Agnes’ Little Daily Prayer Book:

Sunday September the Twenty-seventh

ALMIGHTY God, who art the Strength of all who put their trust in Thee, grant unto us in the midst of the troubles of this mortal life, that, being confident in Thy wisdom and goodness, and Thine abiding love, we may endure all things in a quiet spirit, seeking ever in the midst of the things of this world to meditate oft-times upon the divine peace, and the heavenly rest of the glorified spirits of light; and, being held up by Thy mercy, may neither faint nor fear, but pass on, doing faithfully the duties of life, and, in our last hour, supported by the everlasting arms, we beseech Thee to guide us into the life everlasting. This we ask, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen.

GEORGE DAWSON

George Dawson (24 February 1821 – 30 November 1876) His father was headmaster of a Baptist school. He was educated at home, then at Marischal College, Aberdeen, and the University of Glasgow. He was an English nonconformist preacher, lecturer and activist. He was an influential voice in the calls for radical political and social reform in Birmingham, a philosophy that became known as the Civic Gospel.

Wednesday September Twenty-third

O LORD, of Thy tender love, prepare Thou Thyself a place for Thyself in my heart. Empty my heart of every feeling, though, emotion, desire, purpose, anxiety, hope, fear, which may interfere with Thy love. Open my whole heart to receive Thee; let nothing shut Thee out, nothing be shut to Thee. Thou alone canst fit my heart for Thyself; cleanse it wholly by Thy Spirit, that it may wholly love Thee, be wholly filled with Thee, wholly penetrated, enlightened, warmed, by Thee, that Thou mayest dwell in it forever, and it may love Thee with Thine own love in it everlastingly … Amen.

E. B. PUSEY (1800-1882)

Edward Bouverie Pusey, born August 22, 1800, Pusey, U.K. He was Educated at the University of Göttingen, Christ Church, University of Oxford, Eton College. He was an English churchman, for more than fifty years Regius Professor of Hebrew at the University of Oxford. He was one of the leading figures in the Oxford Movement. He died September 16, 1882, Oxford, U.K.

LOOK upon me, O Lord, and pity me; make me, and let me be Thine by the choice of my will … Amen

THOMAS WILSON (1663~1755)

Thomas Wilson (20 December 1663 – 7 March 1755) was Bishop of Sodor and Man between 1697 and 1755. He was born in Burton and Ness, in the Wirral, Cheshire, in December 1663. Having studied medicine at Trinity College, Dublin, he was ordained priest in 1689. In 1692 the Lord of Mann, William Stanley the Earl of Derby, appointed him personal chaplain and tutor to the earl's son. Five years later, at Lord Derby's urging, Wilson reluctantly accepted promotion to the vacant bishopric of Sodor and Man.

Sunday September the Twentieth

WE beseech Thee, O Lord, remember all for good; have mercy upon all, O God. Remember every soul who, being in any affliction, trouble, or agony, stands in need of Thy mercy and help; all who are in necessity or distress; all who love, or hate us. Thou, O Lord, art the Helper of the helpless; the Hope of the hopeless; the Saviour of them who are tossed with tempests; the Haven of them who sail; be Thou All to all. The glorious majesty of the Lord our God be upon us; prosper Thou the work of our hands upon us; Oh, prosper Thou our handywork. Lord, be Thou within me, to strengthen me; without me, to keep me; above me to protect me; beneath me, to uphold me; before me, to direct me; behind me, to keep me from straying; round about me, to defend me. Blessed be Thou, O Lord, our Father, for ever and ever … Amen.

LANCELOT ANDREWES (1555~1626)

An English bishop and scholar, who held high positions in the Church of England during the reigns of Elizabeth I and James I. A “formidable scholar,” he was the master of 15 languages. Andrewes' name is the first on the list of divines appointed to compile the King James Authorized Version of the Bible. He headed the "First Westminster Company" which took charge of the first books of the Old Testament (Genesis to 2 Kings). He acted, furthermore, as a sort of general editor for the project as well.

Wednesday September Sixteenth

O GOD, who remainest the same through all else fades, who changest with our changing moods, who leavest us not when we leave Thee, we thank Thee that, when we lose faith in Thee, soon or late we come to faith in something that leads us back again with firmer trust and more security. Even if we wander into the far country, we take ourselves with us; ourselves who are set towards Thee as rivers to the sea. If we turn to foolishness, our hearts grow faint and weary, our path is set with thorns, the night overtakes us, and we find we have strayed from light and life.

Grant us clearer vision of the light which shows no shade of turning, that we stray not in folly away; incline our hearts to love the truth alone, so that we miss Thee not at last; give us to realize of what spirit we are, so that we cleave ever to Thee, who alone canst give us rest and joy … Amen.

WILLIAM EDWIN ORCHARD

William Edwin Orchard, (born November 20, 1877, Buckinghamshire, England—died June 12, 1955, Brownhills, Staffordshire), English ecumenical priest who strove for a closer understanding between Protestants and Roman Catholics. He entered Westminster College, Cambridge, to prepare for the Presbyterian ministry and in 1904 was ordained and became a minister at Enfield, Middlesex. After receiving a Doctor of Divinity in 1909, he became minister of the King’s Weigh House Congregational Church, London, in 1914.

Sunday September the Thirteenth

ALMIGHTY God, at who’s right-hand are pleasures for evermore, we pray Thee to make our religion one of joy and brightness. Dispel from our minds all doubt, gloom and depression, and may we rejoice because we are Thy redeemed and forgiven children. Grant that day by day our lips may be singing Thy praises, and our hearts be gladdened in holy anticipation of the life that knows no ending; through Jesus Christ our Lord …
Amen.
OUR Father, in whose presence is fullness of joy, we pray Thee to make us happy every hour of the day in the joy of Thy presence; through Jesus Christ our Lord …
Amen.

MARY WILDER TILESTON

Very little is known about Mary Wilder (Foote) Tileston (1843-1934), the author of Joy and Strength, except her love of spiritual literature. Although she lived in the 19th century, her devotional selections capture biblical truths and values that will always endure. Her book, Joy and Strength, is a compilation of thoughts and writings from giants of the faith including St. Augustine, Thomas a Kempis, Frederick William Faber and hundreds of others. A previous book compiled by Tileston, Daily Strength for Daily Needs, shares the same love of literature and insight presented in Joy and Strength.

Wednesday September the Ninth

LORD, who knowest all things, and lovest all men better than Thou knowest, Thine is might and wisdom and love to save us.
As our fathers called unto Thee, and were holpen, and were led along the ways Thou seest good, so , in all time of need, from all evil, the evil of our time and of our hearts, deliver us, good Lord.
From all perplexity of mind; from loneliness of thought, and discontented brooding, from wondering what Thou wouldst have us do, deliver us, Lord. Especially from whatever sin besets up, save and deliver us with might, O Lord.
From all bereavement, sorrow, and desertion; from all things that separate us from each other and from our God; from all evils we have prayed against, and from all we have not thought of, deliver, O Lord, Thy servants, whose hope is in Thy goodness for ever … Amen.

