LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. ©far--- iup^i# fa— Shelf. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. L THE Book of Worship. FOR THE USE OF THE UNITED SYNOD OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN THE SOUTH. £jIm** — J,' COLUMBIA. S. C: W. J. DUFF IE 1888. Ths Library of Congress WASHINGTON A3 Copyright, 1888, In trust for the United Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the South. TABLE OF CONTENTS THE COMMON SERVICE. PAGE I. The Preface vii II. Festivals of the Church xiii Immoveable Festivals .... xiii Moveable Festivals xiv A Table of Days on which Eas- ter will fall xiv A Table of Days on which the Moveable Festivals will fall . xv III. Table of Epistles and Gospels xvi IY. Table of Scripture Lessons for the Sundays and Festi- vals xviii Y. Table of Lessons for Morning and Evening throughout the Year xix VI. The Order of Morning Service, or The Communion . . 1 YJI. The Order of Evening Service, or Yespers 17 YIII. The Order of Early Morning Service, or Matins ... 21 IX. Introits and Collects for the Church Year . .' 27 X. Invitatories, Antiphons, Responsories and Yersicles for the Church Year 65 XL Collects and Prayers 76 General . . . . > 76 ! In Time of Affliction and Dis- tress For the Church 77 For the Civil Authorities . . SI In Time of National Calam- ity 82 Thanksgiving Collects .... 85 For Special Gifts and Graces. S6 For an Answer to Praver . . » 92 XII. General Prayers 94 The Litany 94 j Evening Suffrages 103 The Suffrages 9S The Bidding Prayer 104 Morning Suffrages 101 j General Prayers 107 XIII. The Psalms 113 (iii) THE HISTORY OF THE PASSION OE OUR LORD 197 ORDERS EOR MINISTERIAL ACTS- • 217 Baptism of Infants 219 Baptism of Adults 223 Order of Confirmation .... 227 Order of Confession 233 Communion of the Sick . . . 237 Order of Marriage 237 Installation of Church Coun- cil 240 Installation of a Pastor . . . 242 Order for Licensure 248 Order for Ordination 251 Order for Laying trie Corner- stone of a Church 258 Order for the Consecration of a Church 262 Order for Opening Synod . . 269 Order for Closing Synod . . . 271 Burial of the Dead 273 CONFESSIONS OF THE CHURCH. Apostles' Creed 281 Nicene Creed 281 Athanasian Creed 281 The Augsburg Confession Luther's Small Catechism 283 311 A SELECTION OF HYMNS. Order and Subjects of the Hymns . . . Index of First Lines . (Appendix) The Constitution of the United Synod . . (It) 559 561 571 THE COMMON SERVICE FOR THE USE OF EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CONGREGATIONS. BY AUTHORITY OP THE UNITED SYNOD OP THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN THE SOUTH. COLUMBIA, S. C: W.J. DUFFIE 1888. Copyright, 1888, By the Joint Committee, in trust for the General Bodies. All Rights Reserved. PREFACE. THE Common Service here offered for the use of Evangelical Lutheran Congregations has been pre- pared by the joint action of the three General Bodies with which most of the Lutheran Congregations using the English language in public worship are connected. The General Synod South, in 1878, proposed to the General Synod and the General Council, to unite in the prepara- tion of a Common Service Book for all English-speaking Lutherans. The proposal was accepted, and the three Bodies united in establishing the Rule by which those charged with the preparation of the work should be guided, and by which all questions arising should be decided, to wit : " The common consent of the pure Lutheran