Brothers and sisters, as the celebration of the birth of our Lord draws near, let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.

Brothers and sisters, as we continue our Advent wait, let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.

Brothers and sisters, as we make straight the way of the Lord, let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.

As we enter Advent, we are mindful of our need to repent and prepare the way for the coming of the Lord. Let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.

The Lord rescues us, gives us rest, and heals us.

We ask to be made good and faithful servants.

Our God is our help, and we call upon God by name.

As we stand before the table of God's love, we turn to God's loving care for mercy and forgiveness.

We turn to our God who responds to those who cry out in prayer.

In the gospel today Jesus challenges his hearers to choose to follow God above all else. Let us pray that we may make that choice.