∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

The following presentation is made possible 

By the generosity of the viewers 

Of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls in Chicago. 

Good morning, and welcome to Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. 

Today we celebrate the Fourth Sunday of Lent. 

My name is Dan Riley. 

I am joined by Tom McNamara and Maudette Carr, 

And our celebrant is Father Carl Morello. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Gathered as one in Jesus your son, ∫ 

∫ Lifting our voices in praise, we know and believe ∫ 

∫ And long to receive the bread that is strength for our days. ∫ 

∫ Gathered as one. ∫ 

In the name of the father, and of the son, and of the holy spirit. 

-Amen. 

May the grace, the peace, the love of God be with each of you. 

-And with your spirit. 

Trusting always God’s mercy and love for us, 

We call to mind our sins. 

Lord Jesus, you heal the sick. 

Lord, have mercy. 

-Lord, have mercy. 

Lord Jesus, you forgave sinners. 

Christ, have mercy. 

-Christ, have mercy. 

Lord Jesus, you gave yourself to heal us and bring us strength. 

Lord, have mercy. 

-Lord, have mercy. 

May almighty God who loves us have mercy on us, 

Forgive us any of our sins 

And one day bring us to what the eucharist points toward 

The banquet of everlasting life. 

-Amen. 

Let us pray. 

O God who through your word reconciled the human race 

To yourself in a wonderful way, 

Grant we pray that with prompt devotion and eager faith, 

The Christian people may hasten 

Toward the solemn celebrations to come. 

Through our Lord, Jesus Christ, your son, 

Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the holy spirit, 

God forever and ever. 

-Amen. 

A reading from the book of Joshua. 

The Lord said to Joshua, 

“Today I have removed the reproach of Egypt from you.” 

While the Israelites were encamped at Gilgal 

On the plains of Jericho, they celebrated the Passover 

On the evening of the 14th of the month. 

On the day after the Passover, 

They ate of the produce of the land in the form 

Of unleavened cakes and parched grain. 

On that same day after the Passover 

On which they ate the produce of the land, the manna ceased. 

No longer was there manna for the Israelites 

Who that year ate of the yield of the land of Canaan. 

The word of the Lord. 

-Thanks be to God. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. ∫ 

∫ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. ∫ 

∫ I will bless the Lord at all times, ∫ 

∫ Praise of him is always in my mouth, ∫ 

∫ In the Lord my soul shall make its boast, ∫ 

∫ The humble shall hear and be glad. ∫ 

∫ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. ∫ 

A reading from the second letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians. 

Brothers and sisters, whoever is in Christ is a new creation. 

The old things have passed away. 

Behold, new things have come. 

And all this is from God who has 

Reconciled us to himself through Christ 

And given us the ministry of reconciliation. 

Namely, God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, 

Not counting their trespasses against them 

And entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 

So we are ambassadors for Christ 

As if God were appealing through us. 

We implore you on behalf of Christ be reconciled to God. 

For our sake, he made him to be sin who did not know sin 

So that we might become the righteousness of God in him. 

The word of the Lord. 

-Thanks be to God. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Praise to you, word of God, Lord Jesus Christ. ∫ 

∫ Praise to you, word of God, Lord Jesus Christ. ∫ 

∫ I will get up and go to my father ∫ 

∫ And shall say to him, “father, I have sinned ∫ 

∫ Against Heaven and against you.” ∫ 

∫ Praise to you, word of God, Lord Jesus Christ. ∫ 

Brothers and sisters in faith, the Lord be with you. 

-And with your spirit. 

This is a reading from the holy gospel now according to Luke. 

-Glory to you, O Lord. 

Tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near 

To listen to Jesus, 

But the pharisees and scribes began to complain saying, 

“This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 

So to them Jesus addressed this parable: 

A man had two sons, the younger son said to his father, 

“Give me the share of your estate. 

That should come to me.” 

So the father divided the property between them. 

After a few days, the younger son 

Collected all his belongings and he set off 

For a distant country where he squandered his inheritance. 

When he had freely spent everything, 

A severe famine struck that country 

And he found himself in dire need. 

So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens 

Who sent him to his farm to tend to the swine. 

As he longed to eat his fill of the pods 

On which the swine fed, nobody gave him any. 

Coming to his senses, he thought, 

How many of my father’s hired workers have more 

Than enough to eat, but here I am dying from hunger.” 

I shall get up, go to my father, and say to him, 

“Father, I have sinned against Heaven and against you. 

I no longer deserve to be called your son. 

Treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers.” 

So he got up and he went back to his father. 

While he was still a long way off, 

His father caught sight of him 

And was filled with compassion. 

He ran to his son and embraced him and kissed him. 

His son said to him, 

“Father, I have sinned against Heaven and against you. 

I no longer deserve to be called your son.” 

But his father ordered his servants, 

“Quickly bring the finest robe, put it on him. 

Put a ring on his finger, sandals on his feet. 

Then take the fattened calf, slaughter it. 

Then let us celebrate with a feast, 

Because this son of mine was dead and became to life again. 

He was lost, but now he is found.” 

Then the celebration began. 

Now the older son had been out in the field 

And on his way back as he neared the house, 

He heard the sound of music and dancing. 

He called one of the servants and asked what this might mean. 

And the servant said to him, “your brother has returned. 

Your father has slaughtered the fattened calf 

Because he has him back safe and sound.” 

He became angry. 

And when he refused to enter the house, 

His father came out and pleaded with him. 

He said to his father in reply, “look, all these years 

I served you, and not once did I disobey your order. 

Yet you never gave me even a young goat 

To feast on with my friends. 

But when your son returns, who swallowed up 

Your property with prostitutes, 

You slaughter the fattened calf.” 

He said to him, “my son, you are here with me always. 

Everything I have is yours. 

But now we must celebrate and rejoice. 

Your brother was dead and has come to life again. 

He was lost, but now he is found.” 

The gospel of the Lord. 

-Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. 

 

A cell phone, Facebook, email, text message, a letter. What do all of these things have in common? They’re all ways today that people send messages to each other. They’re all ways of communication. 

 

However, still the best way to send a message or communicate is in person, and that is face to face. And this is why God decided to send a message of love to the world. God sent Jesus, and then Jesus sends us. He sends out his disciples. And that’s our task today. 

 

Friends, we’re reminded in the gospel story we just heard about one important aspect of being a disciple of Jesus. And to represent Jesus in the world, to be a faithful disciple of his, is to be dedicated to the hard work, the hard work of forgiveness and reconciliation. And in many ways, this is at the cutting edge of the message of Christ. That’s what we hear in the gospel today. 

