Pause

Take a moment to still yourself. Take a deep breath and ask God for a renewed sense of presence with you in this moment.

Opening Prayer

Grant, almighty God, 
through the yearly observances of holy Lent,
that we may grow in understanding
of the riches hidden in Christ
and by worthy conduct pursue their effects.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Song,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, 
God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Sing or listen

FIRST READING

Genesis 9:8-15

RESPONSORIAL PSALM

Psalm 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9
R: Your ways, O Lord, are love and truth, to those who keep your covenant.

SECOND READING

1 Peter 3:18-22

Gospel

Mark 1:12-15

The Spirit drove Jesus out into the wilderness and he remained there for forty days, and was tempted by Satan. He was with the wild beasts, and the angels looked after him.

After John had been arrested, Jesus went into Galilee. There he proclaimed the Good News from God. ‘The time has come’ he said ‘and the kingdom of God is close at hand. Repent, and believe the Good News.’

This section is designed to be adapted depending on how you are gathering to pray. There are links to external resources for children and young people. There is also a reflection which can be used by individuals or adapted to be used in groups.

Loving God, we praise you for the chance to enter the desert with your Son. You desire for us to rely on you alone, and we ask for the grace to do so. Help us turn away from sin and turn toward you so our hearts may be changed by your love for us. We thank you for your covenant with us and for the way Jesus fulfills your covenant. Please give us faith, hope, and love. In your name we pray. Amen.