PRAYERS FOR VARIOUS OCCASIONS
PRAYERS FOR THE SUNDAY SERVICES
The prayers may be introduced with these or similar words.
Let us pray for the world and the Church.
or
Let us pray for all people and the Church throughout the world.
and/or
Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ has promised that you will hear us when we ask in faith: receive the prayers we offer.
The intercessions may close with a suitable collect or the Lord’s Prayer.
FORM A
In the power of the Spirit and in union with Christ, let us pray to the Father.
Hear our prayers, O Lord our God.
Hear us good Lord.
Guide and govern your holy Church, fill it with love and truth, and grant it the unity that is your will, binding it together with your Spirit.
Hear us, good Lord.
Give your Church boldness to preach the gospel in all the world, and to make disciples of all the nations.
Hear us, good Lord.
Enlighten the minds of all bishops, pastors, and ministers with true knowledge and understanding of your holy Word; that in their teaching and their lives they may declare it clearly and show its truth.
Hear us, good Lord.
Bless and keep all your people, that all may find and follow their true vocation and ministry.
Hear us, good Lord.
Give us a heart to love and reverence you, that we may diligently live according to your commandments.
Hear us, good Lord.
Give to all your people grace to meekly hear your Word, receive it with joy, and to bring forth the fruit of the Spirit.
Hear us, good Lord.
Bring into the way of truth all who have erred and are deceived.
Hear us, good Lord.
Strengthen those who stand, and comfort and encourage the faint-hearted, raise up those who fall; and finally beat down Satan under our feet.
Hear us, good Lord.
Give to all nations unity, peace, and concord; and give to everyone in your world dignity, food, and shelter.
Hear us, good Lord.
Bless and protect your servant, the President of the United States, and rule
his heart in your faith, reverence, and love; that above all things
he may have trust in you, and seek your honour and glory.
Hear us, good Lord.
Endue with grace, wisdom and understanding the members of the Cabinet, the Congress of the United States, the Supreme Court, the Governor of this State (
or Commonwealth), and all in authority.
Hear us, good Lord.
Bless and keep all judges and magistrates, giving them grace to administer justice with fairness and mercy and to maintain integrity and truth.
Hear us, good Lord.
Bless and defend all who strive for our safety and protection, and shield them in all dangers and adversities.
Hear us, good Lord.
Grant us abundant harvests of the earth and the sea; strength and skill to conserve the resources of our planet; and wisdom to use them well and for the benefit of all.
Hear us, good Lord.
Enlighten with your Spirit all places of education and learning.
Hear us, good Lord.
Protect all who travel by land, water, or air, all women in labor, all sick persons and young children.
Hear us, good Lord.
Help and comfort the bereaved, the aged, and the lonely, and show your pity on all prisoners, captives, and detainees.
Hear us, good Lord.
Defend and provide for the widowed and the fatherless, the refugees and homeless, and all who are desolate and oppressed.
Hear us, good Lord.
Heal those who are sick in body, mind or spirit; and give skill and compassion to all who care for them.
Hear us, good Lord.
Come to the help of all who are in danger, need or trouble.
Hear us, good Lord.
Have mercy on all people.
Hear us, good Lord.
Forgive our enemies, persecutors, and slanderers, and turn their hearts.
Hear us, good Lord.
Grant us true repentance; forgive our sins, negligences, and ignorances; and strengthen us by your Holy Spirit to amend our lives according to your holy Word.
Hear us, good Lord.
Here silence may be kept.
FORM B
When the following form is used, the minister may add the names of particular persons or needs to the petitions; he may add other similar petitions.
In the power of the Spirit and in union with Christ, let us pray to the Father.
For the peace of the whole world, for the welfare of the Holy Church of God, and for the unity of all, let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
For N our bishop, for the leaders of our sister Churches, and for all clergy and people, let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
For the spread of the gospel, for all laborers in the harvest, [for …,] and for own witness, let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
For N our President, for the leaders of the nations, and for all in authority, let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
For this community, for every city, town and village, and for all the people who live within them, let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
For good weather, and for abundant harvests for all to share, let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
For those who travel by land, air, or water, for the sick and the suffering, [for … ,] for prisoners and captives, and for their safety, health and salvation, let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
For our deliverance from all affliction, strife and need, and for the forgiveness of our sins and offences,
let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
Giving thanks for [… and] all who have gone before us in your faith and fear, we commend ourselves, and one another, and our whole life to you, Lord God.
Here silence may be kept.
FORM C
This form may be used either with the insertion of specific subjects at the points indicated or as a continuous whole.
Let us pray for the whole Church of God in Christ Jesus, and for all people according to their needs.
O God, the creator and preserver of all mankind, we pray for people of every race, in every kind of need: make your ways known on earth, your saving health among all nations [Especially we pray for …]
Father, Lord of heaven and earth
in your mercy, hear us.
We pray for your Church throughout the world: guide and govern us by your Holy Spirit, that all who profess and call themselves Christians may be led into the way of truth, and hold the faith in unity of spirit, in the bond of peace and in righteousness of life [Especially we pray for … ]
Father, Lord of heaven and earth
in your mercy, hear us.
We commend to your fatherly goodness all those who are in any way afflicted or distressed in body, mind or spirit; comfort and relieve them in their need, give them patience in their sufferings, and bring good out of all their troubles. [Especially we pray for …]
Father, Lord of heaven and earth
in your mercy, hear us.
