The purpose of this book is to provide prayerful, meaningful penitential services that can be celebrated in a faith community.  These ten scripture-based services are meant to deepen understanding of and desire for the journey of conversion.  They offer communities an experience of a loving and life-giving God. The leader of prayer may be either an ordained person or a layperson. 

Six services correspond to the A, B, and C Advent and Lenten cycles but are interchangeable within each particular season.  Four additional services are for particular times of renewal or recommitment.  Their themes are the work of the Spirit, the experience of being lost and being found, the forgiveness unique to married couples, and the reconciliation ministers are called to model.  All contain Scripture, homily and reflection suggestions, examinations of conscience, and music and environmental options. 

The services can be customized and reproduced for participant use Titles of the Advent services are The Coming of God’s Reign, Waiting in Joyful Hope, and Bringing God to Birth.  Titles of the Lenten services are Walking in the Light, Keeping the Covenant, and Becoming a New Creation.  Titles for the renewal services are Living in the Spirit, Being Lost, Being Found, Forgiving in Love, and Called to Reconciliation.