Collective Worship From V-HAN The Year of Mercy

Respect those in need “Be merciful, just as your father is merciful” Luke 6:36

The Year of Mercy On December 8 th 2015, Pope Francis opened the original Holy Door at St Peter's Basilica in Rome, it was the first time it had been opened since the turn of the century, marking the official start of a year laden with symbolism for Catholics across the world.

What does it mean? This is a time for the Church and for Catholics everywhere to show mercy and compassion. Focussing on forgiveness, reconciliation and helping those in the margins of society. The Year of Mercy

Key points from Pope Francis. The crossing through the Holy Door is a sign of spiritual renewal. Pope Francis has long wished for the Church to be more forgiving of its flock. He has announced all parish priests would be allowed to absolve repentant women who asked for forgiveness for having an abortion, even though Church teaching still terms abortion a grave sin. The Pope has also made clear he wants this jubilee to open a year of "fervent dialogue" between Christians, Muslims and Jews, so that all who believe in a merciful God show more mercy towards one another. The jubilee is expected to draw millions of pilgrims to Rome. The Year of Mercy

Your Task Using a door in your form room, a window or using your imagination create your own Holy Door. The Year of Mercy On the strips of paper write a prayer for those in need or a way in which you can help the most vulnerable. Then display them around the Holy Door in the below way.

Prayer Heavenly father, I am your humble servant, I come before you today in need of hope. There are times when I fell helpless, There are times when I feel weak. I pray for hope. I need hope for a better future. I need hope for a better life. I need hope for love and kindness. In your name I pray, Amen The Year of Mercy