There follows the Alleluia or another chant laid down by the rubrics, as the liturgical time requires.
Meanwhile, if incense is used, the Priest puts some into the thurible. After this, the Deacon who is to proclaim the Gospel, bowing profoundly before the Priest, asks for the blessing, saying in a low voice:
Your blessing, Father.
The Priest says in a low voice:
May the Lord be in your heart and on your lips, that you may proclaim his Gospel worthily and well, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
The Deacon signs himself with the Sign of the Cross and replies:
Amen.
If, however, a Deacon is not present, the Priest, bowing before the altar, says quietly:
Cleanse my heart and my lips, almighty God, that I may worthily proclaim your holy Gospel.
The Deacon, or the Priest, then proceeds to the ambo, accompanied, if appropriate, by ministers with incense and candles. There he says:
The Lord be with you.
The people reply:
And with your spirit.
The Deacon, or the Priest:
A reading from the holy Gospel according to N.
And, at the same time, he makes the Sign of the Cross on the book and on his forehead, lips, and breast.
The people acclaim:
Glory to you, O Lord.
