Consecration of Russia and Ukraine

Pope Francis has invited all Catholic dioceses throughout the world to join him in consecrating humanity, particularly Russia and Ukraine, to the Immaculate Heart of Mary on Friday, March 25th, the Solemnity of the Annunciation.

Join us via livestream on Facebook and Youtube as we pray together. We will begin at 12:00pm with a Penitential Liturgy of the Word, followed by the Act of Consecration around 12:30pm in union with Pope Francis in Rome.  You can access the livestream on this webpage below.  You can also join Pope Francis on EWTN by clicking here.

A number of church parishes throughout our diocese are also joining in praying this consecration Friday.  Check with your local church parish for more details about this day of prayer.

A Brief Explanation on a Penitential Liturgy of the Word

A Penitential Liturgy of the Word is, first of all, a celebration of God’s Word, similar to the first part of Mass.  It includes introductory rites, prayers said by the celebrant, Scripture readings, a homily or reflection, intercessory prayers and the Lord’s Prayer. 

In this case, it is concluded with the Act of Consecration, which provides the occasion for the liturgy.  What makes it penitential is the choice of prayers and Scripture readings.  They reflect acknowledgment of our sinfulness and implore God’s mercy. Penitential liturgies are appropriate in the situation of national tragedies or disasters. Such a liturgy imitates many Old Testament texts in which the Israelites engage in penitential liturgies, including prayer and fasting, when the nation faces disaster or tragedy.