Merciful God, you called us forth from the dust of the earth;

you claimed us for Christ in the waters of baptism.

Look upon us as we enter these Forty Days

bearing the mark of ashes,

and bless our journey through the desert of Lent

to the font of rebirth.

May our fasting be hunger for justice;

our alms, a making of peace;

our prayer, the chant of humble and grateful hearts.

All that we do and pray in the name of Jesus,

for in his cross you proclaim your love

forever and ever.