umc lectionary

3 min read 21-03-2025

The United Methodist Church (UMC) lectionary is a three-year cycle of Scripture readings designed to guide worship planning throughout the church year. It provides a framework for preaching, prayer, and liturgical celebrations, ensuring a rich and diverse exploration of biblical texts. Understanding how the UMC lectionary works can significantly enhance your participation in and appreciation for Methodist worship.

What is a Lectionary?

At its core, a lectionary is a schedule of Bible readings. Different denominations and traditions use various lectionaries, each with its own structure and theological emphasis. The UMC lectionary, specifically, is carefully constructed to offer a balanced presentation of the Old and New Testaments, highlighting different genres and themes throughout the year. This isn't just a random selection; it's a thoughtfully curated journey through Scripture.

The Three-Year Cycle: A Journey Through Scripture

The UMC's genius lies in its three-year cycle. Each year focuses on a different aspect of biblical narrative:

Year A: Emphasizes the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, along with related Old Testament readings. This year often focuses on themes of kingdom, justice, and the ministry of Jesus.
Year B: Centers on the Gospels of Mark and John, showcasing different narrative styles and theological perspectives. This year might explore themes of discipleship, power, and the identity of Jesus.
Year C: Features the Gospel of John exclusively, allowing for a deeper dive into its unique theological insights. This year might highlight themes of love, sacrifice, and eternal life.

This cyclical approach ensures that congregations engage with a wide range of biblical texts over time, preventing repetition and encouraging a holistic understanding of the Christian faith.

How the UMC Lectionary is Structured: Readings for Each Sunday

Each Sunday's service typically includes readings from:

Old Testament/Hebrew Scriptures: Providing historical context and theological background for the Gospel reading.
Psalm: Offering a liturgical response, often reflecting the emotions or themes of the day's readings.
Epistle (New Testament): Provides further theological reflection and application of the Gospel message.
Gospel: The central reading, typically a passage from one of the four Gospels.

The selection of these readings is intentional, designed to create a coherent and meaningful worship experience. The connections between readings might be thematic, historical, or even literary, inviting deeper contemplation and reflection.

Beyond the Readings: Using the Lectionary Effectively

The UMC lectionary is more than just a list of readings; it's a tool for worship planning. Pastors and worship leaders use it as a foundation to:

Develop sermons: The lectionary provides the scriptural basis for weekly sermons, guiding the focus and message.
Choose hymns and music: The chosen hymns and musical selections should complement the day's theme and readings, creating a unified worship experience.
Select prayers and liturgical elements: Prayers and other liturgical components can be tailored to reflect the theological emphasis of the readings.

This integrated approach ensures consistency and depth in weekly worship, making it more engaging and meaningful for the congregation.

Finding the UMC Lectionary: Resources and Access

The UMC lectionary is readily available through various online resources and published liturgical calendars. A quick search online will reveal numerous websites and publications that provide the complete schedule for the current liturgical year. Many Methodist churches will also have printed copies available for their members.

Why Use the UMC Lectionary?

The UMC lectionary offers several key benefits:

Theological Depth: It provides a balanced and comprehensive exploration of scripture, fostering a deeper understanding of the Christian faith.
Community and Connection: Using the same readings across the denomination creates a shared experience and sense of community among United Methodists.
Predictability and Structure: It provides a framework for worship planning, allowing for efficient preparation and a consistent worship experience.
Accessibility: The readily available resources make it easy for churches and individuals to access the readings.

The UMC lectionary is a valuable resource for United Methodist congregations. By understanding its structure and utilizing it effectively, churches can enrich their worship experiences and foster a deeper engagement with the Bible. It's a journey through scripture, designed to guide and inspire faith.