We are now in the season of Lent, the
forty days (not counting Sundays) before Easter. During Lent we prepare our
hearts for Easter by self-examination, repentance, and confession of sins. Lent
begins with Ash Wednesday and continues through Holy Saturday. The liturgical
color for Lent is purple, as it is for all penitential seasons.
Almighty and everlasting God, who hatest nothing that thou hast
made, and dost forgive the sins of all those 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 thee, the God of all mercy,
perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Almighty God, who seest that we have no power of ourselves to
help ourselves; Keep us both outwardly in our bodies, and inwardly in our
souls; that we may be defended from all adversities which may happen to the
body, and from all evil thoughts which may assault and hurt the soul; through
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Almighty and everlasting God, who, of thy tender love towards
mankind, has sent thy Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ, to take upon him our flesh
and to suffer death upon the cross, that all mankind should follow the example
of his great humility; Mercifully grant, that we may both follow the example of
his patience, and also be made partakers of his resurrection; through the same
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.