The opening prayer for the rite of penance. Note that after a brief introduction, the prayer is sung or said.
50. The priest invites all to pray, using these or similar words:
Brothers and sisters, God calls us to conversion; let us therefore ask him for the grace of sincere repentance.
All pray in silence for a brief period. Then the priest sings or says the prayer:
Lord, hear the prayers of those who call on you, forgive the sins of those who confess to you, and in your merciful love give us your pardon and your peace. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Or:
Lord, send your Spirit among us to cleanse us in the waters of repentance. May he make of us a living sacrifice so that in every place, by his life-giving power, we may praise your glory and proclaim your loving compassion. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Other forms of the opening prayer may be chosen from nos. 97-100ยท