ROWLAND WILLIAMS

Rowland Williams (Baptized 27 March 1779 – 28 December 1854) was a Welsh Anglican priest and writer. Williams, from Mallwyd, Merionethshire, Wales, was educated at a school in the local church and by the vicar of Betws-yn-Rhos, he attended Ruthin School and then (from 1798 to 1802) Jesus College, Oxford, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1802 and a Master of Arts degree in 1805. After his ordination in 1802 by John Randolph, the Bishop of Oxford, he was an usher at Friars School, Bangor and also curate of Llandygai. He then held other parish appointments in north Wales from 1807 as vicar of Cilcain, vicar of Halkyn, vicar of Meifod and, from 1836 until his death, vicar of Ysceifiog, Flintshire.

Sunday September the Sixth

PRAISED, be Thou, O God, Almighty Ruler, who dost make the day bright with Thy sunshine, and the night with the beams of heavenly fires! Listen now to our prayers, and forgive us both our conscious and unconscious transgressions. Clothe us with the armor of righteousness; shield us with Thy truth, watch over us witty power; save us from all calamity; and give us grace to pass all the days of our life, blameless, holy, peaceful, free from sin, terror, and offence. For with Thee is mercy and plenteous redemption, our Lord and God, and to Thee we bring our thanks and praise … Amen.

GREEK CHURCH

The Eastern Orthodox Church, officially the Orthodox Catholic Church, is the second-largest Christian church, with approximately 220 million baptized members. It operates as a communion of autocephalous churches, each governed by its bishops in local synods. Roughly half of Eastern Orthodox Christians live in Russia.

O LORD, hear my prayer, fulfil my desire to my good, and to the praise of Thy holy name … Amen.

SARUM BREVIARY, A.D. 1085

a variant ("use") of the Roman Rite widely used for the ordering of Christian public worship, including the Mass and the Divine Office. It was established by Saint Osmund, Bishop of Salisbury, and Richard Poore in the 11th century and was originally the local form used in the Cathedral and Diocese of Salisbury, England.

Wednesday September the Second

TAKE, this Thy happy child to-night Strong Father and Friend.
It is time for sleep
And Thy child comes again to Thy knee,
Sure of a perfect welcome,
Sure of forgiveness for failure,
Sure of a sweet, deep sleep,
Safe held in Thy care.
Take this Thy happy child to-night,
Strong Father and Friend.

JOHN S. HOYLAND (1887-1957)

John Somervell Hoyland was born in Edgbaston, Birmingham in 1887, John Somervell was educated at King Edward's School, Birmingham; Christ's College, Cambridge (MA. 1914); and Hartford Seminary School of Missions, USA. In 1911, Hoyland took part with other British Young Friends in a visit to the USA which contributed to the unification of American Quakers. From 1912 to 1926, Hoyland worked as a missionary in India. He compiled A Book of Prayers: written for use in Indian colleges. On his return to England, Hoyland joined the staff of Woodbrooke, the Quaker college in Selly Oak. He remained there for 24 years as a lecturer in biblical, social and international questions

BE present, O Lord, to Thy faithful people, and as Thou dost in Thy compassion vouchsafe them a hearty desire to pray, grant them, O Most Loving, the aid of Thy comfort: through Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen.

GELASIAN SACRAMENTARY

The so-called Gelasian Sacramentary (Latin: Sacramentarium Gelasianum) is a book of Christian liturgy, containing the priest's part in celebrating the Eucharist. It is the second oldest western liturgical book that has survived: only the Verona Sacramentary is older. The book exists in several manuscripts, the oldest of which is an 8th-century manuscript in the Vatican Library

Sunday August Thirteenth

O GOD, who hast in mercy taught us how good it is to follow the holy desires which Thou manifoldly puttest into our hearts, and how bitter is the grief of falling short of whatever beauty our minds behold, strengthen us, we beseech Thee, to walk steadfastly throughout life in the better path which our hearts once chose; so that, having been faithful to Thee all the days of our life here, we may be able hopefully to resign ourselves into Thy hands hereafter … Amen.

ROWLAND WILLIAMS

WE, beseech Thee, O Lord, let the power of the Holy Spirit be present with us, that it may both mercifully cleanse our heats, and protect us from all adversities; through our Lord Jesus Christ … Amen.

LEONINE SACRAMENTARY, A.D. 440

A Collect from the earliest known collection being the Leonine Sacramentary named after Pope Leo I (c. 400 – 10 November 461), also known as Saint Leo the Great, Bishop of Rome from 29 September 440 and died in 461.

Wednesday August Twenty-sixth

O LORD, the Author and Persuader of peace, love, and good-will, soften our hard and steely hearts, warm our icy and frozen hearts, that we may wish well to one another, and may be the true disciples of Jesus Christ. And give us grace even now to begin to show forth that heavenly life, wherein there is no disagreement nor hatred, but peace and love on all hands, one towards another … Amen.

LODOVICUS VIVES (1493-1540)

Juan Luis Vives [Joannes Ludovicus Vives] was born March 6, 1493, Valencia, Spain. A scholar and Renaissance humanist who spent most of his adult life in the Southern Netherlands. He was educated at the University of Paris. As a Renaissance humanist, his beliefs on the soul, insight into early medical practice, and perspective on emotions, memory and learning earned him the title of the "father" of modern psychology. He died May 6, 1540, in Bruges, Belgium.

BY, that forgiving tenderness, O Lord, wherewith Thou didest ever wait for me; by that tender love wherewith, whenever I wandered, Thou watchedest over me; Thine infinite love, wherewith Thou willest that I should love Thee eternally; give me love like Thine, that I may forgive, compassionate, love like Thee … Amen.

E. B. PUSEY (1800-1882)

Sunday August Twenty-third

O GOD our Lord, the stay of all them that put their trust in Thee, wherever Thou leadest we would go, for Thy ways are perfect wisdom and love. Even when we walk through the dark valley, Thy light can shine into our hearts and guide us safely through the night of sorrow. Be Thou our Friend, and we need ask no more in heaven or earth; for Thou art the Comfort of all who trust in Thee, the Help and Defense of all who hope in Thee. O Lord, we would be Thine; let us never fall away from Thee. We would accept all things without murmuring from Thy hand, for whatever Thou dost is right. Blend our wills with Thine, and then we need fear no evil nor death itself, for all things must work together for our good, Lord, keep us in Thy love and truth; comfort us with Thy light; and guide us by Thy Holy Spirit … Amen.

