Contrary to what some claim—the Catholic Church— places the Bible at the center of its beliefs. The General Instruction Of The Roman Missal nos. 273 and 277 speak of the special veneration of The book of the Gospels.
Usually carried by the Deacon or Lector, it is carried slightly elevated but not above the head and it is placed on the altar until the Alleluia. After the seconding reading, the celebrating Priest or Deacon will take the Book of the Gospels from the Altar and raise it up while proceeding to the ambo in order to proclaim the Gospel.
Followed by one Old Testament, one New Testament, and the Responsorial Psalm, the reading of the Gospel is the high point of the liturgy of the word.