Page:Book of common prayer (TEC, 1979).pdf/264



Let us pray.

Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Create and  make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily  lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness,  may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission  and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives  and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever  and ever. Amen.

Dear People of God: The first Christians observed with great devotion the days of our Lord’s passion and resurrection, and  it became the custom of the Church to prepare for them by a