Liturgical Information
The Third Sunday of Lent (C)

Themes & Motives: deliverance, justice, repentance, awe

Introit:
My eyes are ever fixed on the Lord, for he releases my feet from the snare, O look at me and be merciful, for I am wretched and alone. (Psalm 25:15-16)

Opening Prayer:
Father,
you have taught us to overcome our sins
by prayer, fasting and works of mercy.
When we are discouraged by our weakness,
give us confidence in your love.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

• Exodus 3:1-8a,13-15 [I AM has sent me to you. /v.14]
• Psalm 103:1-2 / 3-4 / 6-7 / 8,11 [R. The Lord is kind and merciful. /v.8a]
• I Corinthians 10:1-6,10-12 [Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. /v.12]
• Gospel Verse: Mt 4:17 [Repent, says the Lord; the kingdom of heaven is at hand.]
• Luke 13:1-9 [Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. /v.3]

Prayer over the Gifts:
Lord,
by the grace of this sacrifice
may we who ask forgiveness
be ready to forgive one another.
We ask this in the name of Jesus the Lord. Amen.

Preface for Lent I: [The Spiritual Meaning of Lent]
Father, all-powerful and ever-living God,
we do well always and everywhere to give you thanks
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Each year you give us this joyful season,
when we prepare to celebrate the paschal mystery
with mind and heart renewed.
You give us a spirit of loving reverence for you, our Father,
and of willing service to our neighbor.

As we recall the great events that gave us new life in Christ,
you bring the image of your Son to perfection within us.

Now, with the angels and archangels,
and the whole company of heaven,
we sing the unending hymn of your praise:

  Holy, holy, holy Lord...

Communion Antiphon:
The sparrow even finds a home, the swallow finds a nest wherein to place her young, near to your altars, Lord of hosts, my King, my God! How happy they who dwell in your house! For ever they are praising you. (Ps 84:4-5)

Prayer after Communion:
Lord,
in sharing this sacrament
may we receive your forgiveness
and be brought together in unity and peace.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Solemn Blesing:
The Father of mercies has given us an example of unselfish love
in the sufferings of his only Son.
Through your service of God and neighbor
may you receive his countless blessings. Amen.

You believe that by his dying
Christ destroyed death for ever.
May he give you everlasting life. Amen.

He humbled himself for our sakes.
May you follow his example
and share in his resurrection. Amen.