 

And so this story presents us with the ultimate example of forgiveness. Reconciliation occurs between the father and the son, but sadly it is withheld by the older brother. 

 

I’ll share with you this cute little story about one of my visits to school to talk with some of the children about this particular gospel story. And at the time when I was talking about it, I asked the kids, these were first graders that I’m talking to. 

 

I asked the children the question, “Who was the most sad or sorry to see the prodigal son come home?” And then all these little hands go up and one little boy just blurts out, “the fatted calf.” Interesting point of view from the kids. It’s not the answer I expected. Of course, we know it was the older brother. When he sees how warmly and forgiving his father is welcoming his younger brother. Instead of feeling happy and rejoicing, he’s angry and he refuses to join in the welcome home celebration. 

 

What I want us to think about today is this: forgiveness is about being a home for someone who is wanting to return. And that’s what the father did. He was home for his returning son. And now the father also has to find a way to be home again to that son who never left but was angry and he put himself outside the home. Jesus shows us that forgiveness is not easy to do. We know that. But it is part of a circle of mercy. And we cannot fully experience God’s mercy and forgiveness unless we are willing to forgive. That’s a tall and difficult order at times. 

 

In our mass, in our celebration today, may we find the grace and strength to be a part of God’s circle of mercy. Not a vicious circle, but a gracious circle of mercy. That’s one of the most important aspects of being a disciple of Jesus. 

 

As a disciple of Jesus, let us profess now 

In the apostles’ creed: I believe in God, 

The father almighty, creator of Heaven and Earth. 

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only son, our Lord. 

He was conceived by the holy spirit 

And born of the Virgin Mary. 

He suffered under Pontius Pilate, 

Was crucified, died and was buried. 

He descended to the dead. 

On the third day he rose again. 

He ascended into Heaven 

And is seated at the right hand of the father. 

He will come again to judge the living and the dead. 

I believe in the holy spirit, the holy catholic church, 

The communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, 

The resurrection of the body and life everlasting. 

Amen. 

As a people gathered in faith, hope and love, 

Let us bring our needs to the Lord. 

Our response to each prayer will be, “Lord, hear our prayer.” 

For the church, 

May she be a light and a beacon of hope for all people. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

For those who suffer, 

May God bless them with courage during difficult times. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

For the children of Mercy Home, 

May they feel Christ’s love as they heal. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

For our deceased loved ones, 

May they rest in God’s eternal kingdom. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

And loving God, hear our prayer spoken out loud 

And those we hold in our hearts as we desire to be a part 

Of your circle of mercy as we follow Christ our Lord. 

Amen. 

∫ [Music] ∫ 

Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation. 

Through your goodness we have bread to offer, 

Which Earth is given human hands have made. 

May it become for us the bread of life. 

Blessed be God forever. 

Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation. 

Through your goodness we have wine to offer. 

Fruit of the vine, work of human hands 

May it become our spiritual drink. 

Blessed be God forever. 

Lord wash away my iniquities and cleanse me of all sin. 

Pray with me in faith that these gifts of bread and wine 

Offered today be acceptable to our almighty and loving God. 

-May the Lord accept the sacrifice at our hands 

For the praise and glory of God’s name, 

For our good and the good of all God’s holy church. 

We place before you with joy these offerings, 

Which bring eternal remedy, O Lord, 

Praying that we may both faithfully revere them 

And present them to you as is fitting for the salvation of all the world. 

Through Christ our Lord. 

-Amen. 

The Lord be with you. 

-And with your spirit. 

Lift up your hearts. 

-We lift them up to the Lord. 

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. 

-It is right and just. 

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, 

Always and everywhere to give you thanks 

Lord, holy father, almighty eternal God, 

Through Christ our Lord. 

By the mystery of the incarnation, 

He has led the human race that walked in darkness 

Into the radiance of the faith 

And has brought those born in slavery to ancient sin 

Through the waters of regeneration 

To make them your adopted children. 

Therefore all creatures of Heaven and Earth 

Sing a new song and adoration as we with all 

The host of angels cry out and without end acclaim. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of hosts, ∫ 

∫ Heaven and Earth are full of your glory. ∫ 

∫ Hosanna in the highest. ∫ 

∫ Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. ∫ 

∫ Hosanna in the highest. ∫ 

You are holy indeed. 

The font of all holiness, O Lord. 

Make holy therefore these gifts we pray now 

By sending down your spirit upon them like the dewfall 

So that they may become for us 

The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

At the time he was betrayed and entered willingly into his passion, 

He took bread and giving thanks broke it. 

He gave it to the disciples saying, 

“Take this, all of you, eat of it. 

This is my body which will be given up for you.” 

In a similar way when the supper ended, he took the chalice. 

Once more giving thanks, he gave it to the disciples saying, 

“Take this, all of you, drink from it. 

For this is the chalice of my blood, 

The blood of the new eternal covenant. 

It will be poured out for you and for many 

For the forgiveness of sin. 

Do this in memory of me.” 

The mystery of our faith. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ When we eat this bread and drink this cup, ∫ 

∫ We proclaim your death, O Lord, ∫ 

∫ Until you come again. ∫ 

Therefore as we celebrate this memorial 

Of his death and resurrection, we offer you, Lord, 

The bread of life, the chalice of salvation, 

Giving thanks, that you have held us worthy 

To be in your presence and minister to you. 

Humbly, we pray that partaking of the body 

And blood of Christ, 

We may be gathered into one by the holy spirit. 

Remember, Lord, your church spread throughout the world 

And bring her to the fullness of charity 

Together with Francis, our pope, 

Blase, our archbishop, 

And all who minister in your church everywhere. 

We pray for all our brothers and sisters 

Who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection 

And all who have died in your mercy. 

Welcome them into the light of your face. 

Have mercy on us all, we pray, 

That with the blessed Virgin Mary, mother of God, 

With Joseph, her spouse, 

With the blessed apostles, and all the saints 

Who have pleased you throughout the ages, 

We may merit to be co-heirs 

To eternal life and there praise and glorify you 

Through your son, Jesus Christ. 

Through him, with him, and in him, 

O God, almighty father, in the unity of the holy spirit, 

All glory and honor are yours forever and ever. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Amen, amen, amen. ∫ 

We pray now as Jesus taught: 

Our father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name, 

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done 

On Earth as it is in Heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread 

And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those 

Who trespass against us 

And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. 

Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, 

Graciously grant peace in our days, 

That by the help of your mercy we may be always 

Free from sin and safe from all distress 

As we await the blessed hope 

And the coming of our savior, Jesus Christ. 