We entrust to your gracious keeping all who died in the faith of Christ, and we give you thanks for all your faithful people who served you in their generation.
Father, Lord of heaven and earth
in your mercy, hear us.
Here silence may be kept.
FORM D
Particular intentions may be mention before this form, or petitions added at appropriate points.
Father, we pray for your holy catholic Church
that we all may be one in Christ.
Grant that every member of your Church may truly and humbly serve you:
that your name may be glorified by everyone.
We pray for all bishops, priests and deacons
that they may be faithful ministers of your word and sacraments.
We pray for all who govern and exercise authority in the nations of the world
that there may be justice and peace among all.
Have compassion on those who suffer or are in grief any grief or trouble
that they may be delivered from their distress.
We praise you for all your saints who have entered into eternal joy
may we also share in your heavenly kingdom.
Here silence may be kept.
FORM E
Particular intentions may be mention before the form but it is said without interpolation.
Let us pray for the universal Church of Christ and for all people according to their needs
Silence
Gracious God, grant us your peace
And salvation to all the world.
Strengthen your Church:
And increase it day by day.
Guide all Christians in the way of unit:
And grant that they may grow in your love.
Give your grace to all ministers of your Church, especially your servant ……, our ……:
And strengthen them in the ministry of your Word and Sacraments.
Bless, we pray, all those who work for the spread of your Gospel in the world:
And encourage the messengers of your saving love.
Direct the minds of those who are seeking Christ:
And make them strong in faith.
Guide the world in the way of peace:
And direct the leaders of the nations.
Bring all people into the path of justice and harmony:
And into obedience to your commands.
Direct all those in authority, especially
the President of the United States/the Prime Minister of Canada:
And give them the spirit of service.
May this
city/town and
province/state flourish:
For the welfare and blessing of the people.
Look with favor upon universities and schools:
That knowledge may be acquired for your glory and the benefit of humanity.
Heal the sick and afflicted:
And help those in trouble.
May those who are near death have the assurance of your presence:
That they may entrust themselves to your loving care.
Give strength to those who dedicate themselves to the healing of the sick:
And help them to minister to all who suffer pain.
May the wants of the needy be supplied and the hungry be fed.
And help us to relieve their suffering.
Grant us your grace that we may hear your Holy Word:
And help us both to receive and fulfill it.
We thank you for your servants who have died in faith:
And pray that we may follow their good example, and share with them in your eternal kingdom.
Here silence may be kept.
Form F
After each petition, silence may be kept. Further specific petitions may be added at appropriate points in the prayers or before the response.
We pray for the peace of the world, the leaders of the nations, and for all in authority.
God of mercy,
hear our prayer
We pray for the welfare of your holy Church, our Bishop N, and for all clergy and people.
God of mercy,
hear our prayer
[We pray for seasonable weather and for an abundance of the fruits of the earth.]
God of mercy,
hear our prayer
We pray that we may share with fairness and generosity the resources of the earth, and live in trust and goodwill with one another.
God of mercy,
hear our prayer
We pray for the aged and the infirm, for the bereaved and the lonely, and for the sick and the suffering.
God of mercy,
hear our prayer
We pray for the poor and the oppressed, for prisoners and captives, and for all who care for them.
God of mercy,
hear our prayer
We pray for ourselves and each other.
God of mercy,
hear our prayer
We praise you, Lord God, for the communion of saints and for the glorious hope of the resurrection to eternal life.
God of mercy,
hear our prayer
Here silence may be kept.
THE LITANY
The Litany is recommended for use on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, particularly in the seasons of Advent and Lent and on Rogation Days.
The Litany may be said or sung as a separate service; instead of the Prayers at Morning or Evening Prayer or before The Holy Communion.
When the Litany is used as a separate service, it may be preceded by a Psalm, canticle or hymn and one of the readings of the day.
God the Father, Creator of heaven and earth,
have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world,
have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit, Giver of life,
have mercy on us.
Holy, blessed, and glorious Trinity, three Persons and one God,
have mercy on us.
Remember not, Lord, our offences or the offences of our forebears; spare us, good Lord; spare your people, whom you have redeemed with your most precious blood.
Spare us, good Lord.
From all evil and harm; from sin; from the craft and assaults of the devil; from your wrath, and from everlasting damnation,
Good Lord, deliver us.
From all spiritual blindness; from pride, vainglory, and hypocrisy; from envy, hatred, and malice, and all uncharitableness,
Good Lord, deliver us.
From fornication, and all other deadly sin; and from all the deceits of the world, the flesh, and the devil,
Good Lord, deliver us.
From lightning and tempest; from earthquake, fire, and flood; from plague, pestilence, and famine; from war and murder, and from sudden death,
Good Lord, deliver us.
From all sedition, secret conspiracy, and rebellion; from all false doctrine, heresy, and schism; from hardness of heart, and contempt for your Word and Commandments,
Good Lord, deliver us.
By the mystery of your holy Incarnation; by your holy Birth; by your Circumcision and obedience to the Law; by your Baptism, Fasting, and Temptation,
Good Lord, deliver us.
By your Agony and bloody Sweat; by your Cross and Passion; by your precious Death and Burial; by your glorious Resurrection and Ascension; and by the coming of the Holy Spirit,
Good Lord, deliver us.
