April 23, 2004.

Tuesday of the fourth week of Easter.

A reading from the Acts of the Apostles.

Those who had been scattered by the persecution that arose because of Stephen

went as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but Jews. There were some Cypriots

and Sireneans among them, however, who came to Antioch and began to speak to the Greeks as well,

proclaiming the Lord Jesus. The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed

turned to the Lord. The news about them

reached the ear of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to go to Antioch. When he arrived

and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord

and firmness of heart, for he was a good man, filled

with the Holy Spirit and faith.

And a large number of people was added to the Lord.

Then he went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch.

For a whole year they met with the church and taught a large number of people,

and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.

The Word of the Lord.

The responseorial psalm, the response is,

All you nations, praise the Lord.

His foundation upon the holy mountains the Lord loves.

The gates of Zion, more than any dwelling of Jacob.

Glorious things are said of you, O city of God.

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