S. WEISS (1738-1805)

Christian Samuel Weiss, born May 28, 1738, Leipzig, Leipzig, Saxony, Germany, the Son of Christian Samuel Weiss, Professor and Dorotha Elisabeth Weiss. He was the Pastor in Taucha (Nordsachsen). He Died March 16, 1805 (66), Leipzig, Saxony, Germany

Wednesday August Nineteenth

O LORD, grant to us so to love Thee with all our heart, with all our mind, and all our soul, and our neighbor for Thy sake, that the grace of charity and brotherly love may dwell in us, and all envy, harshness, and ill-will may die in us; and fill our hearts with feelings of love, kindness, and compassion, so that, by constantly rejoicing in the happiness and good success of others, by sympathizing with them in their sorrows, and putting away all harsh judgments and envious thoughts, we may follow Thee, who art Thyself the true and perfect Love … Amen.

TREASURY OF DEVOTION

The Treasury of Devotion is a ‘Manual of Prayer for General and Daily Use’ published by the Church of England. This 1890 Devotional guide was edited by Rev Thomas Thellusson Carter, the Honorable Canon of Christ Church, Oxford, Waterloo Place, London.

POUR, upon us, O Lord, the spirit of brotherly kindness and peace; so that, sprinkled with the dew of Thy benediction, we may be made glad by Thy glory and grace; through Christ out Lord … Amen.

SARUM BREVIARY, A. D. 1085

The Sarum Rite, also called the ‘Use of Salisbury’, was a variation of the Roman Rite developed in the late1000s that was known to be high in ceremony. It also had a wealth of richly worded prayers that have influenced Christian worship ever since. Many prayers from the Sarum Rite were used in the Book of Common Prayer.

Sunday August Sixteenth

O FATHER, our Father, this day may bring some hard task to our life, or some hard trail to our love. We may grow weary, or sad, or hopeless in our lot. But, Father, our whole life until now has been one great proof of Thy care. Bread has come for our body, thoughts to our mind, love to our heart, and all from Thee. So help us, we implore Thee, while we still stand on this side of all that the day may bring, to resolve that we trust Thee this day to shine into any gloom of the mind, to stand by us in any trial of our love, and to give us rest in Thy good time as we need. May this day be full of a power that shall bring us near to Thee, and make us more like Thee; and, O God, may we so trust Thee this day, that, when the day is done, our trust shall be firmer than ever. Then, when our last day comes, and our work is done, may we trust Thee in death and forever, in the spirit of Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen.

ROBERT COLLYER

Collyer was born December 8, 1823, in Keighley, England. After a hard childhood, around age 21, he began attending the Wesleyan church. In 1850, Collyer emigrated to America. He first settled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and in 1859, he moved from the Methodist church to the Unitarians. The he and his family moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he was appointed Minister at Large for the First Unitarian Church. In 1862, Collyer moved to Chicago became Minister in Charge at the North Side Unitarian Church. The church and his home burned in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. In 1879, Collyer moved to New York City to become pastor of the Unitarian Church of the Messiah. He retired in 1896, and Leeds University awarded him an honorary Doctoral degree in 1907. He died November 1, 1912, New York City and is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, Bronx, New York.

Wednesday August Twelfth

O LORD, our hiding place, grant us wisdom, we pray Thee, to seek no hiding place out of Thee in life or in death. Now hide us in Thine own presence from the provoking of all men, and keep us from the strife of tongues. Make us meek, humble, patient, and teach us to seek peace and ensure it … Amen.

CHRISTINA G. ROSSETTI

Born December 5, 1830, London, Christina Georgina Rossetti was an English poet who wrote various romantic, devotional, and children's poems. She died December 29, 1894, in Torrington Square. Her poems, "Goblin Market" and "Remember" remain famous.

O HOLY, and ever-blessed Lord, teach us, we beseech Thee, to love one another, to exercise forbearance and forgiveness towards our enemies; to recompense no man evil for evil, but to be merciful, even as Thou, our Father in heaven, art merciful : that so we may continually follow after Thee in all our doings, and be more and more conformed to Thine image and likeness … Amen.

NEW CHURCH BOOK OF WORSHIP, 1876

The New Church is the name for several historically related Christian denominations that developed as a new religious group, influenced by the writings of scientist and Swedish Lutheran theologian Emanuel Swedenborg.

Sunday August Ninth

THEE, most merciful God, do I now invoke to descend into my soul, which Thou hast prepared for Thy reception by the desire which Thou hast breathed into it. Ere ever I cried to Thee, Thou, most Merciful, hadst called and sought me, that I might find Thee, and finding love Thee. Even so I sought and found Thee, Lord, and desire to love Thee. Increase my desire, and grant me what I ask. See, I love Thee, but too little; strengthen my love. When my spirit aspires to Thee, and meditates on Thine unspeakable goodness, the burden of the flesh becomes less heavy, the tumult of thought is stilled, the weight of mortality is less oppressive. Then fain would my soul find wings, she might rise in tireless flight ever upwards to Thy glorious throne, and there be filled with the refreshing solace that belongs to the citizens of heaven … Amen.

ST. AUGUSTINE (354-430)

Augustine of Hippo (13 November 354 – 28 August 430 AD), also known as Saint Augustine, was a theologian, philosopher, and the bishop of Hippo Regius in Numidia, Roman North Africa. His writings influenced the development of Western philosophy and Western Christianity, and he is viewed as one of the most important Church Fathers of the Latin Church in the Patristic Period. His many important works include The City of God, On Christian Doctrine, and Confessions.

Wednesday August Fifth

O LORD, may Thy all-powerful grace make me as perfect as Thou hast commanded me to be … Amen.

THOMAS WILSON (1663 – 1755)

THOMAS WILSON, English bishop, was born at Burton, Cheshire, and educated at Trinity College, Dublin. He was ordained in 1686, and became curate at Newchurch Kenyon, Lancashire. In 1692 he was appointed chaplain to the 9th earl of Derby, who in 1697 offered him the bishopric of Sodor and Man. He was consecrated bishop in 1698. His episcopate was marked by a number of reforms in the Isle of Man. New churches were built, libraries founded and books were printed in Manx, his Principles and Duties of Christianity (London, 1707) being the first book published in that language. He also encouraged farming, and set the example of planting fruit and forest trees.

O MOST, merciful God, whose mercies are as high as the heavens, great and many as the moments of eternity; fill my soul, I beseech Thee, with great thoughts of Thy unspeakable blessings, that my thankfulness may be as great as my needs of mercy are. Let Thy loving-kindness endure for ever and ever upon me; and, because I cannot praise Thee according to Thy excellence, take my soul, in due time, into the land of everlasting praises. Grant this for Jesus Christ’s sake … Amen.