In times of trouble and in times of our prosperity; in the hour of death, and on the day of judgement,
Good Lord, deliver us.
Hear our prayers, O Lord our God.
Hear us good Lord.
Guide and govern your holy Church, fill it with love and truth, and grant it the unity that is your will, binding it together with your Spirit.
Hear us, good Lord.
Give your Church boldness to preach the gospel in all the world, and to make disciples of all the nations.
Hear us, good Lord.
Enlighten the minds of all bishops, pastors, and ministers with true knowledge and understanding of your holy Word; that in their teaching and their lives they may declare it clearly and show its truth.
Hear us, good Lord.
On the occasion of the consecration of a bishop or archbishop
[Bless
this our
brother elected to the office of
bishop (
or archbishop); and pour your grace upon
him that
he may fulfil
his ministry for the building up of your church and the glory of your holy name.
Hear us, good Lord. ]
In Ember seasons and at other times
[Bless your servants preparing to be deacons or priests; and pour your grace upon them that they may fulfill their ministry for the building up of your Church and the glory of your holy name.
Hear us, good Lord. ]
On the occasion of the ordination of a deacon or priest
[Bless your servant now to be ordained to the ministry of
deacon (
or priest); and pour your grace upon
him that
he may fulfil
his ministry for the building up of your Church and the glory of your holy name.
Hear us, good Lord. ]
On the occasion of the commissioning of a Catechist or Reader
[Bless your
servant now to be commissioned to the ministry of
Catechist (
or Reader); and pour your grace upon
him that
he may fulfil
his ministry for the building up of your church and the glory of your holy name.
Hear us, good Lord. ]
Bless and keep all your people that all may find and follow their true vocation and ministry.
Hear us, good Lord.
Give us a heart to love and reverence you, that we may diligently live according to your commandments.
Hear us, good Lord.
Give to all your people grace to hear and receive your Word, and to bring forth the fruit of the Spirit.
Hear us, good Lord.
Bring into the way of truth all who have erred and are deceived.
Hear us, good Lord.
Strengthen those who stand, and comfort and encourage the faint-hearted, raise up those who fall; and finally beat down Satan under our feet.
Hear us, good Lord.
Give to all nations unity, peace, and concord; and give to everyone in your world dignity, food, and shelter.
Hear us, good Lord.
Bless and protect your servant, the President of the United States, and rule
his heart in your faith, reverence, and love; that above all things
he may have trust in you, and seek your honour and glory.
Hear us, good Lord.
Endue with grace, wisdom and understanding the members of the Cabinet, the Congress of the United States, the Supreme Court, the Governor of this State (
or Commonwealth), and all in authority.
Hear us, good Lord.
Bless and keep all judges and magistrates, giving them grace to administer justice with fairness and mercy and to maintain integrity and truth.
Hear us, good Lord.
Bless and defend all who strive for our safety and protection, and shield them in all dangers and adversities.
Hear us, good Lord.
Grant us abundant harvests of the earth and the sea; strength and skill to conserve the resources of our planet; and wisdom to use them well and for the benefit of all.
Hear us, good Lord.
Enlighten with your Spirit all places of education and learning.
Hear us, good Lord.
Protect all who travel by land, water, or air, all women in labour, all sick persons and young children.
Hear us, good Lord.
Help and comfort the bereaved, the aged, and the lonely, and show your pity on all prisoners, captives, and detainees.
Hear us, good Lord.
Defend and provide for the widowed and the fatherless, the refugees and the homeless, and all who are desolate and oppressed.
Hear us, good Lord.
Heal those who are sick in body, mind or spirit; and give skill and compassion to all who care for them.
Hear us, good Lord.
Come to the help all who are in danger, need or trouble.
Hear us, good Lord.
Have mercy on all people.
Hear us, good Lord.
Forgive our enemies, persecutors, and slanderers, and turn their hearts.
Hear us, good Lord.
Grant us true repentance; forgive our sins, negligences, and ignorances; and strengthen us by your Holy Spirit to amend our lives according to your holy Word.
Hear us, good Lord.
If the service of Holy Communion follows, the Litany may end here.
Son of God, we implore you to hear us.
Son of God, we implore you to hear us.
Jesus, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world;
have mercy on us.
Jesus, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world;
grant us your peace.
Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us.
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. AMEN.
or
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. AMEN.
The minister may here use other authorized prayers; he may ask the prayers of the congregation for particular persons and needs; a period of open prayer may follow. The minister may read the Collect of the Day.
The following Supplication may be used after the Lord’s Prayer in the Litany, also on Rogation Days, at penitential seasons, and in times of trouble.
O Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.
Neither reward us according to our iniquities.
O God, merciful Father, you do not despise the sighing of a contrite heart nor the desires of the sorrowful: mercifully help us to pray in the midst of all our troubles and adversities, whenever they oppress us; and graciously hear us, that those evils, which the cunning and mischief of the devil or man work against us, should be brought to nothing; and by the providence of your goodness they may be dispersed; that we your servants, being hurt by no persecutions, may for ever give thanks to you in your holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
O Lord, arise, help us, and deliver us for your name's sake.
O God, we have heard with our ears, and our forebears have told us, the wonderful works you did in their day, and in the old time before them.
O Lord, arise, help, and deliver us for your honour.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son; and to the Holy Spirit;
As it was in the beginning, is now, and shall be for ever. AMEN.
From our enemies defend us, O Christ.
