Lenten Evening Prayer 2021 ENGLISH version - Book - Page 11
Words of Pope Francis
The Church must step outside herself. To go where? To the outskirts of
existence, whatever that may be, but she must step out. Jesus tells us, “Go
into all the world! Go! Preach! Bear witness to the Gospel!” I far prefer a
Church that has had a few accidents to a Church that has fallen sick from
being closed. Go out, go out!...how often is Jesus inside and knocking at
the door to be let out, to come out? And we do not let him out because of
our own need for security…’
(Pope Francis, The Church of Mercy, p.99)
Reflection
(Given by guest speaker, priest, deacon, religious or lay parishioner)
Pause for silent reflection
Gospel Canticle (Lk 1:46-55)
All Stand
Leader:
All:
Repent
And believe in the Good News
LHS:
My soul † proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,
for you, Lord, have looked with favour
on your lowly servant.
RHS:
From this day all generations will call me blessed;
you, the Almighty, have done great things for me
and holy is your name.
You have mercy on those who fear you,
from generation to generation.
LHS:
You have shown strength with your arm
and scattered the proud in their conceit,
casting down the mighty from their thrones
Week One - Rebuild My Church
11