For the kingdom, the power, 

And the glory are yours now and forever. 

Lord Jesus Christ, you said to your friends, 

“I leave you peace, my peace I give you.” 

Look not on our sins but on the faith of your church 

And graciously grant her peace and unity 

In accordance with your will who live and reigns 

Forever and ever. 

Amen. 

The peace of the Lord be with you always. 

-And with your spirit. 

Let us offer each other some gesture of peace. 

Friends, from all of us here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, 

To all of you folks at home, 

We extend the peace of Christ. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. ∫ 

∫ Have mercy on us. ∫ 

∫ Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. ∫ 

∫ Have mercy on us. ∫ 

∫ Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. ∫ 

∫ Grant us peace. ∫ 

Friends we behold Jesus, 

Who calls us to be part of his circle of mercy. 

Strengthened are we sharing now in the supper of the lamb. 

Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, 

But only say the word and my soul shall be healed. 

May the body of Christ, may the blood of Christ 

Keep us safe forever lasting life. 

-Amen. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

For those of you at home, please turn to page six 

In your tv mass guide and join in singing 

Our communion song, “merciful God.” 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God. ∫ 

∫ Light, when the shadows of life cloud our view, ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God, ∫ 

∫ People who hunger for you. ∫ 

∫ Surely you alone can save us. ∫ 

∫ You pay our price with precious blood. ∫ 

∫ Reaching through your great compassion, ∫ 

∫ You lift up your people with love. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God. ∫ 

∫ Light when the shadows of life cloud our view. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God, ∫ 

∫ People who hunger for you. ∫ 

∫ Surely you alone redeem us. ∫ 

∫ You fill our dust with holy breath. ∫ 

∫ Bursting from the grave to glory, ∫ 

∫ You rise from the ashes of death. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God. ∫ 

∫ Light when the shadows of life cloud our view. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God, ∫ 

∫ People who hunger for you. ∫ 

I invite you to join me now 

In the prayer for the children of Mercy Home: 

Our lady of mercy, we pray that you will guide, 

Protect, and bless all boys and girls 

Who this day have a home called mercy. 

May they find the father’s mercy as we offer them 

Our hearts in the name of your son, Jesus Christ. 

May they see God’s mercy in action 

Through our love, prayers, and sacrifices. 

The Lord be with you. 

-And with your spirit. 

Let us bow our heads and ask God’s blessing. 

O God, who enlighten everyone who comes into this world. 

Illuminate our hearts, we pray, 

With the splendor of your grace that we may always ponder 

What is worthy and pleasing to your majesty 

And love you in all sincerity through Christ our Lord. 

Amen. 

And Lord, look upon those who call to you 

And sustain the week. 

Give life by your unfailing light to those 

Who walk in the shadow of death 

And bring those rescued by your mercy from every evil 

To reach the highest good through Christ our Lord. 

-Amen. 

We go forward now with confidence 

As we ask God to bless us: 

The father, the son, and the holy spirit. 

-Amen. 

We go in peace to love and serve God 

By our continued care for each other. 

-Thanks be to God. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ God’s blessing sends us forth, ∫ 

∫ Strengthened for our task on Earth, ∫ 

∫ Refreshed in soul ∫ 

∫ And renewed in mind. ∫ 

∫ May God with us remain through us the spirit reign ∫ 

∫ That Christ be known to humankind. ∫ 

My friends, I just want to thank you for the ways 

In which you support the tv mass 

Here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. 

Let us continue to pray for one another. 

Please consider making an offering 

So that we can keep the tv mass on the air. 

May God bless you, your family members, and your friends. 

The music for the broadcast of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home 

Is generously provided by G-I-A Publications Incorporated 

And its World Library Publications Division. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

The following presentation is made possible 

By the generosity of the viewers 

Of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls in Chicago. 

Good morning, and welcome to Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. 

Today we celebrate the Fourth Sunday of Lent. 

My name is Dan Riley. 

I am joined by Tom McNamara and Maudette Carr, 

And our celebrant is Father Carl Morello. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Gathered as one in Jesus your son, ∫ 

∫ Lifting our voices in praise, we know and believe ∫ 

∫ And long to receive the bread that is strength for our days. ∫ 

∫ Gathered as one. ∫ 

In the name of the father, and of the son, and of the holy spirit. 

-Amen. 

May the grace, the peace, the love of God be with each of you. 

-And with your spirit. 

Trusting always God’s mercy and love for us, 

We call to mind our sins. 

Lord Jesus, you heal the sick. 

Lord, have mercy. 

-Lord, have mercy. 

Lord Jesus, you forgave sinners. 

Christ, have mercy. 

-Christ, have mercy. 

Lord Jesus, you gave yourself to heal us and bring us strength. 

Lord, have mercy. 

-Lord, have mercy. 

May almighty God who loves us have mercy on us, 

Forgive us any of our sins 

And one day bring us to what the eucharist points toward 

The banquet of everlasting life. 

-Amen. 

Let us pray. 

O God who through your word reconciled the human race 

To yourself in a wonderful way, 

Grant we pray that with prompt devotion and eager faith, 

The Christian people may hasten 

Toward the solemn celebrations to come. 

Through our Lord, Jesus Christ, your son, 

Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the holy spirit, 

God forever and ever. 

-Amen. 

A reading from the book of Joshua. 

The Lord said to Joshua, 

“Today I have removed the reproach of Egypt from you.” 

While the Israelites were encamped at Gilgal 

On the plains of Jericho, they celebrated the Passover 

On the evening of the 14th of the month. 

On the day after the Passover, 

They ate of the produce of the land in the form 

Of unleavened cakes and parched grain. 

On that same day after the Passover 

On which they ate the produce of the land, the manna ceased. 

No longer was there manna for the Israelites 

Who that year ate of the yield of the land of Canaan. 

The word of the Lord. 

-Thanks be to God. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. ∫ 

∫ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. ∫ 

∫ I will bless the Lord at all times, ∫ 

∫ Praise of him is always in my mouth, ∫ 

∫ In the Lord my soul shall make its boast, ∫ 

∫ The humble shall hear and be glad. ∫ 

∫ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. ∫ 

A reading from the second letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians. 

Brothers and sisters, whoever is in Christ is a new creation. 

The old things have passed away. 

Behold, new things have come. 

And all this is from God who has 

Reconciled us to himself through Christ 

And given us the ministry of reconciliation. 

Namely, God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, 

Not counting their trespasses against them 

And entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 

So we are ambassadors for Christ 

As if God were appealing through us. 

We implore you on behalf of Christ be reconciled to God. 

For our sake, he made him to be sin who did not know sin 

So that we might become the righteousness of God in him. 

