Antiphon (mantra) repeat quietly:
Remember that we are dust, and unto dust we shall return.

Psalm 51
Have mercy on me, O God, in your kindness;
in your great tenderness wipe away my faults.
Wash away my sin;
cleanse me of my guilt.

For I am well aware of my faults;
they are always before me.
Against you alone have I sinned;
I have done what is evil.
You are just when you pass sentence on me,
blameless when you give judgment.

You love those who search for truth.
In wisdom, center me,
for you know my frailty.
With fresh flowing water
wash me of my iniquities.

I have been brought low by my sin.
Wipe away my guilt
that I may hear the sounds of joy and gladness.
A clean heart create for me, O God.
Put a steadfast spirit within me.

Dismiss me not from your presence;
do not deprive me of your spirit.
Renew my joy;
a willing spirit sustain in me.
Then I shall witness to your ways
that sinners may return to you.

Free me from death,
and I will acclaim your goodness.
O God, open my lips,
and my mouth shall declare your praise.

If my heart is not sincere,
no sacrifice will be acceptable.
Your wish is for a contrite spirit.

In your kindness be bountiful to Zion.
Sacrifice will once again be pleasing to you.

Pray the Prayer of Jesus (Our Father)

Translation © 1998 Benedictine Sisters of Erie, Inc.