Graciously look upon our afflictions.
Gaze with compassion upon the sorrows of our hearts.
Mercifully forgive the sins of your people.
Favourably with mercy hear our prayers.
O Son of David, have mercy on us.
Both now and for ever condescend to hear us, O Christ.
Graciously hear us, O Christ; graciously hear us, O Lord Christ.
O Lord, show us your mercy.
As we put our trust in you.
We humbly entreat you, O Father, mercifully to look upon on our weaknesses; and for the glory of your Name turn from us all those evils that we have justly deserved; and grant that in our troubles we put our whole trust and confidence in your mercy, and for ever serve you in holiness and purity of life, to your honour and glory; through our only Mediator and Advocate, Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
The Litany ends with the Prayer of St Chrysostom and the Grace
A Prayer of St. Chrysostom
Almighty God, you have given us grace to bring before you with one accord our common supplications; and promise that when two or three are gathered together in your name you will grant their requests; fulfill now, Lord, the desires and petitions of your servants, as may be most expedient for them; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the world to come life everlasting.
AMEN
The Grace
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen. 2 Corinthians. 13. 14.
GENERAL CONFESSIONS
Almighty God, Creator of all, you marvelously made us in your own image; but we have corrupted ourselves and damaged your likeness by rejecting your love and hurting our neighbors. We have done wrong and neglected to do right. We are sincerely sorry and heartily repent of our sins. Cleanse us and forgive us by the sacrifice of your Son; Remake us and lead us by your Spirit, the Comforter. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.
Almighty, most merciful God, we humbly admit that we need your help. We have gone our own way, not loving you as we ought nor loving our neighbor as ourselves. We have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed and in our failure to do what is right. We deserve your condemnation. Father, have mercy upon us and forgive us. Wipe out our sins and teach us to forgive others. Bring forth in us the fruit of your Spirit that we may live new lives to your glory. This we ask in the name of Jesus our Savior. AMEN.
Heavenly Father, we confess that we have sinned against you and our neighbor. We have walked in darkness rather than in light; we have named the name of Christ, but have not departed from iniquity. Have mercy upon us, we implore you; for the sake of your Son Jesus Christ forgive us all our sins; cleanse us by your Holy Spirit; quicken our consciences; and enable us to forgive others; that we may hereafter serve you in newness of life, to the glory of your holy name. AMEN.
Most merciful Father, our Creator and Judge, we acknowledge and confess that we have sinned against you by thought, word, and deed. We have not loved you with our whole heart; and we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We earnestly repent, and are truly sorry of all our sins. For your Son our Lord Jesus Christ’ sake forgive us. And strengthen us to serve and obey you in lives wholly renewed by your Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.
OCCASIONAL PRAYERS
These prayers may be used, as occasion may serve, in Morning Prayer or Evening Prayer before the Prayer of St. Chrysostom; in the Alternative Forms of Morning and Evening Worship before or after the Lord’s Prayer; in the Litany before the Prayer of St. Chrysostom; and in The Holy Communion after the Collect of the Day or before the Blessing.
Prayers for the Sick are to be found on pages 202-207.
Before any of these prayers may be said, Let us pray for …,
or similar words.
THE WORLD
For Peace
Almighty God, from whom all thoughts of truth and peace proceed; Kindle in the hearts of all people the true love of peace, and guide with your pure and peaceable wisdom those who take counsel for the nations of the world; that in tranquility your kingdom may go forward until the earth is filled with the knowledge of your love; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
Almighty God, whose will is to restore all things in your beloved Son, king of all; Govern the hearts and minds of those in authority, and bring the families of the nations, divided and rent asunder by the ravages of sin, to be subject to his just and gentle rule; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.
AMEN.
For the Nations of the World
Almighty and everlasting God, we rejoice that you are the sovereign Lord that rules over all: may the nations of the world hear your voice and the peoples acknowledge you. Banish the darkness of sin and unbelief. Break down every barrier that stands in the way of the triumph of your Word and gospel and hasten the day when every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. We ask this in his name, and to his glory.
AMEN.
For North America
Almighty and merciful God, who in the days of our forebears gave to this land the blessing of your holy Church; Do not withdraw, we pray, your favor from us, but so correct what is wrong and supply what is lacking, that we may more and more bear fruit to your glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
PASTORAL
For Catechumens
O Lord Jesus Christ, Good Shepherd, you laid down your life for the sheep; mercifully receive
this brother into your fold. Join
him with your own flock, and lead
him to the pleasant pastures of everlasting life; for thy mercy’s sake.
AMEN.
For Candidates for Confirmation
Bless, we pray, heavenly Father, those soon to present themselves here, to make their profession of faith in your Son Jesus Christ, acknowledging him as their Savior and Lord before your people, and confirming for themselves the promises made on their behalf at their baptism. Grant that their profession of faith will be a true one. May they always be unswerving in their devotion to the One whom they now call Master, Teacher, and Friend. Keep them always obedient to your holy will and commandments, and faithful in the fellowship of your Church, and in the service of your Kingdom, to the glory of the great Head of the Church, our Lord Jesus Christ.
AMEN.
A Prayer in Time of Drought, Flood, or Wildfire
All things look to you, O Lord, to give them food in due season: look in mercy on your people, and hear our prayer for those whose lives and livelihood are threatened by drought (
or flood
or fire). In your mercy save both man and beast. Guide and bless the labors of your people, that we may enjoy the fruits of the earth and give you thanks with grateful hearts. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ.
AMEN.
In a Time of Disaster
Lord Jesus Christ, you once used the tragic death of the eighteen upon whom the tower of Siloam fell to warn us that those whom disaster strikes are not worse offenders than all others; and that unless we repent, we will all likewise perish. Let us take this warning to heart in the light of the recent
earthquake/flooding/hurricane/mud slides/tidal wave/tornado in …, and turn from our sins. Comfort and relieve those affected by that disaster. Help them to rebuild their shattered lives. May they also be put in mind of their need for repentance, and may they come to receive that forgiveness of sins that can only be theirs by faith in you. This we ask for your name’s sake.
AMEN.
Rain
God our heavenly Father through your Son you promised to those seeking first your kingdom and your righteousness all things necessary for their bodily welfare: send us, we pray, in this time of need, rain to water the earth, that we may receive its produce to strengthen and sustain us and always praise you for its bounty; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Children
Lord Jesus Christ, you embrace children with the arms of your mercy, and makes them living members of your Church: Give them grace, we pray, to stand fast in your faith, to obey your word, and to abide in your love; that, being strengthened by your Holy Spirit, they may resist temptation and overcome evil, and may rejoice in the life that now is, and dwell with you in the life that is to come; through your merits, merciful Savior, who with the Father and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and for ever.
AMEN.
For Christian Teachers
Almighty Father, you sent your only Son that all people might be saved: Enable those who teach so to consecrate their lives that, being themselves led by you, they may lead the children in their charge in the paths of everlasting life; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
AMEN.
For the Homeless
Have compassion, Lord, on all who are poor and homeless or who live in overcrowded conditions; give them strength and hope and keep them close to you. Help us to work and pray for the day when all your children are housed and healthy, and free to live full and happy lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who had nowhere to lay his head.
AMEN
For the Hungry
Lord, we lift up to you the hungry people of the world. May the love of Christ move the hearts of all who have much, to share with all who have nothing, for it is in sharing that we are blessed. And move us to give generously to those in need, not only of our money but also of the abundance of our stores, so that no child of God will suffer want, when there is so much around. Grant this our prayer, for your name’s sake.
AMEN.
For Prisoners
O God, you spare us when we deserve punishment, and in your wrath remember mercy: we humbly pray that you, of your goodness, will comfort and succor all prisoners. Give them a right understanding of themselves, and of your warnings and promises, that they may put their confidence in you, and in you alone. Relieve the distressed, protect the innocent, and awaken the guilty. And, as you alone can bring light out of darkness, and good out of evil, grant that your grace may impel the guilty to seek that only Redeemer who can free their souls from the chains of sin; and this we implore you for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For the Bereaved
Grant, O Lord, the spirit of faith and courage to those who are bereaved [and we pray especially for …] so that they may have strength to face the future with steadfastness and patience. May they not sorrow as those who have no hope; but may they be thankful for your great goodness to them in past years; and may they look forward with joy to the glory that you have prepared for those who love you; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Absent Ones
Lord our God, you are present in every place: mercifully hear our prayers for those we love and who are now away from us. Watch over them, we pray, and protect them from anxiety, danger, and temptation; teach us and them to know that you are always near, and we are one in you for ever; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Travelers
Lord, mercifully hear our prayers for [these] your servants about to embark on a journey (
or who are traveling); keep them in your loving care; be their guide and companion on the way; protect them from every danger; and bring them in safety to their journey’s end; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Those at Sea
Eternal Lord God, you alone spread out the heavens and rule the raging of the sea; we pray for all those who go down to the sea in ships and follow their trade in great waters. Grant them your strength and protection as they face the danger of their calling, and keep them in the hour of special need; for Jesus’ Christ sake.
AMEN.
Seafarers
Heavenly father, we commend to you all seafarers. Guard and protect them in danger and temptation; sustain them in loneliness; and support them in sickness and anxiety. Bless all who minister to them. Watch over those who are near and dear to them, and grant them the blessing of your presence. These things we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
SEASONAL
On New Year’s Day
Almighty God, you alone are changeless and unchanging, and have safely brought us, through the changes of time, to the beginning of another year: Forgive the sins that we have committed in the year that is past, and give us grace that we may spend the rest of our days to your honor and glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For use on Rogation Sunday, the Rogation Days, and other suitable occasions
Almighty God, whose will it is that the earth and the sea should be fruitful and yield whatever is needful for human life: Bless the labors of those who work on land and sea; and grant us an abundant harvest and the grace to always rejoice in your goodness, to the praise of your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
God of faithfulness, your generous love supplies us with the fruits of earth in their season. Give us grace to be thankful for your gifts, to use them wisely, and to share with others; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
THE CHURCH’S MINISTRY
For the Ministry of All Christian People
Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of the Church is governed and sanctified: Hear our prayer which we offer for all your faithful people, that in their vocation and ministry they may serve you in holiness and truth to the glory of your Name; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
AMEN.
In the Ember Weeks, to be said very day, for those that are to be admitted into Holy Orders
Almighty God, our heavenly Father, by the precious blood of your Son Jesus Christ you purchased for yourself a universal Church. Look upon your Church and at this time so guide and govern the minds of your servants the bishops and the pastors of your flock, they may not lay hands suddenly on any one, but faithfully and wisely make choice of fit persons to serve in the sacred ministry of your Church. To those who shall be ordained to any holy function give your grace and heavenly blessing; that both by their example and teaching they may declare your glory, and advance the salvation of all mankind; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
This prayer may be also used on the day on which Deacons or Priests are ordered.
Almighty God, giver of all good gifts, you have appointed various orders of ministry in your Church; give grace to those who are now called to the sacred ministry. So fill them with your truth and clothe them with holiness that they may faithfully minister to the glory of your name and to the benefit of your people. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For the Increase of the Ministry
Almighty God, look with compassion on the world you have redeemed by the death of your Son Jesus Christ. Move the hearts of many to offer themselves for the sacred ministry of your Church, so that by their lives and labours your light may shine in the darkness and the coming of your kingdom advanced; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
During a Vacancy of a See or a Parish
Lord God, you are our eternal shepherd and guide. In your mercy grant your Church in this
diocese/parish (
or the
diocese/parish of … ) a shepherd after your own heart who will walk in your ways and with loving care watch over your people, that your name may be glorified; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
Almighty God, the giver of all good gifts: Guide with your heavenly wisdom those who are to choose a pastor for this
diocese/parish (or for the
diocese/parish of …) that
we/they may receive one who will speak your word, and serve your people according to your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Catechists and Readers
Almighty and everliving God, you sent your only Son to die on the cross for us and through his death reconciled us to you. We give you heartfelt thanks for those whom you have called to serve you as licensed Catechists and Readers in this
diocese/parish/congregation and to be participants in the great commission in which your Son Jesus commanded us to go into all the world and to preach the good news to all creation so that whoever believes and is baptized will be saved. Look with favor upon them, and empower them with your Holy Spirit for the work of their ministry, that they may glorify you and build up your Church; through Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord.
AMEN.
THE CHURCH
For Unity
O God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our only Savior, the Prince of Peace: Give us grace seriously to lay to heart the great dangers we are in by our unhappy divisions; take away all hatred and prejudice, and whatever else may hinder us from godly union and concord; that, as there is but one Body and one Spirit, one hope of our calling, one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism, one God and Father of us all, so we may be all of one heart and of one soul, united in one holy bond of truth and peace, of faith and charity, and may with one mind and one mouth glorify you; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
Lord Jesus Christ, who said to your apostles, Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you: Regard not our sins, but the faith of your Church, and grant it that peace and unity that is agreeable to your will; who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.
AMEN.
A Prayer of Archbishop William Laud
Gracious Father, we humbly pray for your holy Catholic Church. Fill it with all truth, in all truth with all peace. Where it is corrupt, purify it; where it is in error, correct it; where in any thing it is amiss, reform it. Where it is right, strengthen it; where it is in want, provide for it; where it is divided, reunite it; for the sake of him who died and rose again, and ever lives to intercede for us, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord.
AMEN.
For the Renewal of the Church
God the Holy Spirit, come in power and bring new life to the Church; renew us in love and service, and enable us to be faithful to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
AMEN.
For the Church of This Land
Hear us, most merciful God, for that part of the Church which you planted in our land, that it may hold fast the faith which you gave to the saints, and in the end bear much fruit to eternal life; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
A Prayer for a Synod
Almighty and everliving God, give wisdom and understanding to the members of
the Synod of this Diocese/the General Synod of our Church. Teach
them/us in all things to seek first your honor and glory. May
they/we perceive what is right, have courage to pursue it, and grace to accomplish it, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Laborers in the Harvest
Heavenly Father, Lord of the Harvest, hear our prayers, and send out more laborers into your harvest. Equip and prepare them by your grace for the work of their ministry, and grant that both by their lives and labors they may make known your glory and help forward the salvation of all peoples; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For the Parish
Almighty and everlasting God, you govern all things in heaven and earth: mercifully hear our prayers, and grant to us in this parish and congregation all things that are needful to our common life; strengthen and confirm the faithful; visit and relieve the sick; bless and protect the children; turn and soften the wicked; arouse the careless; recover the fallen; restore the penitent; remove all hindrances to the advancement of your truth; and bring us all to be of one heart and mind within your holy Church, to the honor of your Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
O God, you have brought us into the Church of your Son Jesus Christ: make all in this parish family to be of one heart and mind in love towards you; and grant that our common life and work may advance the cause of the gospel to the glory of your Name and the salvation of mankind; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Missions
O God, you have made of one blood all the nations on earth, and you sent your blessed Son to preach peace to those who are far off and to those who are near: Grant that all people everywhere may seek after you and find you. Pour out your Spirit upon all flesh, bring the nations into your fold, and hasten the coming of your kingdom; through your Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN
Almighty God, who called your Church to witness that you were in Christ reconciling the world to yourself: Help us so to proclaim the good news of your love; that all who hear may be reconciled to you; through him who died for us and rose again and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
AMEN.
Almighty God, you give the gift of the Holy Spirit to all who believe in your Son Jesus Christ. Unleash in us the power of your Spirit that we may ever boldly testify to the truth of the Gospel in season and out of season, and by our example lead many to the saving knowledge of our Savior Jesus Christ.
AMEN.
Lord Jesus, you bid your disciples to “go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation…” Grant that we too shall be committed to this commission. Send us Lord wherever you choose, whenever you will, and we shall gladly go in your name and by the power of the Holy Spirit.
AMEN.
