Prayer (traditional language)

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, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Almighty and everlasting God, who hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all 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 you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

First Reading: Joel 2:11-2,12-17
(The prophet warns of a coming day of judgement, but urges the people to repent and seek the mercy of the Lord.)

Alternate Reading: Isaiah 58:1-12
(The prophet warns that fasting and other religious observances are useless if there is no accompanying repentance and wish to amend one's life.)

Psalm 103 (or 103:8-14)
(A hymn of thanksgiving for the Lord's acts of healing and forgiveness.)

Epistle: 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10
(Paul, speaking on behalf of Christ, urges his readers to accept the healing grace of God.)

The Holy Gospel: Matthew 6:1-6,16-21
(Jesus reminds us that acts of prayer, almsgiving, and fasting, are to be done, not for the approval of men, but in gratitude to God.)

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