Liturgies of the Sixteenth Century, and when there is not an entire agreement among them, the consent of the largest number of those of greatest weight." The Lutheran Reformers began early to revise and purify the Service of the Church, and to introduce the language of the people. Luther led the way in this work, in 1523, with his treatises : " Of the Order of Divine Ser- vice in the Congregation," and, later in the same year, his " Form of the Mass and of Communion for the Church at Wittenberg." John Bugenhagen, chief pastor at Witten- berg, published "An Order of Christian Mass, as it is held at Wittenberg, 1524 ;" and in December of that year, Conrad Rupff, the Chapel Master of the Duke of Saxony, and especially his assistant and successor, John Walther, aided Luther in arranging music for the Service in German, and the whole chapel came from Torgau to take part in its introduction. In 1525 Doeber's Evangelical Mass was in- troduced at Nurnberg, and the " Teutsch Kirchenambt," at (Tii) VU1 PREFACE. Strasburg. " The Order of Government and Worship " for the Duchy of Prussia was issued in 1525, that for Brunswick in 1528, that for Hamburg in 1529, and during the next few years, a large number of cities and countries in Germany issued their German Orders of Service. In 1533 three Orders of great importance appeared : that for Brandenburg-Niirnberg ; that for the city and jurisdiction of Wittenberg, which superseded the personal Orders of Luther and Bugenhagen and thereafter was used by them ; and that for the whole Electoral Saxony, in the Visitation Articles. That in the multitude of these works, the directions for the Services of Worship should at first differ from each other, is but natural. But, after a time, these divergencies take a more definite form, and there appears in Saxony and throughout the countries North of it, the most generally accepted type of Lutheran Liturgies. When, after the death of Duke George, the reformation took place in the Duchy of Saxony, Justus Jonas prepared the Order of Govern- ment and Worship, 1539, with the aid of Spalatin, Cruciger and Myconius, and in consultation with all the Saxon theologians, and it became at once and permanently a standard of Lutheran Service. To this class of Lutheran Liturgies belong also those of Mecklenburg, Liineburg, Calenberg, and of many North German cities and States, in their successive editions, in whose preparation Bugen- hagen, Melanchthon, Chemnitz, Andreae, Arndt, and other illustrious men had part. The Common Service here presented is intended to re- produce in English the consensus of these pure Lutheran Liturgies. It is therefore no new Service, such as the personal tastes of those who have prepared it would have selected and arranged ; but it is the old Lutheran Service, prepared by the men whom God raised up to reform the Service, as well as the doctrine and life of the Church, and whom He plenteously endowed with the gifts of the Holy Ghost. The Lutheran Liturgies of the Sixteenth Century were PREFACE. IX not new and original works, created by the Reformers, but they were chiefly revisions of the Services of the Latin Church, with some additions, all however in the language of the people. The Sermon has a greatly increased import- ance, and the purity of doctrine is most carefully guarded ; church-song takes a new flight ; an addition is made here and there, as of the General Prayer, the Exhortation to Communicants, or some other new feature ; but the whole outline and structure of the Service of the Western Church for a thousand years before the Reformation is preserved. Whatever seemed to the Reformers to be contrary to the pure teaching of Holy Scripture was removed, whatever was pure and Scriptural was retained in the old order of parts, and thus the continuous succession of pure Service was unbroken. The whole series of Introits, Collects, Epistles and Gospels, as found in the Common Service, was finally com- pleted, after some centuries of growth, in the reign and domain of Charlemagne, and is found in the Missals of the German and French Provinces of that time. Though differing from the Roman use, it continued in force in Ger- many until the Reformation, and it was finally set aside by the Council of Trent. Of the Sunday Collects, there are but few which have not been in continuous use for more than twelve hundred years. With some difference in the days for which they are appointed, most of these beautiful Collects are now in use in all Roman Catholic Churches, though only in Latin ; in the Lutheran Churches of Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, the United States, and wherever scattered throughout the world ; and in the Church of England throughout the whole empire, as well as in the Protestant Episcopal Church in this country. Here is indeed a Communion of Saints. In the Providence of God, it was allotted to the Lutheran Church, first of all, to revise, purify and translate the Service at the time of the Reformation. She did this im- portant work, not for herself alone, but for all Protestants who retained any parts of the old Service. The Lutheran X PREFACE. Revision of the Communion Service had been issued in many editions, for use in many States and cities, had been fully tested by more than twenty years of continuous use, and had even, at Luther's instigation, been provided with complete music, varied for all the Festivals, for full Choral Service, and issued in a superb folio volume, before the re- vision of the old Service was made by the Anglican Church and issued in the First Prayer Book of Edward VI. There is an extremely close agreement between this first Prayer Book of the Church of England and the Common Service. It is due to these causes. The Sarum and other Anglican Missals, from which the revision and trans- lation was made, agreed almost entirely with the Bamberg, Mainz, and other German Missals, differing with them from the Roman. Archbishop Cranmer, Primate of the Angli- can Church, and head of the commission which prepared the Prayer Book, was intimately acquainted with the Lutheran Service, having spent a year and a half in Germany in conference with theologians and princes, and he was most intimate with Osiander when he was at work on the Brandenburg-Nurnberg Order, in 1532. Two Lutheran Professors were called to the English Universities, and aided in this work, one of whom, Bucer, had with Melanchthon and others prepared the Revised Order of Cologne, 1543. And finally, during the years from 1535 to 1549, there had been constantly recurring embassies and conferences between the Anglican and Lutheran divines and rulers. It is therefore not at all strange that the first and best Service Book of the Church of England should have so closely followed the Lutheran use as to present very few divergencies from it. And should that Church and her daughters return to the use of the Book of Edward VI., as many of her most learned and devout members have ever wished, there would be an almost entire harmony in the Services of Worship between the two daughters of the Reformation, who both have purified and then have pre- served the Services of the Christian Church of the olden time. PREFACE. XI This Common Service is in its newest parts as old as the time of the Reformation ; in its order and in the great body of its contents, it represents the pure Service of the Chris- tian Church of the West from the earliest times ; it em- braces all the essentials of worship from the establishment of the Christian Church on earth ; and it has given expres- sion to the devotions of countless millions of believers, throughout many generations. It can lay claim, as no other Order of Service now in use can, to be the Common Service of the Christian Church of all ages. It can reason- ably be tendered to all Protestants, who use a fixed order, as the Service of the future, as it is of the past. But no Order of Service, however pure, ancient, or widely observed, can be made absolutely binding on the Congregation. The ordering of the Services of Worship has been placed by Christ in the liberty of the Church, under the guidance of the Holy Ghost. On this subject our Confessions are very clear. " Unto the true unity of the Church, it is sufficient to agree concerning the doctrine of the Gospel and the administration of the Sacraments. Nor is it necessary that human traditions, rites, or cere- monies instituted by men, should be alike everywhere." Augsburg Confession, Art. VII. " We believe that the true unity of the Church is not injured by dissimilar rites, instituted by men. Although it is pleasing to us that, for the sake of unity and good order, universal rites be ob- served." Apology, Cliap. IV. S3. " We believe, teach, and confess, that the Church of God of every place and every time has the power, according to its circumstances, to change such ceremonies, in such manner as may be most useful and edifying to the Church of God." Formula of Concord, I, Chap. X. J^. " We reject and condemn as wrong when these ordinances of men are urged by force upon the Con- gregation of God as necessary." II. CJiap. X. 27. On the other hand, our Confessors are equally clear in affirming their belief that such ancient Services as were pure should be retained. " But we cheerfully maintain the old tradi- tions made in the Church for the sake of usefulness and tran- Xll PREFACE. quillity ; and our enemies falsely accuse us of abolishing good ordinances." Apology, VI'IL 38, 39. And they showed the sincerity of this conviction practically, by their revision of the old Services, and the establishment of the revised order in every Lutheran land and city. In agreement with this principle and practice, the Gen- eral Bodies which have prepared the Common Service, commend it to all Lutheran Congregations. But at the same time they declare that they dare not make any order of service binding on the congregation, and that no Order of Service should be used any longer than it serves to edifi- cation. They have agreed to furnish the full Lutheran Service, with all its provisions, for all who wish to use it. But they also declare, that if, at any time or place, the use of the full Service is not desired, it is in entire conformity with good Lutheran usage to use a simpler Service, in which only the principal parts, in their order, are contained. This Service has, during its preparation, received the ap- proval of those connected with the several General Bodies engaged in it, with a remarkable unanimity. There seems to be a strong desire for this bond of union ; a general wish for the restoration of the pure Services of our Fathers ; a hearty consent to the principles which ruled them in their revision of the old Services ; a longing for unity in the ser- vices of worship between all believers ; and a conviction that a historic Service furnishes the only basis of such agree- ment. This Common Service of the Reformers may well be placed by the side of the Confession of Augsburg, the one the Central Service, the other the Central Confession, of the Protestant Churches. We would gladly behold the day when the One, Holy, Catholic, Christian Church, shall use one Order of Service, and unite in one Confession of Faith. Holy Week, 1888. FESTIVALS OF THE CHURCH. IMMOVEABLE FESTIVALS. Chief Festivals. Christmas, or the Nativity of our Lord December 25. The Circumcision of Christ, and New Year's Day . . January 1. The Epiphany, or the Manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles January 6. The Festival of the Reformation . . . . October 31. Minor Festivals, observed in some parts op the lutheran church. St. Andrew the Apostle's Day November 30. St. Thomas the Apostle's Day December 21. St. Stephen the Martyr's Day December 26. St. John the Apostle's Day December 27. The Conversion of St. Paul January 25. The Presentation of Christ February 2. St. Matthias the Apostle's Day February 24. The Annunciation March 25. St. Philip and St. James the Apostles' Day May 1. The Birthday of St. John the Baptist June 24. St. Peter and St. Paul the Apostles' Day June 29. The Visitation July 2. St. James the elder, the Apostle's Day July 25. St. Bartholomew the Apostle's Day August 24, St. Matthew the Apostle's Day . . September 21. St. Michael the Archangel's Day September 29. St. Simon and St. Jude the Apostles' Day ...... October 28. (xiii) II: MOVEABLE FESTIVALS. RULES To find the Moveable Festivals. The Moveable Festivals all depend upon Easter except Advent. Advent Sunday is always the nearest Sunday to the thirtieth day of November ', whether before or after. Easter is always the first Sunday after the Full Moon which hap- pens upon, or next after the twenty-first day of March; and if the Full Moon happen upon a Sunday, Easter is the Sunday after. The time of Easter being found, the other Festivals occur as follows : Septuagesima Sunday is nine weeks before Easter. Ash Wednesday , or the beginning of Lent, is forty-six days before Easter. Palm Sunday, or the beginning of Holy Week, is eight days before Easter. Holy Thursday is the Thursday before Easter. Good Friday is the Friday before Easter. Ascension Day is forty days after Easter. Whitsunday is seven weeks after Easter. Trinity Sunday is eight weeks after Easter. A Table of the Days < 3N which Easter will fall from 1888-2003. 1888. April 1 1917. April 8,1946. April 2U1975. March 30 1889. n 21 1918. March 31 1947. " 611976. April 18 1890. a 6 1919. April 20 1948. March 28J1977. " 10 1891. March 29 1920. it 4 1949. April 17 1978. March 26 1892. April 17 1921. March 27 1950. " 9 1979. April 15 1893. tt 2 1922. April 16 1951. March 25 1980. " 6 1894. March 25 1923. a 1 1952. April 13 1981. " 19 1895. April 14 1924. it 20 1953. " 5 1982. " 11 1896. K 5 1925. a 12 1954. " 18 1983. " 3 1897. tt 18 1926. a 4 1955. " 10 1984. " 22 1898. it 10 1927. a 17 1956. " 1 1985. " 7 1899. ti 2 1928. a 8 1957. " 21 1986. March 30 1900. a 15 1929. March 31 1958. " 6 1987. April 19 1901. a 7 1930. April 20 1959. March 29 1988. " 3 1902. March 30 1931. n 5 1960. April 17 1989. March 26 1903. April 12 1932. March 27 1961. " 2 1990. April 15 1904. a 3 1933. April 16 1962. " 22 1991. March 31 1905. a 23 1934. u 1 1963. " 14 1992. April 19 1906. a 15 1935. a 21 1964. March 29 1993. " 11 1907. March 31 1936. a 12 1965. April 18 1994. " 3 1908. April 19 1937. March 28 1966. " 10 1995. " 16 1909. i< 11 1938. April 17 1967. March 26 1996. 7 1910. March 27 1939. it 9 1968. April 14 1997. March 30 1911. April 16 1940. March 24 1969. " 6 1998. April 12 1912. tt 7 1941. April 13 1970. March 29 1999. " 4 1913. March 23 1942. it 5 1971. April 11 2000. " 23 1914. April 12 1943. a 25 1972. " 2 2001. " 15 1915. a 4 1944. it 9 1973. " 22 2002. March 31 1916. a 23 1945. a 1 1974. " 14 2003. April 20 (xir) A Table of the Moveable Festivals, According to the several days that Easter can possibly fall upon. * k* <3 k> PL, 03 k» c3 Ul Easter. (0 o2 s r a co CD o3 ft ^ CD Vh 0* c5 CO CD g3 *02 a> T3 cd a .2 TJ £ > &• T3 fl 1? "en DQ IS ka co 3 □Q ST m < co & 5 E March 22 1 Jan. 18 Feb. 4 April 30 May 10 27 Nov. 29 a 23 1 a 19 (< 5 May 1 a 11 27 a 30 a 24 1 a 20 a 6 a 2 a 12 27 Dec. 1 a 25 2 It 21 a 7 it 3 a 13 27 a 2 u 26 2 U 22 tt 8 it 4 a 14 27 a 3 a 27 2 a 23 it 9 a 5 tt 15 26 Xov. 27 tt 28 2 a 24 a 10 ci 6 it 16 2G a 28 a 29 2 a 25 tt 11 a 7 a 17 26 a 29 a 30 2 u 26 a 12 a 8 a 18 26 a 30 tt 31 2 a 27 a 13 it 9 a 19 26 Dec. 1 April 1 3 a 28 tt 14 a 10 u 20 26 a 2 a 2 3 a 29 a 15 a 11 a 21 26 a 3 a 3 3 a 30 " 16 a 12 a 22 25 Xov. 27 a 4 3 a 31 « 17 it 13 a 23 25 a 28 a 5 3 Feb. 1 " 18 u 14 a 24 25 a 29 it G 3 a 2 " 19 a 15 a '25 25 a 30 a 7 3 a 3 a 20 a 16 a 26 25 Dec. 1 u 8 4 a 4 a 21 tt 17 a 27 25 a 2 It 9 4 a 5 " 22 tt 18 a 28 25 a 3 a 10 4 a 6 « 23 a 19 a 29 24 Xov. 27 a 11 4 a 7 a 24 a 20 a 30 24 a 28 ti 12 4 a 8 a 25 a 21 a 31 24 a 29 a 13 4 a 9 « 26 a 22 June 1 24 a 30 a 14 4 a 10 a 27 a 23 a 2 24 Dec. 1 u 15 5 a 11 a 28 a 24 a 3 24 a 2 a 1G 5 a 12 Mar. 1 a 25 a 4 24 a 3 u 17 5 a 13 a 2 a 26 a 5 23 Xov. 27 a 18 5 a 14 a 3 it 27 it 6 23 a 28 u 19 5 a 15 a 4 a 28 it 7 23 a 29 a 20 5 c< 16 (( 5 a 29 a 8 23 i't 30 a 21 5 tt 17 a 6 a 30 (( 9 23 Dec. 1 it '22 6 a 18 tt 7 a 31 a 10 23 a 2 u 23 6 a 19 tt 8 June 1 a 11 23 a n O a 24 6 K 20 a 9 a 2 a 12 22 Xov. 27 a 25 6 (( 21 a 10 a 3 a 13 22 a 28 *In a Leap Year, the number of Sundays after Epiphany is the same as if Easter had fallen one day later than it really does ; and Septuagesima Sunday and Ash "Wednesday fall one day later than that given in the Table, unless the Table gives some day in March for Ash Wednesday: for in that case the day in the table is right. Table of the Epistles and Gospels For the Sundays and Festivals of the Church - Year. Sundays and Chief Festivals. Sundays in Advent. 1 2 3 4 Epistles. Romans- -xiii. 11-14. — xv. 4-13 Christmas Day, 2 Sunday after Christmas, New Yearns Day, Sunday after New Year, Epiphany, 1 Corinthians-iv. 1-5. |Philippians iv. 4-7. |Tit.ii.ll-14:Isa.ix.2-7. Tit. iii. 4-7. Galatians iv. 1-7. iii. 23-29. -iv. 12-19. — lx. 1-6. Sundays after Epiphany. 1 2 3 4 5 6 SepAuagesima Sunday, — Sexagesima Sunday, Quinquagesima Sunday, Ash Wednesday, Sundays in Lent. 1 Invocavit, 2 Reminiscere, 3 Oculi, 4 Laetare, 5 Judica, 6 Palmarum, Monday in Holy Week, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, — Mont Sundays after Easter. 1 Quas-imodogeniti, — 2 Miser icordias, 3 Jubilate, 4 Cantate, 5. Rogate, Ascension Day, Sunday after Ascension, Whitsunday, Monday, Trinity Sunday, Sundays after Trinity. 1 1 Peter Isaiah - Romans- Colossians- 2 Peter xii. 1-5. xii. 6-16. a xii. 16-21. b xiii. 8-]0. -iii. 12-17. — i. 16-21. 1 Corinthians ix.24-x. 5. 2 xi. 19-xii.9. 1 xiii. 1-13. Joel ii. 12-19. 2 Corinthians vi. 1-10. 1 Thessalonians iv.1-7. Ephesians v. 1-9. Galatians — iv. 21-31. Hebrews ix. 11-15. Philippians ii. 5-11. Isaiah 1. 5-10. Jeremiah — xi. 18-20. Isaiah lxii.ll; lxiii.1-7. 1 Corinthians xi.23-32. Isaiah — HL 13-liii. 12. 1 Corinthians — v. 6-8. Acts x. 34-41. 1 John 1 Peter >v. 4-12. James -ii. 21-25. -ii. 11-20. -i. 16-21. — i. 22-27. — i. 1-11. — iv. 7-ll. e — ii. 1-13, x. 42-48. f Romans xi. 33-36. 1 John iv. 16-21.S Acts — 1 Peter- Acts — Gospels. Matthew xxi. 1-9. Luke xxi. 25-36. Matthew xi. 2-10. John i. 19-28. Luke ii. 1-14. ii. 15-20. ii. 33-40. ii. 21. -ii. 13-23. -ii. 1-12. ■ ii.41-52. -ii. 1-11. Matthew- Luke — John Matthew— viii. 1-13. viii. 23-27. xiii. 24-30. xvii. 1-9. xx. 1-16. Luke- viii. 4-15. xviii. 31-43. Matthew— vi. 16-21. Luke- John- — iv. 1-11. -xv. 21-28. — xi. 14-28. — vi. 1-15. -viii. 46-59. Matthew- — xxi. 1-9. John xii. 1-23. xii. 24-43. Lukexxii. l-xxiii.42. John xiii. 1-15. John xviii. 1-xix. 42, Mark xvi. 1-8. Luke xxiv. 13-35. John xx. 19- x. 11- xvi. 16- xvi. 5- xvi. 23- Mark- -xvi. 14- John — xv. 26-xvi xiv. 23-: iii. 16- iii. 1- 31. 16. 23. c 15. 30. d 20. . 4. 31. 21. 15. Luke xvi. 19-31, a End : " men of low estate." d Begin : " Verily, verily, I say." b Begin : " Be not wise in your e " " Be ye therefore sober." own conceits." f End : " in the name of the Lord." c End : " ye shall ask me nothing." « Begin : " God is love." xvi Table of the Epistles and Gospels — Continued. Sundays and Chief Festivals. 2 Sunday after Trinity 3 5- 6- 7- 8- 9- 10- 11- 12- 13- 14- 15- 16- 17- 18- 19- 20- 21- 22- 23- 24. 25- 26- 27- Epistles. Gospels. iii. 13-18. —v. 6-11. 1 John - 1 Peter ■ Romans Yiii. 18-23. 1 Peter iii. 8-15. h Romans vi. 3-11. Yi. 19-23. Yiii. 12-17. Luke- 1 Corinthians x. 6-13. xii. 1-11. xy. 1-10. 2 iii. 4-11. Galatians— iii. 15-22. y. 16-24. y. 25-Yi. 10. Matthew- Mark Matthew- Luke -xiY. 16-24. — xy. 1-10. — Yi. 36-42. y. 1-11. — y. 20-26. — Yiii. 1-9. Mark- Luke- Ephesians — iii. 13-21. iv. 1-6. 1 Corinthians — i. 4-9. Ephesians— iv. 22-28. v. 15-21. vi. 10-17. Philippians i. 3-11. iii. 17-21. — i. 9-14. ■iv. 13-18. Colossians- 1 Thess.— 2 Peter iii. 3-14, or 2 Thess. 1 Thess. 3-10. 1-11. -vii. 15-23. xvi. 1-9. ■ xix. 41-48. • xviii. 9-14. -vii. 31-37. x. 23-37. -xvii. 11-19. Matthew— vi. 24-34. Lnke vii. 11-17. xiv. 1-11. Matthew xxii. 34-46. ix. 1-8. xxii. 1-14. John iv. 46-54. 1 Matthew xviii. 23-35. xxii. 15-22. ix. 18-26. xxiv. 15-28. xxv. 31-46. xxv. 1-13. h End : " sanctify the Lord God in your hearts." 1 Begin : "And there was a certain nobleman." Apostles 7 Days and other Minor Festivals, Observed in some parts of the Lutheran Church. Minor Festival Days. Epistles. St. Andrew the Apostle, — St. Thomas the Apostle, — St. Stephen the Martyr, St. John the Apostle, The Conversion of St. Paul. The Presentation of Christ. St. Matthias the Apostle, The Annunciation. Si. Philip § St. James, Apos. St. John the Baptist, St. Peter $ St. Paul, Apos. The Visitation. St. James the elder, Apostle, St. Bartholomew the Apostle. St. Matthew the Apostle, St. Michael the Archangel, St. Simon fySt.Jude, Apos. jRomans x. 10-18, Ephesians i. 3-6, Acts — vi. 8-vii. 60, 1 John i. 1-10, Acts ix. 1-22, Malachi Acts — Isaiah— iii. 1-4, — i. 15-26, ■vii. 10-16, Ephesians — ii. 19-22 jlsaiah xl. 1-5, lActs xii. 1-11, Isaiah xi. 1-5, Romans — viii. 28-39, 2Corinthians iv.7-10, Ephesians — iv. 7-14, Revelation xii. 7-12, ll Peter -i. 3-9, Gospels. Matthew- John -iv. 18-22. -xx. 24-31. Matthew xxiii. 