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Opening Hymn: ‘All Are Welcome’ (Marty Haugen)
Call to Prayer As we gather this evening as a faith community - We celebrate as who we are - NOW. And where we are situated - HERE AND NOW. And so we need to situate ourselves. We think of our world: (name the places you would like to remember)
We think of the people: (name the groups of people you would like to remember)
All: We are part of these, and they of us. Through this time together, at the beginning/closing moment of this day, we want to know this about ourselves more deeply.
Introduction: We are not personally to blame for poverty, starvation and the greed of the world. We pray God’s mercy on the world, and the conversion of hearts so that all may enjoy the fruits of the earth. We are not to blame, but we can be part of the solution.
And we pray: Lord, what is the point of your presence if our lives do not alter? Change our lives, shatter our complacency. Take away that self-regard which makes our consciences feel clear. Press us uncomfortably. Make of our hearts your heart. For only thus will peace and justice be made, your justice and peace. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer for Mercy We pray the mercy of God and his forgiveness on our world: For seeking worldly glory for our institutions while forgetting the human costs. Lord have mercy.
For seeking the regard of the better off in society and leaving out young people at the margins. Christ have mercy.
For failing to notice the inequalities and injustices done to our staffs, and our pupils. Lord have mercy.
May the God of hope and justice have mercy on us: For failure to notice and care for the poor. Lord have mercy.
For neglect of the those who are most needy. Christ have mercy.
For our silences in the face of society’s injustices towards the weakest in our cultures. Lord have mercy.
May the God of compassion and kindness have mercy on us: Lord you love justice and you love the poor. Lord have mercy.
Lord you had a special place in your heart for children. Christ have mercy.
Lord you want joy and love for all your people. Lord have mercy.
May the God of peace and truth and justice have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us today and forever to everlasting life. Amen.
Ritual of Names
Hymn: ‘Jesus Prayer’ (John Michael Talbot)For a few moments reflect on the past to remember one person, one group from whom you need reconciliation and forgiveness. Write a word on the card provided - any word that helps you to remember your need for reconciliation. Place the card on a spot on a spot before the altar/prayer table. Say as you place the card:
Without you Lord, my word cannot be forgiven.
Closing Prayer of Penitential Rite: (Priest or community leader) Cease to do evil, learn to do good; search for justice, help the marginalised and the poor. Be just to all, and plea for the voiceless. Go in peace to love and serve the Lord and his people .
End with Sign of Peace |
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Penitential
Ritual