JEREMY TAYLOR (1613-1667)

Jeremy Taylor was born August 15, 1613, Cambridge, England. He was educated at Gonville & Caius College, University of Cambridge, The Perse Upper School. He became a cleric in the Church of England and achieved fame as an author during the Protectorate of Oliver Cromwell. He is sometimes known as the "Shakespeare of Divines" for his poetic style of expression, and he is frequently cited as one of the greatest prose writers in the English language. He died August 13, 1667, Lisburn, England.

Sunday August Second

MOLD us, great God, into forms of beauty and usefulness by the wheel of Providence and by the touch of Thy hand. Fulfill Thine ideal, and conform us to the image of Thy Son. In Thy great house may we stand as vessels meet for Thy use. We are little better than common earthenware, but may we be cleansed, and purified, and filled with Thy heavenly treasure. Dip us deep into the River of Life, and give refreshment by us to many parched and weary hearts … Amen.

FREDERICK B. MEYER

Frederick Brotherton Meyer, born April 8, 1847, London, United Kingdom, a contemporary and friend of D. L. Moody and A. C. Dixon, was a Baptist pastor and evangelist in England. He was educated at the University of London, Regent's Park College, Brighton College. He was involved in ministry and inner-city mission work on both sides of the Atlantic. He died March 28, 1929.

EVERLASTING Father, I beseech Thee to enable me to love Thee with all my heart and soul and strength and mind, and my neighbor as myself. Help me to be meek and lowly in heart. Sweeten my temper, and dispose me to be kind and helpful to all men. Make me kind in thought, gentle in speech, generous in action … Amen.

Wednesday July Twenty-ninth

ALMIGHTY, and Eternal God, who hast revealed Thy nature in Christ Jesus Thy Son as Love; we humbly pray Thee give us Thy Holy Spirit, to glorify Thee also in our hearts as pure Love, and thus constrain us by Thy divine power to love Thee again with our whole souls, and our brethren as ourselves; that so by Thy grace we may be fulfilled with love, and evermore abide in Thee and Thou in us, with all joyfulness, and free from fear or distrust, through Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen.

BUNSEN’S COLLECTION

Christian Charles or Karl Josias von Bunsen, also known as Baron von Bunsen, was a German diplomat and scholar. He was born August 25, 1791, in Korbach, Germany. He was educated at the University of Göttingen, Philipps-University Marburg. He was Plenipotentiary and Envoy Extraordinary of His Majesty Frederic William IV at the Court of St. James. His collection of prayers was part of his memoirs and divided into Part I. For the Family; Part II. Prayers and Meditations for Private Use. He died November 28, 1860, in Bonn, Germany

O GOD, who art Love, for the sake of the Son of Thy love, give me grace never more to sin against love … Amen

E. B. PUSEY

E.B. Pusey, in full Edward Bouverie Pusey, (born August 22, 1800, Pusey, Berkshire, England—died September 16, 1882, Ascot Priory, Berkshire), English Anglican theologian, scholar, and a leader of the Oxford movement, which sought to revive in Anglicanism the High Church ideals of the later 17th-century church.

Sunday July Twenty-sixth

FORGIVE me, most gracious Lord and Father, if this day I have done or said anything to increase the pain of the world. Pardon the unkind word, the impatient gesture, the hard and selfish deed, the failure to show sympathy and kindly help where I had the opportunity, but missed it; and enable me so to live that I may daily do something to lessen the tide of human sorrow, and add to the sum of human happiness; through Him who died for us and rose again, Thy Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ … Amen.

FREDERICK B. MEYER

LET the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.

PSALM XIX : 14

Wednesday July Twenty-second

THE, love of our hearts, dear Lord, Goes to Thee This day. We are little children, wearied with play, Who have sleep for a while in their mother’s arms, Then awaking, glad and refreshed, Clasp her, caress her, knowing once more The clasp, the caress of her love. Thus, even thus, in our weakness, Do we turn unto Thee, with childlike trust, For the day’s benediction of love … Amen.

JOHN S. HOYLAND (1887-1957)

~A morning Prayer for a Little Child ~~A morning Prayer for a Little Child ~

O GOD, make me glad all the day long, and when the night cometh let me fall asleep thinking of Thy goodness and Thy love, for Jesus sake … Amen.

Charles Lewis Slattery (1867–1930)

Charles Lewis Slattery (December 9, 1867 – March 12, 1930) He was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to the. Slattery was educated at Harvard University (1887-1891) and the former Episcopal Theological School (1891-1894) at Cambridge, Massachusetts. He was ordained to the diaconate in 1894 and to the priesthood in 1895. He served as dean of the Cathedral of Our Merciful Saviour in Faribault, Minnesota from 1896-1907; rector of Christ Church, Springfield, Massachusetts (1907-1910); and rector of Grace Church, New York (1910-1922). Slattery was Bishop Coadjutor of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts from 1922 to 1927, and diocesan bishop from 1927-1930. A prolific author, he received honorary doctoral degrees from the Episcopal Theological School, the University of the South at Sewanee, Trinity College,

Sunday July Nineteenth

ETERNAL, God, maker of all creatures, Thou fathomless Abyss of loving-kindness, suffer now the light of Thy countenance to rise upon us! Shine into our hearts, O Thou true Sun of righteousness, and fill our souls with Thy beauty. Direct according to Thy will the work of our hands, and lead us in the right way to do that which is pleasing in Thy sight; so that through us, unworthy though we be, Thy holy Name may be glorified, to whom be praise, honor and glory for ever and ever … Amen.

ST. BASIL (A.D. 330-379)

Basil of Caesarea, also called Saint Basil the Great (330[8] – January 1 or 2, 379), was the bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia, Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). He was an influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed and opposed the heresies of the early Christian church, fighting against both Arianism and the followers of Apollinaris of Laodicea. His ability to balance his theological convictions with his political connections made Basil a powerful advocate for the Nicene position.

O GOD, who hast given unto us Thy Son, to be and a help to our weakness in following the path that leadeth unto life, grant us so to be His disciples that we may tread in His footsteps … Amen.

ROMAN BREVIARY

The Roman Breviary is the liturgical book of the Latin liturgical rites of the Catholic Church containing the public or canonical prayers, hymns, the Psalms, readings, and notations for everyday use, especially by bishops, priests, and deacons in the Divine Office.

Wednesday July Fifteenth

Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, who hast of Thine infinite goodness ordained that the order of our life should be many trials of heart and spirit, and who didst decree that Thy well-beloved Son should be disciplined in the same way of hardship and pain; grant unto us, we pray Thee, in all our necessities to repose entire confidence in Thee, to feel the assurance of Thy present love, and to walk with Thee by faith, though not by sight. May no perplexity create in us an impatient spirit, -- no temptation lead us into sin, -- no sorrow hide Thy loving will from us. But do Thou so increase in us all spiritual gifts that our very trials may lead us toward a perfect and regenerate life, and, in the days of our mortal pilgrimage, we may be sustained by a strength that is greater than our own. Through Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen.

