Verbum Domini §69

e) The exclusive use of biblical texts in the liturgy

69. The Synod also clearly reaffirmed a point already laid down by liturgical law,[242] namely that the readings drawn from sacred Scripture may never be replaced by other texts, however significant the latter may be from a spiritual or pastoral standpoint: “No text of spirituality or literature can equal the value and riches contained in sacred Scripture, which is the word of God”.[243] This is an ancient rule of the Church which is to be maintained.[244] In the face of certain abuses, Pope John Paul II had already reiterated the importance of never using other readings in place of sacred Scripture.[245] It should also be kept in mind that the Responsorial Psalm is also the word of God, and hence should not be replaced by other texts; indeed it is most appropriate that it be sung.

[242] Cf. General Instruction of the Roman Missal, 57.

[243] Propositio 14.

[244] Cf. Canon 36 of the Synod of Hippo, in the year 399: DS 186.

[245] Cf. John Paul II, Apostolic Letter Vicesimus Quintus Annus (4 December 1988), 13: AAS 81 (1989) 910; Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, InstructionRedemptionis Sacramentum (25 March 2004), 62: Enchiridion Vaticanum 22, No. 2248.