2. God of mercy and compassion,

3. we come to You in our need

4. and lift up to you our nation

5. as we prepare for the apostolic visit of Pope Francis.

6. That we may be faithful to the Pope, the Vicar of Christ on earth. Leader:

7. BLESS YOUR CHURCH, LORD! ALL:

8. That we may be eager to meet and listen to Pope Francis. Leader:

9. BLESS YOUR CHURCH, LORD! ALL:

10. That we may be compassionate with the poor and the needy. Leader:

11. BLESS YOUR CHURCH, LORD! ALL:

12. That we may be merciful with the weak and the lost. Leader:

13. BLESS YOUR CHURCH, LORD! ALL:

14. That we may humbly confess our sins and return to God. Leader:

15. BLESS YOUR CHURCH, LORD! ALL:

16. That we may frequently and devoutly receive Holy Communion. Leader:

17. BLESS YOUR CHURCH, LORD! ALL:

18. Let us pray. Leader:

19. God our Father, we are all your children.

20. Make of us a nation of mercy and compassion

21. eager to meet Pope Francis.

22. Make us a nation of holiness and heroism

23. through Christ our Lord. Amen