Holy Father, whose gaze is perfectly pure and righteous, instill in us the desire to reject our sins and turn toward you, that such a bond with you would bring about transformation and lead us into a new life, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. ‘John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.’ – Mark 1:4