The word of the Lord. 

-Thanks be to God. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Praise to you, word of God, Lord Jesus Christ. ∫ 

∫ Praise to you, word of God, Lord Jesus Christ. ∫ 

∫ I will get up and go to my father ∫ 

∫ And shall say to him, “father, I have sinned ∫ 

∫ Against Heaven and against you.” ∫ 

∫ Praise to you, word of God, Lord Jesus Christ. ∫ 

Brothers and sisters in faith, the Lord be with you. 

-And with your spirit. 

This is a reading from the holy gospel now according to Luke. 

-Glory to you, O Lord. 

Tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near 

To listen to Jesus, 

But the pharisees and scribes began to complain saying, 

“This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 

So to them Jesus addressed this parable: 

A man had two sons, the younger son said to his father, 

“Give me the share of your estate. 

That should come to me.” 

So the father divided the property between them. 

After a few days, the younger son 

Collected all his belongings and he set off 

For a distant country where he squandered his inheritance. 

When he had freely spent everything, 

A severe famine struck that country 

And he found himself in dire need. 

So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens 

Who sent him to his farm to tend to the swine. 

As he longed to eat his fill of the pods 

On which the swine fed, nobody gave him any. 

Coming to his senses, he thought, 

How many of my father’s hired workers have more 

Than enough to eat, but here I am dying from hunger.” 

I shall get up, go to my father, and say to him, 

“Father, I have sinned against Heaven and against you. 

I no longer deserve to be called your son. 

Treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers.” 

So he got up and he went back to his father. 

While he was still a long way off, 

His father caught sight of him 

And was filled with compassion. 

He ran to his son and embraced him and kissed him. 

His son said to him, 

“Father, I have sinned against Heaven and against you. 

I no longer deserve to be called your son.” 

But his father ordered his servants, 

“Quickly bring the finest robe, put it on him. 

Put a ring on his finger, sandals on his feet. 

Then take the fattened calf, slaughter it. 

Then let us celebrate with a feast, 

Because this son of mine was dead and became to life again. 

He was lost, but now he is found.” 

Then the celebration began. 

Now the older son had been out in the field 

And on his way back as he neared the house, 

He heard the sound of music and dancing. 

He called one of the servants and asked what this might mean. 

And the servant said to him, “your brother has returned. 

Your father has slaughtered the fattened calf 

Because he has him back safe and sound.” 

He became angry. 

And when he refused to enter the house, 

His father came out and pleaded with him. 

He said to his father in reply, “look, all these years 

I served you, and not once did I disobey your order. 

Yet you never gave me even a young goat 

To feast on with my friends. 

But when your son returns, who swallowed up 

Your property with prostitutes, 

You slaughter the fattened calf.” 

He said to him, “my son, you are here with me always. 

Everything I have is yours. 

But now we must celebrate and rejoice. 

Your brother was dead and has come to life again. 

He was lost, but now he is found.” 

The gospel of the Lord. 

-Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. 

 

A cell phone, Facebook, email, text message, a letter. What do all of these things have in common? They’re all ways today that people send messages to each other. They’re all ways of communication. 

 

However, still the best way to send a message or communicate is in person, and that is face to face. And this is why God decided to send a message of love to the world. God sent Jesus, and then Jesus sends us. He sends out his disciples. And that’s our task today. 

 

Friends, we’re reminded in the gospel story we just heard about one important aspect of being a disciple of Jesus. And to represent Jesus in the world, to be a faithful disciple of his, is to be dedicated to the hard work, the hard work of forgiveness and reconciliation. And in many ways, this is at the cutting edge of the message of Christ. That’s what we hear in the gospel today. 

 

And so this story presents us with the ultimate example of forgiveness. Reconciliation occurs between the father and the son, but sadly it is withheld by the older brother. 

 

I’ll share with you this cute little story about one of my visits to school to talk with some of the children about this particular gospel story. And at the time when I was talking about it, I asked the kids, these were first graders that I’m talking to. 

 

I asked the children the question, “Who was the most sad or sorry to see the prodigal son come home?” And then all these little hands go up and one little boy just blurts out, “the fatted calf.” Interesting point of view from the kids. It’s not the answer I expected. Of course, we know it was the older brother. When he sees how warmly and forgiving his father is welcoming his younger brother. Instead of feeling happy and rejoicing, he’s angry and he refuses to join in the welcome home celebration. 

 

What I want us to think about today is this: forgiveness is about being a home for someone who is wanting to return. And that’s what the father did. He was home for his returning son. And now the father also has to find a way to be home again to that son who never left but was angry and he put himself outside the home. Jesus shows us that forgiveness is not easy to do. We know that. But it is part of a circle of mercy. And we cannot fully experience God’s mercy and forgiveness unless we are willing to forgive. That’s a tall and difficult order at times. 

 

In our mass, in our celebration today, may we find the grace and strength to be a part of God’s circle of mercy. Not a vicious circle, but a gracious circle of mercy. That’s one of the most important aspects of being a disciple of Jesus. 

 

As a disciple of Jesus, let us profess now 

In the apostles’ creed: I believe in God, 

The father almighty, creator of Heaven and Earth. 

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only son, our Lord. 

He was conceived by the holy spirit 

And born of the Virgin Mary. 

He suffered under Pontius Pilate, 

Was crucified, died and was buried. 

He descended to the dead. 

On the third day he rose again. 

He ascended into Heaven 

And is seated at the right hand of the father. 

He will come again to judge the living and the dead. 

I believe in the holy spirit, the holy catholic church, 

The communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, 

The resurrection of the body and life everlasting. 

Amen. 

As a people gathered in faith, hope and love, 

Let us bring our needs to the Lord. 

Our response to each prayer will be, “Lord, hear our prayer.” 

For the church, 

May she be a light and a beacon of hope for all people. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

For those who suffer, 

May God bless them with courage during difficult times. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

For the children of Mercy Home, 

May they feel Christ’s love as they heal. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

For our deceased loved ones, 

May they rest in God’s eternal kingdom. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

And loving God, hear our prayer spoken out loud 

And those we hold in our hearts as we desire to be a part 

Of your circle of mercy as we follow Christ our Lord. 

Amen. 

∫ [Music] ∫ 

Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation. 

Through your goodness we have bread to offer, 

Which Earth is given human hands have made. 

May it become for us the bread of life. 

Blessed be God forever. 

Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation. 

Through your goodness we have wine to offer. 

Fruit of the vine, work of human hands 

May it become our spiritual drink. 

Blessed be God forever. 

Lord wash away my iniquities and cleanse me of all sin. 

