Reconciliation Liturgy

Sunday 29 November 2015 – Sr. Barbara Henley rndm

Jesus Emmanuel, our Saviour…let your blessing come upon us this Advent May this coming Year of Mercy serve as an invitation to follow the merciful example of the Father who asks us not to judge or condemn but to forgive….and to give love and forgiveness without measure. May we turn to you as we prepare our hearts and minds to welcome you this Christmas. Be with us as we celebrate this Sacrament of Reconciliation so that we may rejoice in your love.
Lord Jesus Christ, we pray that the Jubilee of Mercy may be a year of grace and that your Church, with renewed enthusiasm, may bring good news to the poor, proclaim liberty to captives and the oppressed and restore sight to the blind. We ask this through the intercession of Mary, Mother of Mercy. (Pope Francis) Blessed are you Loving God, for showing mercy to the merciful. Mercy is not pity. Mercy is when we reach out to those in need. It is feeling with them and for them. (Pope Francis)
Do I value people and show them respect and kindness? Have I turned away from someone who needed help? Have I tried to understand and forgive others? Have I been indifferent or judgmental? Do I foster peace at home, work, church and community? Am I afraid to witness my faith in Christ Jesus? Is the joy of Christ in my heart, even in difficult times? Am I faithful to my Christian values? Am I at peace with God? Do I have peace in my heart?
Forgive us for the times we have put our own comfort above all else and for using selfishly the good things you have given us. Pardon us for our failures to realise we are spiritually poor and need your help at all times.