Lord. Amen

Thou hast, O Lord, given power to thy church to forgive sins in thy name: thou hast promised pardon to those who do pen- ance. Behold the prodigal child, nay, worse than the prodigal. 1 have disfigured and defiled my soul, that was created to thy Digitized by GoOgk PRAYERS own image and likeness. I have forfeited my title to tnat eternity of happiness which was prepared for me. I have nourished sin in my bosom, the most poisonous of serpents, and the most hateful of monsters. Alas ! I have offended him, by whose blood I was redeemed. I have been the cause of his sufferings: I have renewed his death, and crucified him again, by my sins. Oh ! who will give sorrow to my heart, and a fountain of tears to my eyes, that I may bewail my iniquities in the bitterness of my soul. Have compassion on me, O most lovmc Father! I throw myself into the arms of thy infinite mercy. Clothe me with thy grace, and admit me to thy sa- crament of reconciliation. Cast out or my heart whatever thou knowest profanes or de- files thy temple. Root out of my soul what- ever is displeasing unto thee ; and lay in me the foundation of anew life. I renounce and utterly detest all my sins for the love of thee. 0 my God of infinite bounty and goodness, I am neartily sorry for having offended thee. 1 beg and hope for pardon, through the merits of thine only Son, my Saviour, Jesus Christ. Accept his passion and death in satisfaction for my offences, and for his sake have mercy on me, whoso only hope is in thy mercy. Amen