HENRY WILDER FOOTE (1875-1964)

The Rev. Henry Wilder Foote, born February 2, 1875, at Boston Mass., was a Unitarian minister and author, in Cambridge, Mass. He was educated at the Roxbury Latin School and Harvard Divinity School. After graduation from Harvard in 1902, he was ordained to the Christian ministry in Kings Chapel, Boston. Foote served for six months with the American Red Cross in Washington in World War I. Dr. Foote, an authority on hymnody, was president of the Hymn Society of America in 1941. He was the author of “Three Centuries of American Hymnody,” published by the Harvard University Press in 1940. He died August 27, 1964, a summer resident in Bar Harbor Maine.

Sunday July Twelfth

SOFTEN, our hearts, O Lord, that we may be moved no less at the necessities and griefs of our neighbors than if they concerned ourselves, or the cases that touched us nearest, and let us think them to befall even to our dearest friends. Let us pity them as ourselves, and, in their adversity, let us have compassion upon them, that, as we would have pitied ourselves for the like cause, so we may be moved with pity towards those whom we see oppressed with the same adversities … Amen.

LUDOVICUS VIVES (1493–1540

Juan Luis Vives (Latin: Ioannes Lodovicus Vives) Born March 6, 1493, Valencia, Spain was a Spanish humanist and educational theorist who strongly opposed scholasticism and made his mark as one of the most influential advocates of humanistic learning in the early sixteenth century. His works are not limited to education but deal with a wide range of subjects including philosophy, psychology, politics, social reform and religion. Vives was not a systematic writer, which makes it difficult to classify him as a philosopher. His thought is eclectic and pragmatic, as well as historical, in its orientation. He took what he considered most valid from a variety of sources and combined these elements into a Christianized Aristotelianism. He died May 6, 1540, Bruges, Belgium.

CONFIRM, O Lord, we pray Thee, the hearts of Thy children, and strengthen them with the power of Thy grace; that they may both be devout in prayer to Thee, and sincere in love for each other; through Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen

LEONINE A.D. 440

Wednesday July Eighth

Be Thou, O Lord, our protection, who art our redemption; direct our minds by Thy gracious presence, and watch over our paths with guiding love; that, among the snares which lie hidden in this path wherein we walk, we may so pass onward with hearts fixed on Thee, that, by the track of faith, we may come to be where Thou wouldest have us … Amen.

MOZARABIC, A.D. 700

O LORD, make me love every token of Thy will, for love of Thee, and make me cheerful under every cross; take from me all which displeases Thee, or hinders Thy love in me, that I may deeply love Thee. Melt me with Thy love, that I may be all love, and with my whole being love Thee … Amen.

E. B. PUSEY

Sunday July Fifth

O GOD, our Father, help us to a deeper trust in the life everlasting. May we feel that this love which is now, ever shall be; this robe of the flesh is Thy gift to Thy child, and , when it is worn out, Thou wilt clothe him again; this work of life is the work Thou hast given us to do, and , when it is done, Thou wilt give us more; this love, that makes all our life so glad, flows from Thee, for Thou art Love, and we shall love forever. Help us to feel how, day by day, we see some dim shadow of the eternal day that will break upon us at the last. May the Gospel of Thy son the whisper of Thy Spirit, unite to make our faith in the life to come strong and clear; then shall we be glad when Thou shalt call us, and enter into Thy glory in Jesus Christ … Amen.

ROBERT COLLYER

Wednesday July First

O MY Lord, in Thine arms I am safe; keep me, and I have nothing to fear; give me up, and I have nothing to fear; give me up, and I have nothing to hope for. I know nothing about the future, but I rely upon Thee. I pray Thee to give me what is good for me. I leave it all to Thee, because Thou knowest and I do not. If Thou bringest pain or sorrow on me, give me grace to bear it well; keep me from fretfulness and selfishness. If Thou givest me health and strength and success in this world, keep me ever on my guard lest these great gifts carry me away from Thee. Give me to know Thee, to believe on Thee, to love Thee. Give me to die just at that time and in that way which is most for Thy glory … Amen.

JOHN HENRY NEWMAN

John Henry Newman (21 February 1801 – 11 August 1890) was an English theologian and poet, first an Anglican priest and later a Catholic priest and cardinal, who was an important and controversial figure in the religious history of England in the 19th century. He was known nationally by the mid-1830s, and was canonized as saint in the Catholic Church in 2019. His feast days: 9 October (Catholic Church), 11 August (Church of England), 21 February (Episcopal Church).

Sunday June Twenty-eighth

Almighty God, our only true and lasting light, look upon us with Thy constant mercy; when our eyes no longer behold those whom we have loved, we turn to Thee. Strengthen our faith that, through gone from our sight, they are in some other of Thy divine mansions, and that one day the door of death shall open, and we, passing through, shall behold them radiant with Thy light. Comfort us, strengthen us, guide us to Thy glory … Amen.

Almighty God, Lord of all saints and of all souls, look upon us, and so guide and govern us by Thy Spirit that we may come at last to take part with that great host, who, looking back upon the way in which they have been led, praise and magnify Thy holy name … Amen.

GEORGE DAWSON

George Dawson (24 February 1821 – 30 November 1876) was an English nonconformist preacher, lecturer and activist. He was an influential voice in the calls for radical political and social reform in Birmingham, a philosophy that became known as the Civic Gospel.

Wednesday June Twenty-fourth

O GOD, the Strength of the weak, the Friend of sinners, and the Comfort of the sorrowful; grant Thy mighty protection to the tempted; reveal Thy grace to the fallen; maintain the faith of those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, and give the consolation of Thy presence to those who are disappointed, embittered, lonely, or in despair, for Thy mercies‘ sake … Amen.

DEVINE SERVICE

We bring before Thee, O Lord, the troubles and perils of peoples and nations, the sighing of prisoners and captives, the sorrows of the bereaved, the necessities of strangers, the helplessness of the weak, the despondency of the weary, the failing powers of the aged. O Lord, draw near to each, for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen.

ST. ANSELM

Saint Anselm of Canterbury, also called Anselm of Aosta after his birthplace and Anselm of Bec after his monastery, was an Italian Benedictine monk, abbot, philosopher and theologian of the Catholic Church, who held the office of Archbishop of Canterbury from 1093 to 1109

Sunday June Twenty-first

ABIDE, with us, O Lord, this night, that the brightness of Thy love may be around us, and that the darkness be not dark. Abide with, us, O Lord, this night, for in loneliness we are not alone if Thou be nigh. Abide with the sick, the sorrowful, the forsaken, and the weary, O Lord, to strengthen, to comfort, to cheer, and to give rest. Shield us all from that darkness of the soul which seeth Thee not, that loneliness of the heart which hearth not Thy voice. Abide with us through life, and in the valley of the shadow of death forsake us not, but bid us be of good courage, for Thou art with us still.
Blessing and glory and thanksgiving be unto Thee, O God, forever … Amen.

FAMILY PRAYER

The best place to teach children about our faith is in the home. The Anglican Family Prayer Book is a resource for Episcopal families who want to pass on Anglican prayers and traditions to their children and teach faith in everyday settings.

Wednesday June Seventeenth

O, LORD God of our fathers, we bless Thy holy name, Thy grace and mercy for all those who have gone before us to rest in Thee; all, in all vocations, who have pleased Thee. And, we pray Thee, give us also grace to walk before Thee as they walked, in righteousness and self-denial, that, having labored as they labored, we may afterwards rest as they rest … Amen.

CHRISTINA G. ROSSETTI

O, GOD, we pray Thee to have in Thy holy keeping those precious souls, nearest and dearest to us, who have departed this life in Thy faith and love. Grant them eternal joy in Thy service. Give them peace and rest in Thy presence, and bring them to that glorious perfection promised to Thy saints; for the sake of Him who died and rose again for us, Thy son Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen.

Sunday June Seventh

O Thou, most sweet and loving Lord, Thou knowest mine infirmities, and the necessities which I endure; in how great evils and sins I am involved; how often I am weighted down, tempted, and disturbed by them. I entreat of Thee consolation and support. I speak to Thee who knowest all things, to whom all my inward thoughts are open, and who alone canst perfectly comfort and help me. Thou knowest what things I stand in most need of. Behold, I stand before Thee poor and naked, calling for grace, and imploring mercy. Refresh Thy hungry supplicant, kindle my coldness with the fire of Thy Love, enlighten my blindness with the brightness of Thy presence. Suffer me not to go away from Thee hungry and dry, but deal mercifully with me, as oftentimes Thou hast dealt wonderfully with Thy saints … Amen.

THOMAS A’ KEMPIS

Thomas à Kempis was a German-Dutch canon regular of the late medieval period and the author of The Imitation of Christ, one of the most popular and best-known Christian devotional books. His name means Thomas "of Kempen", his home town, and in German he is known as Thomas von Kempen.

Wednesday June Tenth

O, GOD, in whom is neither near nor far, through Thee we yearn for those who belong to us, and who are not here with us. We would fain be near them to shield them from harm and to touch them with the tenderness of love. We cast our cares for them on Thee in this evening hour, and pray Thee to do better for them than we could do. May no distance have power to wean their hearts from us, and no sloth of ours cause us to lag behind the even pace of growth. In due time restore them to us, and gladden our souls with their sweet sight. We remember too the loved ones into whose dear eyes we cannot look again. O God in whom are both the living and the dead, Thou art still their life and light as Thou art ours. Wherever they be, lay Thy hand tenderly upon them, and grant that someday we may meet again, and hear once more their broken words of love … Amen

WALTER RAUSCHENBUSCH

Walter Rauschenbusch[a] (1861–1918) was an American theologian and Baptist pastor who taught at the Rochester Theological Seminary. Rauschenbusch was a key figure in the Social Gospel and single tax movements that flourished in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Sunday June Seventh

O thou, who satisfies the desires of the hearts that Thou hast made, and who refreshest those who are weary, our longings praise Thee, our desires worship Thee, and our whole natures call aloud for Thee. Enable us so to rise to Thee that … having thus risen … we may love all that Thou lovest, and care for every one for whom Thou carest, and for every thing that is dear to Thee. Prepare our hearts, we beseech Thee, to delight in whatsoever is true and beautiful and good, through Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen.

WILLIAM ANGUS KNIGHT (1836-1916)

The Rev Prof William Angus Knight LLD (22 February 1836 – 4 March 1916) was a Scottish Free Church minister and author and Professor of Moral Philosophy at St Andrews University.

O thou, who fillest heaven and earth, ever acting, ever at rest; Thou who teachest the hearts of the faithful without the din of words, teach us, we pray Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen.

ST. AUGUSTINE (354-430)

Aurelius Augustinus Hipponensis, was born November 13, 354 AD, Thagaste and died August 28, 430 AD, Hippo Regius, Annaba, Algeria. Known as Augustine of Hippo, also as Saint Augustine, was a Roman African, Manichaean, early Christian theologian, doctor of the Church, and Neoplatonic philosopher from Numidia whose writings influenced the development of the Western Church and Western philosophy, and indirectly all of Western Christianity. His major works were: The Confessions, The City of God and On the Trinity.

Wednesday June Third

Grant, Lord, that I may not, for one moment, admit willingly into my soul any thought contrary to Thy love … Amen

E.B. PUSEY

ALMIGHTY, God, grant that, by the faithful practice of the things that we know to be true, our hearts may be purged of all evil thoughts and desires, and we be brought back again to something of the pureness of spirt by which alone Thou mayest be served. Forgive all our wanderings from the light. Grant that we may escape this great condemnation … that, light having come into the world, we have chosen darkness rather than light. Show us the light, and cause us to live in it, and by it to pass through the shadow of death with safety, and to abide with it for evermore. Hear us of Thy mercy, through Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen

GEORGE DAWSON

Sunday May Thirty-first

we give Thee thanks, yea, more than thanks, O Lord our God, for all Thy goodness at all times and in all places, because Thou hast shielded, rescued, helped, and guided us all the days of our lives, and brought us unto this hour. We pray and beseech Thee, merciful God, to grant in Thy goodness that we may spend this day, and all the time of our lives, without sin, in fulness of joy, holiness, and reverence of Thee. But drive away from us, O Lord, all envy, all fear, and all temptations. Bestow upon us what is good and meet. Whatever sin we commit in thought, word, or deed, do Thou in Thy goodness and mercy be pleased to pardon. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, through the grace, mercy, and love of Thine only begotten Son … Amen.

LITURGY OF ST. MARK (175-254?)

The Divine Liturgy of St. Mark is the ancient, traditional main Liturgy of the Orthodox Church of Alexandria. With the discovery of a papyrus from the end of the fourth century in 1928, it also has the most ancient documentation of any Orthodox Liturgy still in use. This is the Liturgy of the great hierarchs of Alexandria, whose names occur constantly in the Church calendar: St. Athanasius the Great, St. Cyril of Alexandria, St. John the Almsgiver, and countless others. St. Anthony the Great and the Desert Fathers prayed at this Liturgy, and knew and loved its prayers.

