# A Prayer for the Year of Mercy
*2015-12-08*

> Bill Young introduces a new “Hour of Mercy” series and shares Pope Francis’ prayer for the Year of Mercy, asking the Church to be a visible sign of God’s forgiveness.

## Introducing the Hour of Mercy

Hi, this is Bill Young, and welcome to the Hour of Mercy. You may know me from Prayer & Lunch over the past seven years, but I’m launching a new show specifically for the Year of Mercy. The Hour of Mercy is the 3 o’clock hour, running from today until 16 November. In this series I’ll feature interviews, special prayers, and reflections on the Year of Mercy.

## Pope Francis’ Prayer for the Year of Mercy

Lord Jesus Christ, you have taught us to be merciful as the Heavenly Father, and you have said that whoever sees you sees God. Show us the faith, that we may be saved. You are the visible face of the invisible Father, the God who manifests His power through forgiveness and mercy. Let the Church be the visible faith in the world. Send your Spirit and consecrate each of us with its anointing, so that our mercy may be a grace from the Lord. May the Church, renewed in enthusiasm, bring good news to the poor, proclaim liberty to the captive and oppressed, and restore sight to the blind. Amen.
— Pope Francis

## Closing Blessing

God bless you all.

*May the Year of Mercy inspire us to become a living sign of God’s forgiveness in the world.*