October 19, 2003, Memorial of Saints John de Bourouf and Isaac Jokes, priests and companions, martyrs.

A reading from the letter of St. Paul to the Romans.

Brothers and sisters.

Now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law though testify to by the law and the

prophets the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe for there is no

distinction all have sinned and are deprived of the glory of God.

They are justified freely by His grace through the redemption in Christ Jesus,

whom God set forth as an expiation through faith by his blood

to prove his righteousness because of the forgiveness of sins previously

committed through the forbearance of God to prove his righteousness in the present time

that he might be righteous and justify the one who has faith in Jesus.

What occasion is there then for boasting? It is ruled out. On what principle? That of works?

No, rather on the principle of faith. For we consider that a person is justified by faith apart from works of the law.

Does God belong to Jews alone? Does he not belong to Gentiles too? Yes, also to Gentiles,

for God is one and will justify the circumcised on the basis of faith

and the uncircumcised through faith. The Word of the Lord.

The response is, with the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.

Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my voice

in supplication. With the Lord, there is mercy and fullness of redemption.

If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, Lord who can stand, but with you is forgiveness that you may be revered.

With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.

I trust in the Lord, my soul trusts in His Word.

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