Greeting (See Second Reading)

God loves us, even though we sin.
By dying for us,
Jesus brought us reconciliation
and has filled us with joyful trust in God.
May the Lord Jesus be always with you
R/ And also with you.

Introduction by the Celebrant

Many in our society and our communities are in need of healing. We too need the healing of forgiveness, maybe also of illness and pain and suffering. Jesus came to bring us healing from sin and he sends out his disciples, in the past and today, to bring healing to a world so often afflicted and yet often harsh and pitiless. Let us ask the Lord that we may pass on to others the mercy he is showing to us.

Penitential Act

Let us ask forgiveness from the Lord
because we have often been hard and merciless.
(PAUSE)
Lord Jesus, you are our Good Shepherd
who laid down your life for people: