The Common of Saints

Of the Holy Trinity

I Almighty God, who hast revealed to thy Church thine eternal Being of glorious majesty and perfect love as one God in Trinity of Persons: Give us grace to continue steadfast in the confession of this faith, and constant in our worship of thee, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; who livest and reignest, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, you have revealed to your Church your eternal Being of glorious majesty and perfect love as one God in Trinity of Persons: Give us grace to continue steadfast in the confession of this faith, and constant in our worship of you, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; for you live and reign, one God, now and for ever. Amen

Psalm 29                  Exodus 3:11-15
Romans 11:33-36      Matthew 28:18-20

Preface of Trinity Sunday
 



Of the Holy Spirit

I Almighty and most merciful God, grant, we beseech thee, that by the indwelling of thy Holy Spirit we may be enlightened and strengthened for thy service; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the same Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen.

II Almighty and most merciful God, grant that by the indwelling of your Holy Spirit we may be enlightened and strengthened for your service; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 139:1-17 or 139:1-9    Isaiah 61:1-3
1 Corinthians 12:4-14           Luke 11:9-13

Preface of Pentecost
 


Of the Holy Angels

I O everlasting God, who hast ordained and constituted the ministries of angels and men in a wonderful order: Mercifully grant that, as thy holy angels always serve and worship thee in heaven, so by thy appointment they may help and defend us on earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II Everlasting God, you have ordained and constituted in a wonderful order the ministries of angels and mortals: Mercifully grant that, as your holy angels always serve and worship you in heaven, so by your appointment they may help and defend us here on earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 148 or 103:19-22     Daniel 7:9-10a or 2 Kings 6:8-17
Revelation 5:11-14            John 1:47-51

Preface of Trinity Sunday
 


Of the Incarnation

I O God, who didst wonderfully create, and yet more wonderfully restore, the dignity of human nature: Grant that we may share the divine life of him who humbled himself to share our humanity, thy Son Jesus Christ; who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II O God, who wonderfully created, and yet more wonderfully restored, the dignity of human nature: Grant that we may share the divine life of him who humbled himself to share our humanity, your Son Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 111 or 132:11-19     Isaiah 11:1-10 or Genesis 17:1-8
1 John 4:1-11 or 1 Timothy 3:14-16
Luke 1:26-33(34-38) or Luke 11:27-28

Preface of the Epiphany
 



Of the Holy Eucharist

I God our Father, whose Son our Lord Jesus Christ in a wonderful Sacrament hath left unto us a memorial of his passion: Grant us so to venerate the sacred mysteries of his Body and Blood, that we may ever perceive within ourselves the fruit of his redemption; who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II God our Father, whose Son our Lord Jesus Christ in a wonderful Sacrament has left us a memorial of his passion: Grant us so to venerate the sacred mysteries of his Body and Blood, that we may ever perceive within ourselves the fruit of his redemption; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 34 or 116:10-17         Deuteronomy 8:2-3
Revelation 19:1-2a,4-9 or 1 Corinthians 10:1-4,16-17 or 1 Corinthians 11:23-29
John 6:47-58

Preface of the Epiphany
 


Of the Holy Cross

I Almighty God, whose beloved Son willingly endured the agony and shame of the cross for our redemption: Give us courage, we beseech thee, to take up our cross and follow him; who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, whose beloved Son willingly endured the agony and shame of the cross for our redemption: Give us courage to take up our cross and follow him; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 40:1-11  or 40:5-11       Isaiah 52:13-15; 53:10-12
1 Corinthians 1:18-24             John 12:23-33

Preface of Holy Week
 


For All Baptized Christians

I Grant, O Lord God, to all who have been baptized into the death and resurrection of thy Son Jesus Christ, that, as we have put away the old life of sin, so we may be renewed in the spirit of our minds, and live in righteousness and true holiness; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Grant, Lord God, to all who have been baptized into the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ, that, as we have put away the old life of sin, so we may be renewed in the spirit of our minds, and live in righteousness and true holiness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 16:5-11     Jeremiah 17:7-8 or Ezekiel 36:24-28
Romans 6:3-11    Mark 10:35-45

Preface of Baptism
 



For the Departed

I O eternal Lord God, who holdest all souls in life: Give, we beseech thee, to thy whole Church in paradise and on earth thy light and thy peace; and grant that we, following the good examples of those who have served thee here and are now at rest, may at the last enter with them into thine unending joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Eternal Lord God, you hold all souls in life: Give to your whole Church in paradise and on earth your light and your peace; and grant that we, following the good examples of those who have served you here and are now at rest, may at the last enter with them into your unending joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

or this

I Almighty God, we remember this day before thee thy faithful servant N.; and we pray that, having opened to him the gates of larger life, thou wilt receive him more and more into thy joyful service, that, with all who have faithfully served thee in the past, he may share in the eternal victory of Jesus Christ our Lord; who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, we remember before you today your faithful servant N.; and we pray that, having opened to him the gates of larger life, you will receive him more and more into your joyful service, that, with all who have faithfully served you in the past, he may share in the eternal victory of Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 116 or 103:13-22 or 130  
Isaiah 25:6-9 or Wisdom 3:1-9
1 Corinthians 15:50-58
John 5:24-27 or John 6:37-40 or John 11:21-27

Any of the Psalms and Lessons appointed at the Burial of the Deadmay be used instead.

Preface of the Commemoration of the Dead
 


Of the Reign of Christ

I Almighty and everlasting God, whose will it is to restore all things in thy well-beloved Son, the King of kings and Lord of lords: Mercifully grant that the peoples of the earth, divided and enslaved by sin, may be freed and brought together under his most gracious rule; who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty and everlasting God, whose will it is to restore all things in your well-beloved Son, the King of kings and Lord of lords: Mercifully grant that the peoples of the earth, divided and enslaved by sin, may be freed and brought together under his most gracious rule; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 93 or Canticle 18        Daniel 7:9-14
Colossians 1:11-20              John 18:33-37

Any of the Psalms and Lessons appointed in Proper 29 may be used instead.

Preface of the Ascension, or of Baptism
 


Baptism

I Almighty God, who by our baptism into the death and resurrection of thy Son Jesus Christ dost turn us from the old life of sin: Grant that we, being reborn to new life in him, may live in righteousness and holiness all our days; through the same thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, by our baptism into the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ, you turn us from the old life of sin: Grant that we, being reborn to new life in him, may live in righteousness and holiness all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 15 or 23or 27or 42:1-7 or 84 or Canticle 9       
Ezekiel 36:24-28[*]
Romans 6:3-5 or Romans 8:14-17 or 2 Corinthians 5:17-20
Mark 1:9-11 or Mark 10:13-16 or John 3:1-6

* Any of the other Old Testament Lessons for the Easter Vigil may be substituted.

Preface of Baptism
 


Confirmation

Grant, Almighty God, that we, who have been redeemed from the old life of sin by our baptism into the death and resurrection of thy Son Jesus Christ, may be renewed in thy Holy Spirit, and live in righteousness and true holiness; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the same Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Grant, Almighty God, that we, who have been redeemed from the old life of sin by our baptism into the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ, may be renewed in your Holy Spirit, and live in righteousness and true holiness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 1 or 139:1-9  
Isaiah 61:1-9 or Jeremiah 31:31-34 or Ezekiel 37:1-10
Romans 8:18-27 or Romans 12:1-8 or Galatians 5:16-25 or Ephesians 4:7,11-16
Matthew 5:1-12 or Matthew 16:24-27 or Luke 4:16-22 or John 14:15-21

Preface of Baptism, or of Pentecost
 



Anniversary of the Dedication of a Church

I O Almighty God, to whose glory we celebrate the dedication of this house of prayer: We give thee thanks for the fellowship of those who have worshiped in this place; and we pray that all who seek thee here may find thee, and be filled with thy joy and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, to whose glory we celebrate the dedication of this house of prayer: We give you thanks for the fellowship of those who have worshiped in this place, and we pray that all who seek you here may find you, and be filled with your joy and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 84 or 84:1-6 
1 Kings 8:22-30  or Genesis 28:10-17
1 Peter 2:1-5,9-10           Matthew 21:12-16

Preface of the Dedication of a Church
 


Church Convention

I Almighty and everlasting Father, who hast given the Holy Spirit to abide with us for ever: Bless, we beseech thee, with his grace and presence, the bishops and the other clergy and the laity here (or now, or soon to be) assembled in thy Name, that thy Church, being preserved in true faith and godly discipline, may fulfill all the mind of him who loved it and gave himself for it, thy Son Jesus Christ our Savior; who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the same Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty and everlasting Father, you have given the Holy Spirit to abide with us for ever: Bless, we pray, with his grace and presence, the bishops and the other clergy and the laity here (or now, or soon to be) assembled in your Name, that your Church, being preserved in true faith and godly discipline, may fulfill all the mind of him who loved it and gave himself for it, your Son Jesus Christ our Savior; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 19:7-14             Isaiah 55:1-13
2 Corinthians 4:1-10    John 15:1-11

Preface of Pentecost, or of the Season
 


For the Unity of the Church

I Almighty Father, whose blessed Son before his passion prayed for his disciples that they might be one, even as thou and he are one: Grant that thy Church, being bound together in love and obedience to thee, may be united in one body by the one Spirit, that the world may believe in him whom thou didst send, the same thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord; who
liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the same Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty Father, whose blessed Son before his passion prayed for his disciples that they might be one, as you and he are one: Grant that your Church, being bound together in love and obedience to you, may be united in one body by the one Spirit, that the world may believe in him whom you have sent, your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 122              Isaiah 35:1-10
Ephesians 4:1-6      John 17:6a,15-23

Preface of Baptism, or of Trinity Sunday
 


For the Ministry I:
For those to be ordained

I Almighty God, the giver of all good gifts, who of thy divine providence hast appointed various orders in thy Church: Give thy grace, we humbly beseech thee, to all who are [now] called to any office and ministry for thy people; and so fill them with the truth of thy doctrine and clothe them with holiness of life, that they may faithfully serve before thee, to the glory of thy great Name and for the benefit of thy holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, the giver of all good gifts, in your divine providence you have appointed various orders in your Church: Give your grace, we humbly pray, to all who are [now] called to any office and ministry for your people; and so fill them with the truth of your doctrine and clothe them with holiness of life, that they may faithfully serve before you, to the glory of your great Name and for the benefit of your holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 99  or 27:1-9            Numbers 11:16-17,24-29
1 Corinthians 3:5-11           John 4:31-38

Preface of Apostles
 


For the ministry II:
For the choice of fit persons for the ministry

I O God, who didst lead thy holy apostles to ordain ministers in every place: Grant that thy Church, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, may choose suitable persons for the ministry of Word and Sacrament, and may uphold them in their work for the extension of thy kingdom; through him who is the Shepherd and Bishop of our souls, Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the same Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II O God, you led your holy apostles to ordain ministers in every place: Grant that your Church, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, may choose suitable persons for the ministry of Word and Sacrament, and may uphold them in their work for the extension of your kingdom; through him who is the Shepherd and Bishop of our souls, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 63:1-8               1 Samuel 3:1-10
Ephesians 4:11-16        Matthew 9:35-38

Preface of the Season
 



For the ministry III:
For all Christians in their vocation

I Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of thy faithful people is governed and sanctified: Receive our supplications and prayers, which we offer before thee for all members of thy holy Church, that in their vocation and ministry they may truly and godly serve thee; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the same Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of your faithful people is governed and sanctified: Receive our supplications and prayers, which we offer before you for all members of your holy Church, that in their vocation and ministry they may truly and devoutly serve you; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 15                 Exodus 19:3-8
1 Peter 4:7-11         Matthew 16:24-27

Preface of Baptism, or of the Season
 


For the Mission of the Church

I O God, who hast made of one blood all the peoples of the earth, and didst send thy blessed Son to preach peace to those who are far off and to those who are near: Grant that people everywhere may seek after thee and find thee, bring the nations into thy fold, pour out thy Spirit upon all flesh, and hasten the coming of thy kingdom; through the same thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the same Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II O God, you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth, and sent your blessed Son to preach peace to those who are far off and to those who are near: Grant that people everywhere may seek after you and find you, bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit upon all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 96 or 96:1-7            Isaiah 2:2-4
Ephesians 2:13-22             Luke 10:1-9

or this

I O God of all the nations of the earth: Remember the multitudes who have been created in thine image but have not known the redeeming work of our Savior Jesus Christ; and grant that, by the prayers and labors of thy holy Church, they may be brought to know and worship thee as thou hast been revealed in thy Son; who liveth and reigneth with thee
and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II O God of all the nations of the earth: Remember the multitudes who have been created in your image but have not known the redeeming work of our Savior Jesus Christ; and grant that, by the prayers and labors of your holy Church, they may be brought to know and worship you as you have been revealed in your Son; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 67                    Isaiah 49:5-13
Ephesians 3:1-12         Matthew 28:16-20

Preface of the Season, or of Pentecost
 



For the Nation

I Lord God Almighty, who hast made all peoples of the earth for thy glory, to serve thee in freedom and peace: Grant to the people of our country a zeal for justice and the strength of forbearance, that we may use our liberty in accordance with thy gracious will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II Lord God Almighty, you have made all the peoples of the earth for your glory, to serve you in freedom and in peace: Give to the people of our country a zeal for justice and the strength of forbearance, that we may use our liberty in accordance with your gracious will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 47                 Isaiah 26:1-8
Romans 13:1-10       Mark 12:13-17

The Collect, Psalm and any of the Lessons appointed for Independence Day may be used instead.

Preface of Trinity Sunday
 


For Peace

I O Almighty God, kindle, we beseech thee, in every heart the true love of peace, and guide with thy wisdom those who take counsel for the nations of the earth, that in tranquillity thy dominion may increase till the earth is filled with the knowledge of thy love; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, kindle, we pray, in every heart the true love of peace, and guide with your wisdom those who take counsel for the nations of the earth, that in tranquillity your dominion may increase until the earth is filled with the knowledge of your love; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 85:7-13                Micah 4:1-5
Ephesians 2:13-18 or Colossians 3:12-15
John 16:23-33 or Matthew 5:43-48

Preface of the Season
 


For fruitful seasons

I Almighty God, Lord of heaven and earth: We humbly pray that thy gracious providence may give and preserve to our use the harvests of the land and of the seas, and may prosper all who labor to gather them, that we, who constantly receive good things from thy hand, may always give thee thanks; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, Lord of heaven and earth: We humbly pray that your gracious providence may give and preserve to our use the harvests of the land and of the seas, and may prosper all who labor to gather them, that we, who are constantly receiving good things from your hand, may always give you thanks; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 147 or 147:1-13 
Deuteronomy 11:10-15 or Ezekiel 47:6-12 or Jeremiah 14:1-9
Romans 8:18-25         Mark 4:26-32

Preface of the Season
 


For commerce and industry

I Almighty God, whose Son Jesus Christ in his earthly life shared our toil and hallowed our labor: Be present with thy people where they work; make those who carry on the industries and commerce of this land responsive to thy will; and give to us all a pride in what we do, and a just return for our labor; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, whose Son Jesus Christ in his earthly life shared our toil and hallowed our labor: Be present with your people where they work; make those who carry on the industries and commerce of this land responsive to your will; and give to us all a pride in what we do, and a just return for our labor; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 107:1-9                  Ecclesiasticus 38:27-32
1 Corinthians 3:10-14        Matthew 6:19-24

Preface of the Season
 


For stewardship of creation

I O merciful Creator, whose hand is open wide to satisfy the needs of every living creature: Make us, we beseech thee, ever thankful for thy loving providence; and grant that we, remembering the account that we must one day give, may be faithful stewards of thy bounty; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with thee and the Holy Spirit liveth and reigneth, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II O merciful Creator, your hand is open wide to satisfy the needs of every living creature: Make us always thankful for your loving providence; and grant that we, remembering the account that we must one day give, may be faithful stewards of your good gifts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever
and ever. Amen.

Psalm 104:25-37 or 104:1,13-15,25-32        Job 38:1-11,16-18
1 Timothy 6:7-10,17-19                             Luke 12:13-21

Preface of the Season
 


For the Sick

I Heavenly Father, giver of life and health: Comfort and relieve thy sick servants, and give thy power of healing to those who minister to their needs, that those (or N., or NN.) for whom our prayers are offered may be strengthened in their weakness and have confidence in thy loving care; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Heavenly Father, giver of life and health: Comfort and relieve your sick servants, and give your power of healing to those who minister to their needs, that those (or N., or NN.) for whom our prayers are offered may be strengthened in their weakness and have confidence in your loving care; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

Psalm 13 or 86:1-7             2 Kings 20:1-5
James 5:13-16                   Mark 2:1-12

Any of the Psalms and Lessons appointed at the Ministration to the Sick may be used instead.

Preface of the Season
 


For Social Justice

I Almighty God, who hast created us in thine own image: Grant us grace fearlessly to contend against evil and to make no peace with oppression; and, that we may reverently use our freedom, help us to employ it in the maintenance of justice in our communities and among the nations, to the glory of thy holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, who created us in your own image: Grant us grace fearlessly to contend against evil and to make no peace with oppression; and, that we may reverently use our freedom, help us to employ it in the maintenance of justice in our communities and among the nations, to the glory of your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 72 or 72:1-4,12-14          Isaiah 42:1-7
James 2:5-9,12-17                   Matthew 10:32-42

Preface of the Season
 


For Social Service

I O Lord our heavenly Father, whose blessed Son came not to be ministered unto but to minister: Bless, we beseech thee, all who, following in his steps, give themselves to the service of others; that with wisdom, patience, and courage, they may minister in his name to the suffering, the friendless, and the needy; for the love of him who laid down his life for us, the same thy Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II Heavenly Father, whose blessed Son came not to be served but to serve: Bless all who, following in his steps, give themselves to the service of others; that with wisdom, patience, and courage, they may minister in his Name to the suffering, the friendless, and the needy for the love of him who laid down his life for us, your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 146 or 22:22-27          Zechariah 8:3-12,16-17
1 Peter 4:7-11                     Mark 10:42-52

Preface of the Season
 


For Education

I Almighty God, the fountain of all wisdom: Enlighten by thy Holy Spirit those who teach and those who learn, that, rejoicing in the knowledge of thy truth, they may worship thee and serve thee from generation to generation; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the same Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, the fountain of all wisdom: Enlighten by your Holy Spirit those who teach and those who learn, that, rejoicing in the knowledge of your truth, they may worship you and serve you from generation to generation; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 78:1-7                  Deuteronomy 6:4-9,20-25
2 Timothy 3:14—4:5        Matthew 11:25-30

Preface of the Season
 



For Vocation in Daily Work

I Almighty God our heavenly Father, who declarest thy glory and showest forth thy handiwork in the heavens and in the earth: Deliver us, we beseech thee, in our several occupations from the service of self alone, that we may do the work which thou givest us to do, in truth and beauty and for the common good; for the sake of him who came among us as one that serveth, thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II Almighty God our heavenly Father, you declare your glory and show forth your handiwork in the heavens and in the earth: Deliver us in our various occupations from the service of self alone, that we may do the work you give us to do in truth and beauty and for the common good; for the sake of him who came among us as one who serves, your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 8                       Ecclesiastes 3:1,9-13
1 Peter 2:11-17            Matthew 6:19-24

Preface of the Season
 


For Labor Day

I Almighty God, who hast so linked our lives one with another that all we do affects, for good or ill, all other lives: So guide us in the work we do, that we may do it not for self alone, but for the common good; and, as we seek a proper return for our own labor, make us mindful of the rightful aspirations of other workers, and arouse our concern for those who are out of work; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, you have so linked our lives one with another that all we do affects, for good or ill, all other lives: So guide us in the work we do, that we may do it not for self alone, but for the common good; and, as we seek a proper return for our own labor, make us mindful of the rightful aspirations of other workers, and arouse our concern for those who are out of work; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 107:1-9 or 90:1-2,16-17         Ecclesiasticus 38:27-32
1 Corinthians 3:10-14                     Matthew 6:19-24

Preface of the Season

 


For Artists & Writers

I Eternal God, light of the world and Creator of all that is good and lovely: We bless thy name for inspiring [N. and] all those who, with images and words, hath filled us with desire and love for thee; through Jesus Christ our Savior, who with thee and the Holy Spirit liveth and reigneth, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II Eternal God, light of the world and Creator of all that is good and lovely: We bless your name for inspiring [N. and] all those who with images and words have filled us with desire and love for you; through Jesus Christ our Savior, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 90:14-17         1 Chronicles 29:14b-19
2 Corinthians 3:1-3    John 21:15-17,24-25


Preface
I
Because in the beauty of holiness thou hast called us to worship thee; and hast given faithful artists and writers to illumine our prayer from age to age.

II Because in the beauty of holiness you call us to worship you, and you have given faithful artists and writers to illumine our prayer from age to age.
 


For Prophetic Witness in Society

I Almighty God, whose prophets hath taught us righteousness in the care of thy poor: By the guidance of thy Holy Spirit, grant that we may do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly in thy sight; through Jesus Christ, our Judge and Redeemer, who liveth and reigneth, with thee and the same Spirit ever one God. Amen.

II Almighty God, whose prophets taught us righteousness in the care of your poor: By the guidance of your Holy Spirit, grant that we may do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly in your sight; through Jesus Christ, our Judge and Redeemer, who lives and reigns with you and the same Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 2:1-2,10-12         Isaiah 55:11-56:1
Acts 14:14-17,21-23      Mark 4:21-29

Preface
I
Because in every age thou hast called brave souls to proclaim righteousness for the transformation of the world, that all may welcome the coming of thy holy reign.

II Because in every age you have called brave souls to proclaim righteousness for the transformation of the world, that all may welcome the coming of your holy reign.

 


For Prophetic Witness in the Church

I Gracious Father, we pray for thy 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, direct it; where in anything 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 Jesus Christ thy Son our Savior, who with thee and the Holy Spirit liveth and reigneth, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Gracious Father, we 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, direct it; where in anything 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 Jesus Christ your Son our Savior, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 12:1-7         Ezekiel 34:1-6,20-22
Acts 22:30-23:10    Matthew 21:12-16

Preface
I
For thou dost cleanse and renew thy Church by the witness of thy saints, calling people in every age to holiness of life through the indwelling of thy Holy Spirit.

II For you cleanse and renew your Church by the witness of your saints, calling people in every age to holiness of life through the indwelling of your Holy Spirit.

 


 

On the Anniversary of a Disaster

I God of steadfast love, who didst lead thy people through the wilderness: Be with us as we remember [and grieve]. By thy grace, lead us, we pray, in the path of new life, in the company of thy saints and angels; through Jesus Christ, the Savior and Redeemer of the world. Amen.

II God of steadfast love, who led your people through the wilderness: Be with us as we remember [and grieve]. By your grace, lead us in the path of new life, in the company of your saints and angels; through Jesus Christ, the Savior and Redeemer of the world. Amen.

Psalm 60:1-5 or 130 or 80:1-7 or 23
Job 14:7-13 or Jeremiah 31:15-20
Romans 8:35-38 or Revelation 21:1-7 or Romans 8:18-25
Luke 6:20-26 or Mark 13:14-27

Preface of God the Son
or Preface of the Commemoration of the Dead

 


 Reconciliation and Forgiveness

I God of compassion, thou hast reconciled us in Jesus Christ who is our peace: Enable us to live as Jesus lived, breaking down walls of hostility and healing enmity. Give us grace to make peace with those from whom we are divided, that, forgiven and forgiving, we may ever be one in Christ; who with thee and the Holy Spirit reigneth for ever, one holy and undivided Trinity. Amen.

II God of compassion, you have reconciled us in Jesus Christ who is our peace: Enable us to live as Jesus lived, breaking down walls of hostility and healing enmity. Give us grace to make peace with those from whom we are divided, that, forgiven and forgiving, we may ever be one in Christ; who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns for ever, one holy and undivided Trinity. Amen.

Psalm 51:1-17         Genesis 8:12-17,20-22
Hebrews 4:12-16      Luke 23:32-43

Preface
I Because by the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ thou hast reconciled all things to thyself, not counting our sins against us and renewing our hearts to forgive as we have been forgiven.

II Because by the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ you have reconciled all things to yourself, not counting our sins against us and renewing our hearts to forgive as we have been forgiven.


 

Rogation Days II: For Commerce and Industry

I Almighty God, whose Son Jesus Christ in his earthly life shared our toil and hallowed our labor: Be present with thy people where they work; make those who carry on the industries and commerce of this land responsive to thy will; and give to us all a pride in what we do, and a just return for our labor; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

II Almighty God, whose Son Jesus Christ in his earthly life shared our toil and hallowed our labor: Be present with your people where they work; make those who carry on the industries and commerce of this land responsive to your will; and give to us all a pride in what we do, and a just return for our labor; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 107:1-9                    Ecclesiasticus 38:27-32
1 Corinthians 3:10-14          Matthew 6:19-24

Preface of the Season



Goodness of God's Creation

I God of creation, we thank thee for all that thou hast made and called good: Grant that we may rightly serve and conserve the earth, and live at peace with all thy creatures; through Jesus Christ, the firstborn of all creation, in whom thou art reconciling the whole world unto thyself. Amen.

II God of creation, we thank you for all that you have made and called good: Grant that we may rightly serve and conserve the earth, and live at peace with all your creatures; through Jesus Christ, the firstborn of all creation, in whom you are reconciling the whole world to yourself. Amen.

Psalm 104: 24-31           Job 14:7-9
Romans 1:20-23            Mark 16:14-15

Preface
I Because in thy loving kindness, thou hast brought the whole creation into being and blessed its goodness.

II Instead of a Preface, Prayer D is recommended for use with this Proper.

 


Scientists and Environmentalists

I God of grace and glory, thou didst create and sustain the universe in majesty and beauty: We thank you for [N. and] all in whom thou hast planted the desire to know thy
creation and to explore thy work and wisdom. Lead us, like them, to understand better the wonder and mystery of creation; through Christ thine eternal Word, through whom
all things were made. Amen.

II God of grace and glory, you create and sustain the universe in majesty and beauty: We thank you for [N. and] all in whom you have planted the desire to know your creation and to explore your work and wisdom. Lead us, like them, to understand better the wonder and mystery of creation; through Christ your eternal Word, through whom all things were made. Amen.

Psalm 34:8-14                 Genesis 2:9-20
2 Corinthians 13:1-6        John 20:24-27

Preface
I Because thou dost inspire us to seek thy face in the wonders of thy creation, and revealest thy work, that thy people may rejoice in thy many gifts

II Because you inspire us to seek your face in the wonders of your creation, and you reveal your work, so that your people may rejoice in your many gifts.

 


Space Exploration

I Creator of the universe, whose dominion extends through the immensity of space: guide and guard those who seek to fathom its mysteries [especially N.N.]. Save us from arrogance lest we forget that our achievements are grounded in thee, and, by the grace of thy Holy Spirit, protect our travels beyond the reaches of earth, that we may glory ever more in the wonder of thy creation: through Jesus Christ, thy Word, by whom all things
came to be, who with thee and the Holy Spirit liveth and reigneth, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

II Creator of the universe, your dominion extends through the immensity of space: guide and guard those who seek to fathom its mysteries [especially N.N.]. Save us from arrogance lest we forget that our achievements are grounded in you, and, by the grace of your Holy Spirit, protect our travels beyond the reaches of earth, that we may glory ever more in the wonder of your creation: through Jesus Christ, your Word, by whom all things came to be, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 19:1-6                 Job 38:4-12,16-18
or Canticle 12
Revelation 1:7-8,12-16    John 15:5-9

Preface of God the Father or Preface of the Epiphany