There have been comments in the Announcements in past years concerning the importance of the "Litany of Fervent Supplication" and the "Litany for the Catechumens" that follow the Gospel and preaching. Some of you, sadly, think of this particular section of the Divine Liturgy as the intermission or halftime bathroom break! (of course some, not all, young children need to go outside at this point, no one is arguing that). At this part of the Liturgy we pray for the sick, the travellers, those celebrating a special occasion, etc. by name. The word Fervent (meaning an ardent or extremely passionate enthusiasm) is used for this Litany, since that is to be the inner spiritual sentiment and feeling during the prayers for your brothers, sisters and those in need in any place. As a pastoral plea to you, I ask you NOT to turn this time into a mass exodus of ½ of the congregation, but to make a fervent and heartfelt plea to God to send His mercy on those for whom we are praying. Except for very young children, it seems inconceivable that so many people must really go outside during this important part of the Divine Liturgy. My, the lines at the mens and ladies rest rooms must be rather long! These Litanies are the common responsibility of the entire congregation. Listen to the opening words: "Let us ALL say with our WHOLE soul and with our WHOLE mind, let us say…Lord,, have mercy." That means ALL, not some… You’re missing out if you habitually leave and ignore this request to pray for others. –Fr. Lawrence