Pray with me in faith that these gifts of bread and wine 

Offered today be acceptable to our almighty and loving God. 

-May the Lord accept the sacrifice at our hands 

For the praise and glory of God’s name, 

For our good and the good of all God’s holy church. 

We place before you with joy these offerings, 

Which bring eternal remedy, O Lord, 

Praying that we may both faithfully revere them 

And present them to you as is fitting for the salvation of all the world. 

Through Christ our Lord. 

-Amen. 

The Lord be with you. 

-And with your spirit. 

Lift up your hearts. 

-We lift them up to the Lord. 

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. 

-It is right and just. 

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, 

Always and everywhere to give you thanks 

Lord, holy father, almighty eternal God, 

Through Christ our Lord. 

By the mystery of the incarnation, 

He has led the human race that walked in darkness 

Into the radiance of the faith 

And has brought those born in slavery to ancient sin 

Through the waters of regeneration 

To make them your adopted children. 

Therefore all creatures of Heaven and Earth 

Sing a new song and adoration as we with all 

The host of angels cry out and without end acclaim. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of hosts, ∫ 

∫ Heaven and Earth are full of your glory. ∫ 

∫ Hosanna in the highest. ∫ 

∫ Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. ∫ 

∫ Hosanna in the highest. ∫ 

You are holy indeed. 

The font of all holiness, O Lord. 

Make holy therefore these gifts we pray now 

By sending down your spirit upon them like the dewfall 

So that they may become for us 

The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

At the time he was betrayed and entered willingly into his passion, 

He took bread and giving thanks broke it. 

He gave it to the disciples saying, 

“Take this, all of you, eat of it. 

This is my body which will be given up for you.” 

In a similar way when the supper ended, he took the chalice. 

Once more giving thanks, he gave it to the disciples saying, 

“Take this, all of you, drink from it. 

For this is the chalice of my blood, 

The blood of the new eternal covenant. 

It will be poured out for you and for many 

For the forgiveness of sin. 

Do this in memory of me.” 

The mystery of our faith. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ When we eat this bread and drink this cup, ∫ 

∫ We proclaim your death, O Lord, ∫ 

∫ Until you come again. ∫ 

Therefore as we celebrate this memorial 

Of his death and resurrection, we offer you, Lord, 

The bread of life, the chalice of salvation, 

Giving thanks, that you have held us worthy 

To be in your presence and minister to you. 

Humbly, we pray that partaking of the body 

And blood of Christ, 

We may be gathered into one by the holy spirit. 

Remember, Lord, your church spread throughout the world 

And bring her to the fullness of charity 

Together with Francis, our pope, 

Blase, our archbishop, 

And all who minister in your church everywhere. 

We pray for all our brothers and sisters 

Who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection 

And all who have died in your mercy. 

Welcome them into the light of your face. 

Have mercy on us all, we pray, 

That with the blessed Virgin Mary, mother of God, 

With Joseph, her spouse, 

With the blessed apostles, and all the saints 

Who have pleased you throughout the ages, 

We may merit to be co-heirs 

To eternal life and there praise and glorify you 

Through your son, Jesus Christ. 

Through him, with him, and in him, 

O God, almighty father, in the unity of the holy spirit, 

All glory and honor are yours forever and ever. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Amen, amen, amen. ∫ 

We pray now as Jesus taught: 

Our father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name, 

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done 

On Earth as it is in Heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread 

And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those 

Who trespass against us 

And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. 

Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, 

Graciously grant peace in our days, 

That by the help of your mercy we may be always 

Free from sin and safe from all distress 

As we await the blessed hope 

And the coming of our savior, Jesus Christ. 

For the kingdom, the power, 

And the glory are yours now and forever. 

Lord Jesus Christ, you said to your friends, 

“I leave you peace, my peace I give you.” 

Look not on our sins but on the faith of your church 

And graciously grant her peace and unity 

In accordance with your will who live and reigns 

Forever and ever. 

Amen. 

The peace of the Lord be with you always. 

-And with your spirit. 

Let us offer each other some gesture of peace. 

Friends, from all of us here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, 

To all of you folks at home, 

We extend the peace of Christ. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. ∫ 

∫ Have mercy on us. ∫ 

∫ Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. ∫ 

∫ Have mercy on us. ∫ 

∫ Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. ∫ 

∫ Grant us peace. ∫ 

Friends we behold Jesus, 

Who calls us to be part of his circle of mercy. 

Strengthened are we sharing now in the supper of the lamb. 

Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, 

But only say the word and my soul shall be healed. 

May the body of Christ, may the blood of Christ 

Keep us safe forever lasting life. 

-Amen. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

For those of you at home, please turn to page six 

In your tv mass guide and join in singing 

Our communion song, “merciful God.” 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God. ∫ 

∫ Light, when the shadows of life cloud our view, ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God, ∫ 

∫ People who hunger for you. ∫ 

∫ Surely you alone can save us. ∫ 

∫ You pay our price with precious blood. ∫ 

∫ Reaching through your great compassion, ∫ 

∫ You lift up your people with love. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God. ∫ 

∫ Light when the shadows of life cloud our view. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God, ∫ 

∫ People who hunger for you. ∫ 

∫ Surely you alone redeem us. ∫ 

∫ You fill our dust with holy breath. ∫ 

∫ Bursting from the grave to glory, ∫ 

∫ You rise from the ashes of death. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God. ∫ 

∫ Light when the shadows of life cloud our view. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God, ∫ 

∫ People who hunger for you. ∫ 

I invite you to join me now 

In the prayer for the children of Mercy Home: 

Our lady of mercy, we pray that you will guide, 

Protect, and bless all boys and girls 

Who this day have a home called mercy. 

May they find the father’s mercy as we offer them 

Our hearts in the name of your son, Jesus Christ. 

May they see God’s mercy in action 

Through our love, prayers, and sacrifices. 

The Lord be with you. 

-And with your spirit. 

Let us bow our heads and ask God’s blessing. 

O God, who enlighten everyone who comes into this world. 

Illuminate our hearts, we pray, 

With the splendor of your grace that we may always ponder 

What is worthy and pleasing to your majesty 

And love you in all sincerity through Christ our Lord. 

Amen. 

And Lord, look upon those who call to you 

And sustain the week. 

Give life by your unfailing light to those 

Who walk in the shadow of death 

And bring those rescued by your mercy from every evil 

To reach the highest good through Christ our Lord. 

-Amen. 

We go forward now with confidence 

As we ask God to bless us: 

The father, the son, and the holy spirit. 

-Amen. 

We go in peace to love and serve God 

By our continued care for each other. 

