As we begin these sacred three days and prepare through fasting and prayer to celebrate the paschal feast, let us earnestly pray to God for all those gathered tonight with Christ and for all peoples everywhere. Please respond to each prayer with silence.
For the holy catholic church throughout the world, sharing the death and resurrection of Christ.
For Melissa and Brian, our bishops; for Joseph, our vicar; for presbyters and deacons; for all who minister in Christ, and for all the holy people of God.
For our catechumens and their sponsors.
For all nations, peoples, tribes, clans, and families.
For justice, mercy, and peace in all the world.
For all who are tempted, oppressed, afflicted, or in need.
For the dying and the dead, and for those who mourn.
For our own families, friends, and companions, and for all those we love.
Remembering the blessed Virgin Mary; Hilda, Patrick, and all the saints, we offer ourselves and one another to you, our living God, through Christ.
Amen.