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Eastertide: Alternative Old Testament Readings

These readings offer an alternative Old Testament pattern for Eastertide that complements the Revised Common Lectionary. Developed through international ecumenical collaboration and authorized for use by General Synod 2023, they provide a three-year cycle of passages that highlight themes of resurrection, covenant and new creation throughout the Easter season.

Suggested uses

  • Planning parish worship during the Easter season
  • Supporting clergy, lay readers and worship leaders in lectionary selection
  • Enriching Bible study or seasonal formation groups
  • Exploring Old Testament themes connected to resurrection and renewal

Key themes

  • Old Testament foundations for Easter proclamation
  • Ecumenical collaboration in developing lectionary resources
  • Seasonal rhythms within the Revised Common Lectionary
  • Continuity of salvation history across Scripture

Best suited for

Clergy, worship planners, lay readers, and groups exploring biblical or liturgical formation during Eastertide.

Acknowledging the land and God’s creation

This acknowledgement is crafted in light of the Principles of Reconciliation by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, as we seek to live faithfully in Christ and in right relationship with all. 

We give thanks to the Creator for this land, its waters, forests and all living beings, and for the abiding presence of Christ among us. From coast to coast to coast, these have been cared for and nurtured by First Nations, Inuit and Métis through countless generations. 

We honour the enduring relationship Indigenous Peoples have cultivated with these lands and waters, and the treaties and agreements that reflect these sacred bonds. We acknowledge the harms caused by colonial expansion, through frameworks like the Doctrine of Discovery and structures like the residential school system. We recognize our past failures as a Church, including disruption of connections to the land and suppression of Indigenous spiritualities. 

Guided by the gospel of Jesus Christ, we confess our need for healing. We commit ourselves to seeking truth, pursuing reconciliation and nurturing harmony with all creation. We place our trust in Christ, through whom all things are reconciled to God. 

May God strengthen us to live faithfully as stewards of the Earth. Let us walk in love, justice and reconciliation, joining in God’s work to restore all creation.