-Thanks be to God. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ God’s blessing sends us forth, ∫ 

∫ Strengthened for our task on Earth, ∫ 

∫ Refreshed in soul ∫ 

∫ And renewed in mind. ∫ 

∫ May God with us remain through us the spirit reign ∫ 

∫ That Christ be known to humankind. ∫ 

My friends, I just want to thank you for the ways 

In which you support the tv mass 

Here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. 

Let us continue to pray for one another. 

Please consider making an offering 

So that we can keep the tv mass on the air. 

May God bless you, your family members, and your friends. 

The music for the broadcast of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home 

Is generously provided by G-I-A Publications Incorporated 

And its World Library Publications Division. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

The following presentation is made possible 

By the generosity of the viewers 

Of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls in Chicago. 

Good morning, and welcome to Sunday Mass at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. 

Today we celebrate the Fourth Sunday of Lent. 

My name is Dan Riley. 

I am joined by Tom McNamara and Maudette Carr, 

And our celebrant is Father Carl Morello. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Gathered as one in Jesus your son, ∫ 

∫ Lifting our voices in praise, we know and believe ∫ 

∫ And long to receive the bread that is strength for our days. ∫ 

∫ Gathered as one. ∫ 

In the name of the father, and of the son, and of the holy spirit. 

-Amen. 

May the grace, the peace, the love of God be with each of you. 

-And with your spirit. 

Trusting always God’s mercy and love for us, 

We call to mind our sins. 

Lord Jesus, you heal the sick. 

Lord, have mercy. 

-Lord, have mercy. 

Lord Jesus, you forgave sinners. 

Christ, have mercy. 

-Christ, have mercy. 

Lord Jesus, you gave yourself to heal us and bring us strength. 

Lord, have mercy. 

-Lord, have mercy. 

May almighty God who loves us have mercy on us, 

Forgive us any of our sins 

And one day bring us to what the eucharist points toward 

The banquet of everlasting life. 

-Amen. 

Let us pray. 

O God who through your word reconciled the human race 

To yourself in a wonderful way, 

Grant we pray that with prompt devotion and eager faith, 

The Christian people may hasten 

Toward the solemn celebrations to come. 

Through our Lord, Jesus Christ, your son, 

Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the holy spirit, 

God forever and ever. 

-Amen. 

A reading from the book of Joshua. 

The Lord said to Joshua, 

“Today I have removed the reproach of Egypt from you.” 

While the Israelites were encamped at Gilgal 

On the plains of Jericho, they celebrated the Passover 

On the evening of the 14th of the month. 

On the day after the Passover, 

They ate of the produce of the land in the form 

Of unleavened cakes and parched grain. 

On that same day after the Passover 

On which they ate the produce of the land, the manna ceased. 

No longer was there manna for the Israelites 

Who that year ate of the yield of the land of Canaan. 

The word of the Lord. 

-Thanks be to God. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. ∫ 

∫ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. ∫ 

∫ I will bless the Lord at all times, ∫ 

∫ Praise of him is always in my mouth, ∫ 

∫ In the Lord my soul shall make its boast, ∫ 

∫ The humble shall hear and be glad. ∫ 

∫ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord. ∫ 

A reading from the second letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians. 

Brothers and sisters, whoever is in Christ is a new creation. 

The old things have passed away. 

Behold, new things have come. 

And all this is from God who has 

Reconciled us to himself through Christ 

And given us the ministry of reconciliation. 

Namely, God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, 

Not counting their trespasses against them 

And entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 

So we are ambassadors for Christ 

As if God were appealing through us. 

We implore you on behalf of Christ be reconciled to God. 

For our sake, he made him to be sin who did not know sin 

So that we might become the righteousness of God in him. 

The word of the Lord. 

-Thanks be to God. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Praise to you, word of God, Lord Jesus Christ. ∫ 

∫ Praise to you, word of God, Lord Jesus Christ. ∫ 

∫ I will get up and go to my father ∫ 

∫ And shall say to him, “father, I have sinned ∫ 

∫ Against Heaven and against you.” ∫ 

∫ Praise to you, word of God, Lord Jesus Christ. ∫ 

Brothers and sisters in faith, the Lord be with you. 

-And with your spirit. 

This is a reading from the holy gospel now according to Luke. 

-Glory to you, O Lord. 

Tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near 

To listen to Jesus, 

But the pharisees and scribes began to complain saying, 

“This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” 

So to them Jesus addressed this parable: 

A man had two sons, the younger son said to his father, 

“Give me the share of your estate. 

That should come to me.” 

So the father divided the property between them. 

After a few days, the younger son 

Collected all his belongings and he set off 

For a distant country where he squandered his inheritance. 

When he had freely spent everything, 

A severe famine struck that country 

And he found himself in dire need. 

So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens 

Who sent him to his farm to tend to the swine. 

As he longed to eat his fill of the pods 

On which the swine fed, nobody gave him any. 

Coming to his senses, he thought, 

How many of my father’s hired workers have more 

Than enough to eat, but here I am dying from hunger.” 

I shall get up, go to my father, and say to him, 

“Father, I have sinned against Heaven and against you. 

I no longer deserve to be called your son. 

Treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers.” 

So he got up and he went back to his father. 

While he was still a long way off, 

His father caught sight of him 

And was filled with compassion. 

He ran to his son and embraced him and kissed him. 

His son said to him, 

“Father, I have sinned against Heaven and against you. 

I no longer deserve to be called your son.” 

But his father ordered his servants, 

“Quickly bring the finest robe, put it on him. 

Put a ring on his finger, sandals on his feet. 

Then take the fattened calf, slaughter it. 

Then let us celebrate with a feast, 

Because this son of mine was dead and became to life again. 

He was lost, but now he is found.” 

Then the celebration began. 

Now the older son had been out in the field 

And on his way back as he neared the house, 

He heard the sound of music and dancing. 

He called one of the servants and asked what this might mean. 

And the servant said to him, “your brother has returned. 

Your father has slaughtered the fattened calf 

Because he has him back safe and sound.” 

He became angry. 

And when he refused to enter the house, 

His father came out and pleaded with him. 

He said to his father in reply, “look, all these years 

I served you, and not once did I disobey your order. 

Yet you never gave me even a young goat 

To feast on with my friends. 

But when your son returns, who swallowed up 

Your property with prostitutes, 

You slaughter the fattened calf.” 

He said to him, “my son, you are here with me always. 

Everything I have is yours. 

But now we must celebrate and rejoice. 

Your brother was dead and has come to life again. 

He was lost, but now he is found.” 

