from time to time cheerfully and thankfully to withdraw ourselves from worldly concerns, for the purpose of holding more intimate communion with thee our God. O manifest thyself unto us, as thou dost not unto the world; and refresh us with the light of thy countenance, and the tokens of thy love. Prepare us, we beseech thee, for thy approaching Sabbath. Grant that it may be to us all a day of sacred rest, and a season of spiritual comfort and edification. Protect and defend thy Universal Church, and bless thy faithful people, in every part of the world. Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem. Send down, O Lord, upon our Bishops and Curates, and all Con gregations committed to their charge, the healthful Spirit of thy grace; and that they may truly please thee, pour upon them the continual dew of thy blessing. And that there may never be wanting a succession of faithful and able Ministers, to labour in thy Word and Doctrine, let thy blessing rest upon all schools, and seminaries of religious and useful learning; and especially upon the Universities of our land. Grant that many may come forth thence, not only endowed with human wisdom and science, but largely instructed by thy Holy Spirit, that they may be enabled to teach others in the truths of thy Gospel, and to lead them in the way of salvation. Let it please thee to visit the dark places of the earth with the light of thy truth, and to make known the blessings of redemption to all mankind. Grant that the power of Satan may be overthrown, and the kingdoms of the world become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ. May all know thee, from the least to the greatest, and evermore glorify thee both in heart and life. Be pleased to keep and strengthen our most gracious King and Governor in the true worshipping of thee, in righteousness and holiness of life: may he evermore have affiance in thee, and ever seek thy honour and glory; and be thou his defender and keeper, giving him the victory over all his enemies. Bless all our friends and relatives, and those who desire to be remembered in our intercessions. Grant that their souls may prosper and be in health; and give them such temporal blessings as may be most expedient for them. Forgive our enemies, and all who have sought to injure us; enable us to forgive them, and to seek their good. Bind up the broken-hearted; relieve the sick and needy; succour, help, and comfort, all that are in danger, necessity, and tribulation; and have mercy upon the whole race of mankind. We commend ourselves to thy fatherly care and protection this night. May we be invigorated with refreshing rest, and strengthened for the duties of thy own day. Qualify us, we pray thee, for thy faithful service in this world, and prepare us for |