The Great Litany

Worship planners can learn valuable lessons from traditional liturgical texts. Notice how this text expresses reverence for God, trust in God's power to act in a vast variety of circumstances, and an attitude of humility. Use this prayer during the season of Lent or adapt as needed, keeping in mind its reverent and humble spirit. The Great Litany below is a penitential prayer that may be used as the Entrance Rite during one or more Sundays of Lent. Traditionally it is used on the First Sunday of Lent, at least to express the penitential character of the season. The ministers may process to their places in silence as the congregation stands. The ministers may prostrate themselves on the floor for a short time. Then the entire congregation kneels as together the litany is said or sung. This litany may replace all the usual acts of Entrance, and the Service of the Word may commence after the litany has been completed. The bold text is spoken by all. O God the Father, Creator of heaven…