O God our Father, We pray that you will release the power of the Holy Spirit in all who believe, that we may become powerful witnesses of Jesus Christ our Lord who died and rose again and now reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, for ever and ever.
AMEN.
O God our Father, give us your passion for your Word and boldness in telling our neighbor about your grace, may the Holy Spirit convict the lost and draw them to the Savior, Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Church Planters
O God, you never fail to go with those you send: bless your
servants [especially N
or NN] whom you have chosen to plant a new church in … Pour out upon
them abundantly your Holy Spirit, and prosper mightily the new work that
they have undertaken. Give
them favor with those whom
they are seeking to reach, and grant that
they may bear much fruit to your glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Workers in Lonely Places
O Father Almighty and God of all comfort; look with compassion, we pray, upon the little companies of our faithful brothers and sisters who, in the lonely places of the world, are striving to uphold the banner of the Cross, If the comfort of human sympathy seems far from them, be their close companion, and pour into their hearts the spirit of hope; that they may steadfastly persevere, and, being encouraged by your word, know that their labor is not in vain; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Sinners
Have mercy, heavenly Father, on all who are hardened through the deceitfulness of sin; give them grace to come to themselves, the will and power to return to you, and the loving welcome of your forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
GENERAL AND CONCLUDING PRAYERS
A Morning Prayer
Almighty God, you have been our guard through the night, keep us in your care through the day; walking in the light, bearing witness to your way, seeking first your kingdom and seeing you in everyone; guide us in the footsteps of your Son, and lead us on the path to your everlasting Day: through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
A Prayer of Preparation
Almighty God, you bring to light things hidden in darkness, and know the shadows of our hearts; cleanse and renew us by your Holy Spirit, that we may walk in the light and glorify your name, through Jesus Christ our Lord, the Light of the world. AMEN.
For the Right Use of the Lord’s Day
Lord Jesus Christ, on this day you rose from the dead: teach us to reverence this your holy day and give us grace to so use it, that we may rise to newness of life, to your honor and glory, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.
AMEN.
For the Recollection of the Presence of God
Heavenly Father, in whom we live and move and have our being: We humbly pray that your Holy Spirit may so guide and govern us that in all the cares and occupations of our daily life, we may never forget your presence but remember that we are always walking in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Pardon
O God, whose nature and property is ever to have mercy and to forgive; Receive our humble prayers; and though we are tied and bound with the chains of our sins, yet let the compassionateness of your great mercy free us; for the honor of Jesus Christ, our Mediator and Advocate.
AMEN.
For Faithfulness
Remember, O Lord, what you have worked in us and not what we deserve; and as you have called us to your service, make us worthy of our calling; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Zeal in Service
God of unfailing power, you give vigor to the weary, fresh hope to the exhausted. We look to you for new strength, that we may soar as on eagles’ wings, run and not feel faint, march on and not grow weary. Keep us aglow with your Spirit, that with unflagging zeal we may serve the Lord.
AMEN.
For Protection
Almighty Lord, and everlasting God, we pray that you will direct, sanctify, and govern our hearts and bodies in the ways of your laws, and in the works of your commandments; that through your most mighty protection, here and ever, we may be kept in body and soul to give glory to your holy name; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
AMEN.
For Help
Be with us, Lord, in all our prayers, and direct our way toward the attainment of salvation, that among the changes and chances of this mortal life, we may always be defended by your gracious help; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
A Prayer after hearing Holy Scripture read
Almighty God, grant, we pray, that the words, which we have heard today, may through your grace be so grafted in our hearts, that they may produce in us the fruit of good works to the honour and praise of your name; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For Guidance
Go before us, Lord, in all our doings with your most gracious favour, and further us with your continual help; that in all our works begun, contin¬ued, and ended in you, we may glorify your holy name, and finally by your mercy attain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For the Holy Spirit
Eternal God and Father, by whose power we are created and by whose love we are redeemed; guide and strengthen us by your Spirit, that we may give ourselves to your service, and live this day in love to one another and to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
A Concluding Prayer
Almighty God, the fountain of all wisdom, you know our needs before we ask and our ignorance in asking; have compassion on our weaknesses, and give us those things which for our unworthiness we dare not, and for our blindness we cannot ask, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.
Heavenly Father, you have promised through your Son Jesus Christ, that when we meet in his name, and pray according to his mind, he will be among us and hear our prayer: in your love and mercy fulfill our desires, and give us your greatest gift, which is to know you, the only true God, and your Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
Almighty and eternal God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth: mercifully accept the prayers of your people and strengthen us to do your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
Almighty God, you have promised to hear the prayers of those who ask in your Son’s name; we pray that what we asked faithfully may be obtained effectually; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
THANKSGIVINGS
Before any of these thanksgivings the minister may say, Let us give thanks for …,
or similar words.
A General Thanksgiving
Almighty God, Father of all mercies, we your unworthy servants give you most humble and hearty thanks for all your goodness and loving kindness to us, and to all people. We bless you for our creation, preservation, and all the blessings of this life; but above all for your boundless love in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ, for the means of grace, and the hope of glory. Give us, we pray, such a sense of all your mercies that with truly thankful hearts we may show forth your praise, not only with our lips, but in our lives, by giving up ourselves to your service, and by walking before you in holiness and righteousness all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be all honor and glory, for ever and ever. AMEN.