Wednesday May Twenty-seventh

O thou who hast created all things, O Thou who knowest all things, O Father who seest all our weaknesses, all our faults, but who likewise hearest the sighing of all contrite hearts, teach us who know but darkly and who see but a little way, to trust ourselves and all dear to us, without fear or doubt, to Thy never-failing love, that, wIth minds stayed on Thee, we may have perfect peace, in all our joys remembering Thee, in all our sorrows not cast down, and able through the bitterness of tears to say, “Thy will be done.”… Amen

FAMILY PRAYERS

We beseech, Thee, O Lord, give strength to the weary, aid to the suffers, comfort to the sad, and help to those in tribulation … Amen

AMBROSIAN SACRAMENTARY

The Ambrosian Rite, also called the Milanese Rite, is a Catholic Western liturgical rite. The rite is named after Saint Ambrose, a bishop of Milan in the fourth century. The Ambrosian Rite, which differs from the Roman Rite, is used by some five million Catholics in the greater part of the Archdiocese of Milan, Italy, also in about fifty parishes of the Diocese of Lugano, in the Canton of Ticino, Switzerland. Although the distinctive Ambrosian Rite has risked suppression at various points in its history, it survived and was reformed after the Second Vatican Council, partly because Pope Paul VI belonged to the Ambrosian Rite, having previously been Archbishop of Milan.

Sunday May Twenty-fourth

O GOD, who makest cheerfulness the companion of strength, but apt to take wings in times of sorrow, we humbly beseech Thee that if, in Thy sovereign wisdom, Thou sendest weakness, yet for Thy mercy’s sake deny us not the comfort of patience; and, since the fretfulness of our spirits is more hurtful than the heaviness of our burden, grant us that heavenly calmness which comes of owning Thy hand in all things, and patience in the trust that Thou doest all things well … Amen.

ROWLAND WILLIAMS

Rowland Williams (16 August 1817–18 January 1870) was vice-principal and Professor of Hebrew at St David's College, Lampeter, from 1849 to 1862 and one of the most influential theologians of the nineteenth century. He supported biblical criticism and pioneered comparative Religious Studies in Britain. He was also a priest in the Church of England, and the vicar of Broad Chalke, where he is buried. Williams is also credited with introducing rugby football to Wales; Lampeter's team was the first to be established in the nation.

Grant, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that we, who in our tribulation are yet of good cheer because of Thy loving-kindness, may find Thee mighty to save from all dangers, through Jesus Christ … Amen.

ROMAN BREVIARY

The Roman Breviary (Latin: Breviarium Romanum) is the liturgical book of the Latin liturgical rites of the Catholic Church containing the public or canonical prayers, hymns, the Psalms, readings, and notations for everyday use, especially by bishops, priests, and deacons in the Divine Office.

Wednesday May Twentieth

Gracious, Lord, in whom are laid up all the treasures of knowledge and wisdom, direct me in the ways of life; remove from me the ways of death. Give me a soft and meek spirit, that I may help the succor less, and comfort the comfortless. O my dear Lord, pardon me for the neglect of this duty, and make me to redeem the time with a cheerful constancy … Amen

THE PENITENT PILGRIM published by John Dawson 1641

Written by Richard Brathwaite (1588 ~ 1673) an English poet

O GOD, who art Love, grant to Thy children to hear one another’s burdens in perfect goodwill, that Thy peace which passeth understanding may keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus our Lord … Amen

BOOK OF HOURS, 1805

The Book of Hours was a prayer book for the laity that developed in late medieval Europe and that was used for private devotion. These works were often personalized for individual patrons and illuminated with miniature paintings depicting the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and individual saints. The text included a calendar of liturgical feast days and a series of prayers to be recited eight times a day, according to established practice.

Sunday May Seventeenth

Late have I loved Thee, O Thou Eternal Truth and Greatness: late have I sought Thee, my Farther! But Thou didst seek me, then I knew Thee and learnt to love Thee. I thank Thee, O my Light, that Thou didst thus shine upon me; that Thou didst teach my soul what Thou wouldst be to me, and didst incline Thy face in pity unto me. Thou, Lord hast become my Hope, my Comfort, my Strength, my All! In Thee doth my soul rejoice. The darkness vanished from before mine eyes, and I beheld Thee, the Sun of Righteousness. When I loved darkness, I knew Thee not, but wandered on from night to night. But Thou didst lead me out of that blindness; Thou didst take me by the hand and call me to Thee, and now I can thank Thee, and Thy mighty voice which hath penetrated to my inmost heart … Amen

ST. AUGUSTINE (354~430)

Wednesday May Thirteenth

Ah, Lord, unto whom all hearts are open, Thou canst govern the vessel of my soul far better than I can. Arise, O Lord, and command the stormy wind and troubled sea of my heart to be still, and at peace in Thee, that I may look up to Thee undisturbed, and abide in union with Thee, my Lord. Let me not be carried hither and thither by wandering thoughts; but, forgetting all else, let me see and hear Thee. Renew my spirit; kindle in me Thy light, that it may shine within me, and my heart may burn in love and adoration towards Thee. Let Thy Holy Spirit dwell in me continually, and make me Thy temple and sanctuary, and fill me with divine love and light and life, with devout and heavenly thoughts, with comfort and strength, with joy and peace … Amen

JOHANN ARNDT (1555 ~ 1621)

A German Lutheran theologian. He was born in Edderitz near Ballenstedt, in Anhalt-Köthen, and studied in several universities. He was at Helmstedt in 1576 and at Wittenberg in 1577. He wrote several influential books of devotional Christianity. Although reflective of the period of Lutheran Orthodoxy, he is seen as a forerunner of pietism, a movement within Lutheranism that gained strength in the late 17th century. Pietism combines its emphasis on biblical doctrine with the Reformed emphasis on individual piety and living a vigorous Christian life. a movement within Lutheranism.

Sunday May Tenth

MY God, I have again given way to temper, and said things I would fain have left unsaid. Just at a time when all seemed at peace around me, one little word of contradiction has thrown me back, and excited feelings which I thought were conquered forever. My Father, when shall I learn to give way to others, even though I may not agree entirely with them? Forsake me not, although I am self-confident. Teach me to yield more easily, to be more patient with those who argue with me. Fill me with grace to subdue all evil feelings; for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen
SHORT FAMILY PRAYERS

SET a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.
PSALM 141: 3

Wednesday May Sixth

ALMIGHTY, God, the Everlasting Lord, and Giver of every good and perfect gift, … bestow upon us at this time those things that are Thine, even joy and gladness, for Thou art ever-blessed. Pity and pardon us that we are so little able to be like Thee in these things; for upon us are the strains of sin and the dust of earth, the signs of strife and the marks of passion. Look upon us of Thy love, that these things may be taken away, and that we who have been sick in soul, and ofttimes faint in faith, may through the gift of Thine exceeding gladness rise to Thy joy. Forgive our sins, and so take away the sting of death. Grant us Thy love here as the earnest of the Spirit, that we, receiving of Thine in this mortal state, may hope to receive of Thine in the world which is to come … Amen