The gospel of the Lord. 

-Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. 

 

A cell phone, Facebook, email, text message, a letter. What do all of these things have in common? They’re all ways today that people send messages to each other. They’re all ways of communication. 

 

However, still the best way to send a message or communicate is in person, and that is face to face. And this is why God decided to send a message of love to the world. God sent Jesus, and then Jesus sends us. He sends out his disciples. And that’s our task today. 

 

Friends, we’re reminded in the gospel story we just heard about one important aspect of being a disciple of Jesus. And to represent Jesus in the world, to be a faithful disciple of his, is to be dedicated to the hard work, the hard work of forgiveness and reconciliation. And in many ways, this is at the cutting edge of the message of Christ. That’s what we hear in the gospel today. 

 

And so this story presents us with the ultimate example of forgiveness. Reconciliation occurs between the father and the son, but sadly it is withheld by the older brother. 

 

I’ll share with you this cute little story about one of my visits to school to talk with some of the children about this particular gospel story. And at the time when I was talking about it, I asked the kids, these were first graders that I’m talking to. 

 

I asked the children the question, “Who was the most sad or sorry to see the prodigal son come home?” And then all these little hands go up and one little boy just blurts out, “the fatted calf.” Interesting point of view from the kids. It’s not the answer I expected. Of course, we know it was the older brother. When he sees how warmly and forgiving his father is welcoming his younger brother. Instead of feeling happy and rejoicing, he’s angry and he refuses to join in the welcome home celebration. 

 

What I want us to think about today is this: forgiveness is about being a home for someone who is wanting to return. And that’s what the father did. He was home for his returning son. And now the father also has to find a way to be home again to that son who never left but was angry and he put himself outside the home. Jesus shows us that forgiveness is not easy to do. We know that. But it is part of a circle of mercy. And we cannot fully experience God’s mercy and forgiveness unless we are willing to forgive. That’s a tall and difficult order at times. 

 

In our mass, in our celebration today, may we find the grace and strength to be a part of God’s circle of mercy. Not a vicious circle, but a gracious circle of mercy. That’s one of the most important aspects of being a disciple of Jesus. 

 

As a disciple of Jesus, let us profess now 

In the apostles’ creed: I believe in God, 

The father almighty, creator of Heaven and Earth. 

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only son, our Lord. 

He was conceived by the holy spirit 

And born of the Virgin Mary. 

He suffered under Pontius Pilate, 

Was crucified, died and was buried. 

He descended to the dead. 

On the third day he rose again. 

He ascended into Heaven 

And is seated at the right hand of the father. 

He will come again to judge the living and the dead. 

I believe in the holy spirit, the holy catholic church, 

The communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, 

The resurrection of the body and life everlasting. 

Amen. 

As a people gathered in faith, hope and love, 

Let us bring our needs to the Lord. 

Our response to each prayer will be, “Lord, hear our prayer.” 

For the church, 

May she be a light and a beacon of hope for all people. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

For those who suffer, 

May God bless them with courage during difficult times. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

For the children of Mercy Home, 

May they feel Christ’s love as they heal. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

For our deceased loved ones, 

May they rest in God’s eternal kingdom. 

We pray to the Lord. 

-Lord, hear our prayer. 

And loving God, hear our prayer spoken out loud 

And those we hold in our hearts as we desire to be a part 

Of your circle of mercy as we follow Christ our Lord. 

Amen. 

∫ [Music] ∫ 

Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation. 

Through your goodness we have bread to offer, 

Which Earth is given human hands have made. 

May it become for us the bread of life. 

Blessed be God forever. 

Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation. 

Through your goodness we have wine to offer. 

Fruit of the vine, work of human hands 

May it become our spiritual drink. 

Blessed be God forever. 

Lord wash away my iniquities and cleanse me of all sin. 

Pray with me in faith that these gifts of bread and wine 

Offered today be acceptable to our almighty and loving God. 

-May the Lord accept the sacrifice at our hands 

For the praise and glory of God’s name, 

For our good and the good of all God’s holy church. 

We place before you with joy these offerings, 

Which bring eternal remedy, O Lord, 

Praying that we may both faithfully revere them 

And present them to you as is fitting for the salvation of all the world. 

Through Christ our Lord. 

-Amen. 

The Lord be with you. 

-And with your spirit. 

Lift up your hearts. 

-We lift them up to the Lord. 

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. 

-It is right and just. 

It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, 

Always and everywhere to give you thanks 

Lord, holy father, almighty eternal God, 

Through Christ our Lord. 

By the mystery of the incarnation, 

He has led the human race that walked in darkness 

Into the radiance of the faith 

And has brought those born in slavery to ancient sin 

Through the waters of regeneration 

To make them your adopted children. 

Therefore all creatures of Heaven and Earth 

Sing a new song and adoration as we with all 

The host of angels cry out and without end acclaim. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of hosts, ∫ 

∫ Heaven and Earth are full of your glory. ∫ 

∫ Hosanna in the highest. ∫ 

∫ Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. ∫ 

∫ Hosanna in the highest. ∫ 

You are holy indeed. 

The font of all holiness, O Lord. 

Make holy therefore these gifts we pray now 

By sending down your spirit upon them like the dewfall 

So that they may become for us 

The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

At the time he was betrayed and entered willingly into his passion, 

He took bread and giving thanks broke it. 

He gave it to the disciples saying, 

“Take this, all of you, eat of it. 

This is my body which will be given up for you.” 

In a similar way when the supper ended, he took the chalice. 

Once more giving thanks, he gave it to the disciples saying, 

“Take this, all of you, drink from it. 

For this is the chalice of my blood, 

The blood of the new eternal covenant. 

It will be poured out for you and for many 

For the forgiveness of sin. 

Do this in memory of me.” 

The mystery of our faith. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ When we eat this bread and drink this cup, ∫ 

∫ We proclaim your death, O Lord, ∫ 

∫ Until you come again. ∫ 

Therefore as we celebrate this memorial 

Of his death and resurrection, we offer you, Lord, 

The bread of life, the chalice of salvation, 

Giving thanks, that you have held us worthy 

To be in your presence and minister to you. 

Humbly, we pray that partaking of the body 

And blood of Christ, 

We may be gathered into one by the holy spirit. 

Remember, Lord, your church spread throughout the world 

And bring her to the fullness of charity 

Together with Francis, our pope, 

Blase, our archbishop, 

And all who minister in your church everywhere. 

We pray for all our brothers and sisters 

Who have fallen asleep in the hope of the resurrection 

And all who have died in your mercy. 

Welcome them into the light of your face. 

