World Church · November 3, 2026
Sermon on the Mount described as a manual for Christian life
The Sermon on the Mount is described as a compendium and a manual for Christian life. The text states that these teachings are not recommendations for those who want more or better things. The source suggests that the sermon is probably baptismal catechesis, presenting to catechumens what faith in the risen Lord is and how it should be lived. The text advises returning to what is the source and foundation of being with Jesus from time to time.
The Gospel reading for November 1, 2026, the Solemnity of All Saints, is from the Gospel according to Saint Matthew. Jesus, seeing the crowds, went up on a mountain. When he sat down, his disciples came to him. He opened his mouth and taught them. He declared that the poor in spirit are blessed, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Those who mourn are blessed, for they will be comforted. The meek are blessed, for they will inherit the earth. Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness are blessed, for they will be filled. The merciful are blessed, for they will be shown mercy. The pure in heart are blessed, for they will see God. Those who promote peace are blessed, for they will be called sons of God. Those who are persecuted for righteousness are blessed, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. The text states that people are blessed when they insult and persecute them and falsely say all kinds of evil against them because of Jesus. They are told to rejoice and be glad, for their reward is great in heaven.
The commentary describes the Sermon on the Mount as a kind of manifesto, a Great Charter of the Kingdom of God. The Evangelist places it in the scenery of Galilee, on a hill with a view of the Sea of Galilee. The commentary notes that the beatitudes presented by Matthew are subversive. In human concepts, a rich person, one who has influence and is respected by everyone, would be called blessed. Jesus emphatically points out that the happy are the poor, the humble, and the despised. This is a radical reversal of values. The criteria used by God are completely different from human criteria and even contrary to them. These words are directed to all disciples, not only to the willing or the more zealous.
The text encourages asking for the grace of accepting and living the mystery of the Lord, who breaks human schemes of thinking about him. It suggests thanking him for his openness, gentleness, and patience. The text concludes with a prayer asking the Father to send his Son to save humanity and asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten the person to accept Jesus, recognize him as the Savior, and cling to him with the whole heart. The text also includes a call to change what causes discomfort, fulfill a dream, and do what one previously lacked the courage to do.