Prayer For The First Week Of Lent

[This prayer is intended to be recited by the family in front of a Crucifix during the initial week of Lent.] Parent or child: From the writings of St. Paul [2 Cor. 6:1-2]. Beloved ones, we plead with you not to take God's grace lightly. For He proclaims: "At the right moment I have listened to you, and on the day of salvation I have aided you. Look, now is the right time; look, now is the day of salvation." Parent: This period of fasting has opened for us the gates of heaven. Let us embrace it with prayer and supplication. Family: That on the day of resurrection we may be exalted in the Lord. Parent: Let us pray. Through our observance of Lent, O Lord, You renew Your Church each year. Grant that Your children may lead more faithful lives and attain the graces they seek through penance. This we ask through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son. Family: Amen. Bless this home, Lord, with Your presence. Drive far away all the snares of the evil one. May Your holy angels dwell here, bringing us peace. And may Your blessing always rest upon us. This we ask through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son. Parent: Let us praise the Lord. Family: Thanks be to God. Parent: May the almighty and merciful Lord, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, bless and safeguard us. Family:Amen.