A sequence or list of lections (passages of scripture) to be read in church services during the year. The Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) is a three-year cycle of suggested scripture readings that follows the Christian year. Each Sunday, four passages of scripture are recommended, usually two from the Old Testament and two from the New Testament. Thus, over a three-year period the Bible is covered in a systematic and balanced way.
Source: Sharing God's Gifts Glossary of United Methodist Terms, InfoServ