Have mercy on us all, we pray, 

That with the blessed Virgin Mary, mother of God, 

With Joseph, her spouse, 

With the blessed apostles, and all the saints 

Who have pleased you throughout the ages, 

We may merit to be co-heirs 

To eternal life and there praise and glorify you 

Through your son, Jesus Christ. 

Through him, with him, and in him, 

O God, almighty father, in the unity of the holy spirit, 

All glory and honor are yours forever and ever. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Amen, amen, amen. ∫ 

We pray now as Jesus taught: 

Our father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name, 

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done 

On Earth as it is in Heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread 

And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those 

Who trespass against us 

And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. 

Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, 

Graciously grant peace in our days, 

That by the help of your mercy we may be always 

Free from sin and safe from all distress 

As we await the blessed hope 

And the coming of our savior, Jesus Christ. 

For the kingdom, the power, 

And the glory are yours now and forever. 

Lord Jesus Christ, you said to your friends, 

“I leave you peace, my peace I give you.” 

Look not on our sins but on the faith of your church 

And graciously grant her peace and unity 

In accordance with your will who live and reigns 

Forever and ever. 

Amen. 

The peace of the Lord be with you always. 

-And with your spirit. 

Let us offer each other some gesture of peace. 

Friends, from all of us here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, 

To all of you folks at home, 

We extend the peace of Christ. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. ∫ 

∫ Have mercy on us. ∫ 

∫ Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. ∫ 

∫ Have mercy on us. ∫ 

∫ Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. ∫ 

∫ Grant us peace. ∫ 

Friends we behold Jesus, 

Who calls us to be part of his circle of mercy. 

Strengthened are we sharing now in the supper of the lamb. 

Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, 

But only say the word and my soul shall be healed. 

May the body of Christ, may the blood of Christ 

Keep us safe forever lasting life. 

-Amen. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

For those of you at home, please turn to page six 

In your tv mass guide and join in singing 

Our communion song, “merciful God.” 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God. ∫ 

∫ Light, when the shadows of life cloud our view, ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God, ∫ 

∫ People who hunger for you. ∫ 

∫ Surely you alone can save us. ∫ 

∫ You pay our price with precious blood. ∫ 

∫ Reaching through your great compassion, ∫ 

∫ You lift up your people with love. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God. ∫ 

∫ Light when the shadows of life cloud our view. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God, ∫ 

∫ People who hunger for you. ∫ 

∫ Surely you alone redeem us. ∫ 

∫ You fill our dust with holy breath. ∫ 

∫ Bursting from the grave to glory, ∫ 

∫ You rise from the ashes of death. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God. ∫ 

∫ Light when the shadows of life cloud our view. ∫ 

∫ Feed us and guide us, merciful God, ∫ 

∫ People who hunger for you. ∫ 

I invite you to join me now 

In the prayer for the children of Mercy Home: 

Our lady of mercy, we pray that you will guide, 

Protect, and bless all boys and girls 

Who this day have a home called mercy. 

May they find the father’s mercy as we offer them 

Our hearts in the name of your son, Jesus Christ. 

May they see God’s mercy in action 

Through our love, prayers, and sacrifices. 

The Lord be with you. 

-And with your spirit. 

Let us bow our heads and ask God’s blessing. 

O God, who enlighten everyone who comes into this world. 

Illuminate our hearts, we pray, 

With the splendor of your grace that we may always ponder 

What is worthy and pleasing to your majesty 

And love you in all sincerity through Christ our Lord. 

Amen. 

And Lord, look upon those who call to you 

And sustain the week. 

Give life by your unfailing light to those 

Who walk in the shadow of death 

And bring those rescued by your mercy from every evil 

To reach the highest good through Christ our Lord. 

-Amen. 

We go forward now with confidence 

As we ask God to bless us: 

The father, the son, and the holy spirit. 

-Amen. 

We go in peace to love and serve God 

By our continued care for each other. 

-Thanks be to God. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

∫ God’s blessing sends us forth, ∫ 

∫ Strengthened for our task on Earth, ∫ 

∫ Refreshed in soul ∫ 

∫ And renewed in mind. ∫ 

∫ May God with us remain through us the spirit reign ∫ 

∫ That Christ be known to humankind. ∫ 

My friends, I just want to thank you for the ways 

In which you support the tv mass 

Here at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. 

Let us continue to pray for one another. 

Please consider making an offering 

So that we can keep the tv mass on the air. 

May God bless you, your family members, and your friends. 

The music for the broadcast of Sunday Mass at Mercy Home 

Is generously provided by G-I-A Publications Incorporated 

And its World Library Publications Division. 

∫ [Piano music] ∫ 

A cell phone, Facebook, email, text message, a letter. What do all of these things have in common? They’re all ways today that people send messages to each other. They’re all ways of communication. 

However, still the best way to send a message or communicate is in person, and that is face to face. And this is why God decided to send a message of love to the world. God sent Jesus, and then Jesus sends us. He sends out his disciples. And that’s our task today. 

Friends, we’re reminded in the gospel story we just heard about one important aspect of being a disciple of Jesus. And to represent Jesus in the world, to be a faithful disciple of his, is to be dedicated to the hard work, the hard work of forgiveness and reconciliation. And in many ways, this is at the cutting edge of the message of Christ. That’s what we hear in the gospel today. 

And so this story presents us with the ultimate example of forgiveness. Reconciliation occurs between the father and the son, but sadly it is withheld by the older brother. 

I’ll share with you this cute little story about one of my visits to school to talk with some of the children about this particular gospel story. And at the time when I was talking about it, I asked the kids, these were first graders that I’m talking to. 

I asked the children the question, “Who was the most sad or sorry to see the prodigal son come home?” And then all these little hands go up and one little boy just blurts out, “the fatted calf.” Interesting point of view from the kids. It’s not the answer I expected. Of course, we know it was the older brother. When he sees how warmly and forgiving his father is welcoming his younger brother. Instead of feeling happy and rejoicing, he’s angry and he refuses to join in the welcome home celebration. 

What I want us to think about today is this: forgiveness is about being a home for someone who is wanting to return. And that’s what the father did. He was home for his returning son. And now the father also has to find a way to be home again to that son who never left but was angry and he put himself outside the home. Jesus shows us that forgiveness is not easy to do. We know that. But it is part of a circle of mercy. And we cannot fully experience God’s mercy and forgiveness unless we are willing to forgive. That’s a tall and difficult order at times. 

In our mass, in our celebration today, may we find the grace and strength to be a part of God’s circle of mercy. Not a vicious circle, but a gracious circle of mercy. That’s one of the most important aspects of being a disciple of Jesus.