Most merciful Father, we humbly thank you for all your gifts so freely bestowed on us. For life and health and safety, for power to work and leisure to rest, and for all that is beautiful in creation and in human lives, we praise and glorify your holy name. But above all, we thank you for your spiritual mercies in Christ Jesus our Lord, for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. Fill our hearts with all joy and peace in believing; through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.
For the Church
Almighty God, we praise you for the blessings brought to mankind through your Church. We bless you for the grace of the sacraments, for our fellowship in Christ with you and with each other, for the teaching of the Scriptures, and for the preaching of your word. We thank you for the holy example of your saints, for your faithful servants departed this life, and for the memory and example of all that has been true and good in their lives. Number us with them in the company of the redeemed in heaven; through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.
For the Increase of the Ministry
Almighty God, you look mercifully upon the world which you have redeemed by the blood of your dear Son; and you have, by your Holy Spirit, inclined the
hearts of your
servants to dedicate
themselves to the sacred ministry of your Church: we give you our humble thanks that you have graciously answered our prayers, through the merits of Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For God’s Word
Almighty God, we thank you for the gifts of your holy word. May it be a lantern to our feet, a light to our paths, and a strength to our lives. Take us and use us to love and serve all people in the power of the Holy Spirit and in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.
For Peace, and Deliverance from our Enemies
O almighty God, you are a strong tower of defense for your servants against every enemy; we offer you heartfelt praise and thanksgiving for our deliverance from those great and imminent dangers by which we were surrounded, and for the gracious gift of peace. We acknowledge that it is solely of your goodness that we were kept safe; and we beg you still to continue your mercies towards us, that we may always acknowledge you as our Savior and mighty Deliverer; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For the Harvest
Almighty and everlasting God, you have in your fatherly goodness and care given us the fruits of the earth in their seasons: we offer you our humble and heartfelt thanks for this your bounty, praying that you will give us grace to use it rightly to your glory, and the relief of those in need; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN
Almighty God and heavenly Father, we give you thanks and praise that you have fulfilled your gracious promise, that, while the earth remains, seed-time and harvest shall not fail. We bless you for the kindly fruits of the earth, which you have given for our use. Teach us, we pray, to remember that man does not live by bread alone; and grant that we may always feed on the true bread from heaven, Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom with you and the Holy Spirit, be all honor and glory, now and for ever.
AMEN.
Heavenly Father, in your wisdom you have seen fit at this time to withhold from us an abundant harvest of the fruits of the earth. Teach us never to forget that you give much more than we deserve; make us truly thankful for the many blessings that you have given; increase in us the virtues of faith, hope, and love; and enable us to humbly submit to your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
AMEN.
For the beauty of the earth
We thank you, God of all loveliness, for the beauty of earth and sky and sea; for the richness of the mountains, deserts and rivers; for the songs of birds and the beauty of flowers. We praise you for these good gift, and pray that we may guard our heritage, to the honor and glory of your name.
AMEN.
BLESSINGS
May the God of peace himself sanctify you wholly and may your spirit, soul, and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit be amongst you and remain with you always.
AMEN.
May the Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace, and the blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be amongst you and remain with you always.
AMEN.
May the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in you that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever, and the blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be amongst you and remain with you always.
AMEN.
The people accompany the first three responses with the sweep of the arm towards the cross behind the Holy Table, and their final response with a sweep toward heaven.
All our problems,
We send to the cross of Christ.
All our difficulties.
We send to the cross of Christ.
All the devil’s works,
We send to the cross of Christ.
All our hopes,
We set on the risen Christ.
May Christ the Sun of Righteousness shine upon you and scatter the darkness from before your path: and the blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be amongst you and remain with you always.
AMEN.
The love of the Lord Jesus draw you to himself, the power of the Lord Jesus strengthen you in his service, the joy of the Lord Jesus fill your hearts; and the blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be amongst you and remain with you always.
AMEN.
Go forth into the world in peace; be of good courage; hold fast that which is good; render to no one evil for evil; strengthen the fainthearted ; support the weak; help the afflicted; honor all people; love and serve the Lord, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit; and the blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be amongst you, and remain with you always.
AMEN.
The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord: And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be amongst you and remain with you always.
AMEN.
ENDINGS
One or more of these endings may be used instead of the Grace at the conclusion of the intercessions and thanksgivings at Morning and Evening Prayer, or when a sermon is preached at the end of Morning or Evening Prayer and the offerings of the people received and presented at the Lord’s Table, one or more of these endings may be may used at the conclusion of the service.
One or more of these endings may also be used instead of a Blessing or the Grace at the conclusion of the Alternative Forms of Morning and Evening Worship or The Holy Communion when there is no communion.
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us bless the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort our hearts and establish them in every good work and word.
And may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all evermore. AMEN. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17; 2 Corinthians 13:14
To God, who by the power at work within us, is able to do more abundantly than all we ask or think, to him be glory in the Church and in Christ Jesus to all generations for ever and ever.
AMEN. Ephesians 3:20
To the King of ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever.
AMEN. 1 Timothy 1:17
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
AMEN. Romans 15:13
May the God of peace equip you with everything good for doing his will, working in you what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.
AMEN. Hebrews 13:20-21
The Lord bless us and keep us: the Lord make his face to shine upon us and be gracious to us: the Lord lift up his countenance upon us and give us peace.
AMEN. Numbers 6:24-26
