Sisters and brothers, we turn to our just and merciful Creator.

Scripture tells us the coming of the Lord is at hand. To prepare for that coming, we ask for God's forgiveness.

Brought together in this holy gathering, we pray for the mercy of God.

Called together to worship in the house of God, we ask the Lord's pardon.

Encouraged by God's promise of salvation, let us pray for reconciliation with God and one another.

In the presence of God, let us pray for God's gracious forgiveness.

We pray for forgiveness of our failings and for encouragement to follow the Lord.

Our God spares all things, forgives all things. We ask God for that forgiveness.

Our God is a God of justice and mercy. We ask God for that mercy.

God is our help. We turn to God for help in overcoming our sins.