Readings from the Bible are given, often by non-ordained followers of the church, or "lay" people. It may start with a reading from the Old Testament, followed by one from the Book of Psalms, the Old Testament's collection of hymns or poem. This may be followed by a second reading, usually from the New Testament. The congregation then recites or sings the "Alleluia," meaning "praise God" in Hebrew. This is followed by a reading from the Book of Gospels, which tells the story of Jesus Christ. Then comes the priest's Homily, a short sermon on how the readings apply to worshippers' lives. The assembled then recite the Creed, a profession of faith. It begins: We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen... The first part of the Mass concludes with the Prayers of the Faithful. The priest or deacon reads a list of short petitions to God, such as mercy for those in difficulty. There is a pause between each, to which worshippers respond "Lord, Hear our Prayer."