel message but also challenges us with its implications for our present-day lives. These insightful reflections will be warmly received by those who, in addition to other pressing ministerial responsibilities, are called on to preach on weekdays. They will also provide readers seeds that can grow into a rich biblical spirituality."-Dianne Bergant, CSA, Professor of Biblical Studies, Catholic Theological Union

"John Craghan has provided a precious instrument for all who make the gospels the core of their daily liturgical and prayer life. He not only states concisely and reliably what the ancient texts say but also helps people today to appreciate more fully the person of Jesus and to face up to the challenges he places before those who seek to follow him."-Reverend Daniel I. Harrington, SI, Boston College School of Theology and Ministry

John F. Craghan is professor emeritus of religious studies at St. Norbert College, De Pere, Wisconsin. He is North American editor for "Scripture in Church" (Dominican Publications: Dublin, Ireland) and is the author of numerous books, including Exodus in the Collegeville Bible Commentary and Psalms for All Seasons (Liturgical Press). Craghan has lectured widely in the United States and Latin America. His chief interest is to make the best of biblical scholarship accessible to a wider audience.