Gospel: Matthew 5:1–12Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down.His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them, saying: 3 “Blessed arethe poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those whomourn, for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inheritthe earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for theywill be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8 Blessedare the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, forthey will be called sons of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecutedbecause of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11“Blessed areyou when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evilagainst you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is yourreward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who werebefore you