Heavenly Father,
Lord of mercy and justice,
We come before You humbled and repentant, mindful of the sins that wound our world and cry out to heaven. Like the people of Nineveh, we acknowledge our need for Your mercy. We confess that our society has turned away from Your law, that we have tolerated evil, and that the innocent have suffered because of our sins.
Have mercy on us, O Lord.
Forgive the sins of our nation and of the whole world. Forgive the sins committed against the vulnerable, especially against children. Bring to light what is hidden in darkness, break the power of evil, and restore justice where it has been denied.
With contrite hearts we offer this day of prayer and fasting in reparation for the grave sins of our time and in humble petition for Your mercy. Heal those who have been wounded. Comfort those who have suffered injustice. Protect the innocent and defend the weak.
Turn hearts away from sin and back to Your truth. Grant the grace of repentance to those who have done evil, that they may turn from darkness and seek Your mercy. Purify Your Church, renew our hearts, and strengthen all who seek to live in fidelity to Your law.
Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins, but according to the greatness of Your mercy. Look upon our prayer and fasting with compassion, and in Your mercy bring healing, purification, and renewal to our world.
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.