Priest:
Brothers and sisters, as we begin our Lenten journey with Christ in the desert and hear the call to choose obedience and life, let us place our prayers before God with humility and trust.

For the Church throughout the world:
that she may walk faithfully with Christ through this season of repentance, resisting the deceit of sin and leading all people into the freedom of the Gospel.
Lord, hear us.

For those who govern nations and communities:
that they may reject the false promises of power and self-interest, and choose what serves life, justice, and the dignity of every human person.
Lord, hear us.

For those who struggle with temptation, guilt, or fear:
that Christ, who overcame the devil in the wilderness, may strengthen them to resist evil and begin again in repentance and hope.
Lord, hear us.

For the sick, the suffering, and the lonely, and for those who have died:
that the Lord who shared our weakness may bring healing to the living and eternal rest to the dead.
Lord, hear us.

For this parish community at the beginning of Lent:
that our prayer, fasting, and almsgiving may be sincere, and that we may learn each day to choose obedience to God rather than the false freedom of sin.
Lord, hear us.

Let us now pause and offer in silence the prayers we hold in our hearts.
(silent prayer)

Let us entrust these prayers to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

All:
Hail Mary…

Priest:
Father of mercy,
you set before us life and death, blessing and curse.
Hear the prayers we make in faith,
and lead us through this holy season
into the freedom and life of your Son,
who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
Amen.