July 4th, 2006, Saturday of the 13th week in ordinary time.

A reading from the book of the prophet Amos.

Thus says the Lord,

On that day I will raise up the fallen hut of David.

I will wall up its breaches, raise up its ruins,

and rebuild it as in the days of old,

that they may conquer what is left of Edom, and all the nations that shall bear my name,

say I, the Lord, who will do this. Yes, days are coming, says the Lord, when the ploughman shall overtake the reaper, and the vintager,

him who sows the seed. The juice of grapes shall drip down the mountains, and all the hills shall run with it. I will bring about the restoration of my people Israel. They shall rebuild and inhabit their ruined cities.

Plant vineyards and drink the wine. Set out gardens and eat the fruits. I will plant them upon their

own ground. Never again shall they be plucked from the land I have given them, say I, the Lord, your God.

The word of the Lord.

The Responsorial Psalm.

The response is, the Lord speaks of peace to his people.

I will hear what God proclaims.

The Lord, for he proclaims peace to his people.

Near indeed is his salvation to those who fear him.

Glory dwelling in our land.

The Lord speaks of peace to his people.

Kindness and truth shall meet.

Justice and peace shall kiss.

Truth shall spring out of the earth,

...