Please read slowly and reflectively.

Slowly count to five at the end of each line.

A READING FROM PSALM 51 (FIRST READER ONLY)

Create in me a clean heart, O Gracious One,/

And put a new and right spirit within me./

Enfold me in the arms of love/

And fill me with your Holy Spirit./

Restore in me the joy of your saving grace,/

And encourage me with a new spirit./

Open my lips and my mouth shall sing your praise/

For you do not want sacrifice./

You delight in our friendship with you/

Most appropriate is a humble spirit/

A repentent and contrite heart/

Is the gift you most desire./