GEORGE DAWSON

Sunday May Third

O LORD, our God, who hast bidden the light to shine out of the darkness, who hast again wakened us to praise Thy goodness and ask for Thy grace; accept now, in Thy endless mercy, the sacrifice of our worship and thanksgiving, and grant unto us all such requests as may be wholesome for us. Make us to be children of the light and of the day, and heirs of Thy everlasting inheritance. Remember, O Lord, according to the multitude of Thy mercies, Thy whole Church; all who join with us in prayer; all our brethren by land or sea, or wherever they may be in Thy vast kingdom, who stand in need of Thy grace and succor. Pour out upon them the riches of Thy mercy, so that we, redeemed in soul and body, and steadfast in faith, may ever praise Thy wonderful and holy name … Amen

Greek church

Wednesday April Twenty-ninth

we love, Thee, O our God; and we desire to love Thee more and more. Grant to us that we may love Thee as much as we desire, and as much as we ought. O dearest Friend, who hast so loved and saved us, the thought of whom is so sweet and always growing sweeter, come with Christ and dwell in our hearts; then Thou wilt keep a watch over our lips, our steps, our deeds, and we shall not need to be anxious either for our souls or our bodies. Give us love, sweetest of all gifts, which knows no enemy. Give us in our hearts pure love, born of Thy love to us, that we may love others as Thou lovest us. O most loving Father of Jesus Christ, from whom floweth all love, let our hearts, frozen in sin, cold to Thee and cold to others, he warmed by this divine fire. So help and bless us in Thy Son … Amen

ST. ANSELM

Sunday April Twenty-sixth

ALMIGHTY, and most merciful God, in whom we live and move, and have our being; Lord of all life; Source of all light, guiding and governing all things of Thy loving kindness and power; hear our thanksgivings unto power; hear our thanksgivings unto Thee for all the joy that Thou puttest into mortal life; but chiefly for the joy that comes of sin forgiven, weakness strengthened, victory promised, life eternal looked for. To every one of us grant that, being fully conscious of having erred and strayed from Thy ways, we may be equally conscious of our need to go back again to the Good Shepherd. Let there be no doubt with any one of us that Thou dost forgive, even to the uttermost, all those who draw nigh in penitence to Thee; that so those of us who are sinful, and sad because sinful, and sad because sinful, and sorrowful in sinning, may have this day the joy of the Lord … Amen

GEORGE DAWSON

Wednesday April Twenty-second

Show, Thyself, O Lord and have pity on Thy child, and bring his steps into the way of peace. Thou that knowest our thoughts, make Thyself known to our hearts: Thou that art from everlasting, let us behold Thy truth. Hast Thou not make our souls in Thy likeness? Take away stain from the glass, and let us behold in it Thine image. When Thou willest, Thy love, and our souls are joined to Thee. Take away from me shame and rebuke; renew in me Thy strength, and show me the way of peace. Turn me again, and I shall be turned; take away the darkness which hideth Thee, and in the light of the living God let me see light … Amen

ROWLAND WILLIAMS

Sunday April Nineteenth

O GOD, the Light of believers, the eternal Glory of the just, whose light never setteth, and whose brightness knoweth no bounds; grant us to live in Thy glory, and to enter into Thine eternity; that, as Thou hast brought us through the night and granted us to see the morning , so Thou mayest bid us come to that blessed and everlasting day, where night is no more, and Thou dwellest in light, glorified by Thy saints, and adored by all them that believe; through Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen.

AMBROSIAN SACRAMENTARY

ALMIGHTY, God, give us grace to trust to Thy never-failing care and love those who are dear to us, for this life and the life to come; knowing that Thou art doing for them better things than we can desire or pray for; through Jesus Christ our Lord … Amen.

CHARLES LEWIS SLATTERY

Charles Lewis Slattery was a bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts and A prolific author, he received honorary doctoral degrees from the Episcopal Theological School, the University of the South at Sewanee, Trinity College, Hartford, and Harvard University.

Wednesday April Fifteenth

IN confidence of Thy goodness and great mercy, O Lord, I draw near unto Thee, as a sick person to the Healer, as one hungry and thirsty to the Fountain of life, a creature to the Creator, a desolate soul to my own tender Comforter. Behold, in Thee is all whatsoever I can or ought to desire; Thou art my Salvation and my Redemption, my Hope and my Strength. Rejoice therefore this day the soul of Thy servant; for unto Thee, O Lord, have I lifted up my soul … Amen.

THOMAS A` KEMPIS (1380~1471)

O LORD, who dost wash out our offences, do Thou comfort us who faithfully call upon Thee; and we beseech Thee that Thou wouldest blot out our transgressions, and restore us from death to the land of the living, through Christ our Lord … Amen.

SARUM BREVIARY, A.D. 1085

Sunday April Twelfth

O LORD, mercifully incline Thine ears to hear our prayers, and, of Thy loving-kindness, enlighten the depths of our hearts, that no evil desires may rule them … Amen

TREASURY OF DEVOTION

O god, who puttest into our hearts such deep desire that we cannot be at peace until we enjoy the feeling of Thy love; mercifully grant that the unspeakable sighing of our souls’ need may not go unsatisfied because of any unrighteousness of heart, which must divide us from the All-holy One; but strengthen us to do right by whomsoever we have wronged in thought, word, or deed; to renounce all plans of wrong-doing for the future; to purity our thoughts, and govern our appetites, so that we may have no bar between us and Thy glory, but enjoy Thy peace which passeth understanding … Amen

ROWLAND WILLIAMS

Wednesday April Eight

O LORD my God, for life and reason, nurture, preservation, guidance, education; for Thy gifts of grace and nature, for Thy calling, recalling, manifold recalling me again and again; for Thy forbearance, long-suffering, and long long-suffering toward me, even until now; for all from whom I have received any good or help; for the use of Thy present good things; for Thy promise, and my hope, of good things to come; for all these things, and for all other, which I know, which I know not, manifest or secret, remembered or forgotten by me, I praise Thee, I bless Thee, I give Thee thanks; and I will praise, and bless, and give Thee thanks, all the days of my life. What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits to me? Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory, and honor, and power … Amen

LANCELOT ANDREWES (1555~1626)

ROMAN BREVIARY

Sunday April Fifth

GRANT, gracious Father, that I may never dispute the reasonableness of Thy will, but ever close with it, as the best that can happen. Prepare me always for what Thy Providence shall bring fourth. Let me never murmur, be dejected, or impatient, under any of the troubles of this life, but ever find rest and comfort in this, THIS IS THE WILL OF MY FATHER AND OF MY GOD; grant this for Jesus Christ’s sake … Amen

THOMAS WILSON (1663~1755)

O God, the Consolation of all such as be sorrowful, and the Salvation of all them that put their trust in Thee, grant unto us, in this dying life, that peace for which we humbly pray, and hereafter to attain unto everlasting joy in Thy presence, through our Lord Jesus Christ … Amen

ROMAN BREVIARY