34-39. John xxi. 19-24. Matthew xix. 27-30. Luke ii. 22-32. Matthew — xi. 25-30. Luke i. 26-38. John xiv. 1-14. Luke i. 57-80. Matthew-xvi. 13-20. Luke- — — i. 39-56. Matthew— xx. 20-33. Luke xxii. 24-30. Matthew ix. 9-13. xviii. 1-11. -xv. 17-21. John XY1I Harvest Festival Reformation, Thanksgivin Humiliation — iii, 11-26 — iv, 1-22 iv, 23-31 iv, 32— v, 11. v. 12-42 vi, 1-7. - vii, 51-60. - viii, 9-25. - viii, 26-39 ix. 1-22. 21— xi, 18. xiv, 1-20. xvi, 13-40. xvii, 15-34. xviii, 1-11. xix, 1-11. xx, 17 xxiv, 10-27. xxvi, 1-29. xxviii, 1 31. ii, 1-11. iii, 1-22. vii, 9-17. xx, 11-15. xxii, 6-21. vi, 6-10. ii, 16 21. cxlv. cxxx. xxiii, 7, 12. xxiv, 14-28. ii, 1-12. i, 1-17. iii, 1-18. x, 17-27. xv, 16-23. xxiv, 2-22. vii, 1-16 vii, 17-29. xii. 1-10. xiii, 1-7. iii, 5-15 vii, 12 22 xiii, 3-18. 1 Kings xviii, 21-40, xix, 4-18. 2 Kings v, 1-14 Jonah 2 Chr. Dan. Ezra Mai. Deut. 2 Chr. Ps. 1— iv. 11 xxxii, 1-21 xxxiv, 14 xxxvi, 11-21. ii, 31-48. iii. 10-13. iii, 1-5, xxvi, 1-11, xxxiv, 29-33 xcv, 1-8 lxxxv Isa. iv. 2-6. Eze. xxxiv, 11-16. Hosea ii, 18-23. Isa. xlix, 8-15. Ps. lxxxvi. — ex. Isa. xxxii, 14-20. Joel ii, 28-32. Eze. xxxvi, 25-28. Isa. vi, 1-8. Ps. lxii. Job xxxvi, 26 — xxxvii, 13 Eze. xviii, 20-24. Ps. ciii. Lam. iii, 22-40. Ps. xci. Eccles. iii, 1-17. Ps. cxix, 105-112. liii. Jer. viii, 4' Eze. xiii, 9-16. Prov. ix, 1-18. Job xxxviii, 1-11. Prov. iii, 1-16. Deut. vi, 4-13. Jer. xvii, 5-10. Lev. xix, 9-18. Deut. xxi, 18-21. xxiv, 17-22. Prov. vi, 6-11. xxiii, 19-35. xxiv, 13-22. Ec. xi. 9— xii, 14. Prov. xxx, 1-14. Mai. iii, 13— iv. 6. Deut. xxxii, 21-43. Ps. xcii. lxv. xlvi. Ixxviii. Isa. i, 16-18. (xviii) A Table of Lessoxs for Morning and Evening Throughout the Year. The Lessons appointed for days between the Fourth Sunday in Advent and the First Sunday after Epiphany, are to be omitted when the days for which they are appointed do not occur. When there are not Six Sundays after Epiphany, the Lessons for the week after the First Sunday may be omitted one year ; and those which follow another Sunday, the second year : and so on : in order that in the course of several years all the Lessons provided may be read. The Lessons appointed for the days from the Twentieth Sunday after Trinity to the end of the year are to be read in every year, and those appointed for the weeks before the Twentieth Sunday after Trinity are to be omitted so far as is necessary to this end. Days. Homing. Evening. First Sunday in Advent. Monday . ., Tuesday Wednesday Matthew xi. 25-30. Acts iii. 22-26. Colossians i. 15-29. Hebrews i. 1-4. Hebrews ii. 1-4. Ephesians iii. 1-12. Genesis iii. 1-24. Genesis ix. 1-19. Genesis xxii. 1-19. Genesis xlix. 1-28. Numbers xxi v. 14-25. Deuteronomy xviii. 15-19. Thursday Fridav Saturday Second Sunday in Advent. Mod da v Acts xvii. 16-34. 1 John iv. 9-16. Colossians i. 1-8. Philippiansii. 12-18. Philippiansiii. 12-16. Colossians iii. 1-11. 1 Chronicles xvii. 1-27. 2 Chronicles yii. 11-22. Isaiah xi. 1-10. j Jeremiah xxiii. 2-8. j Jeremiah xxx. 1-22. Jeremiah xxxiii. 14-26. Tuesday "Wednesday Thursday Fridav Saturday Third Sunday in Advent. Mondav Hebrews x. 35-39. Luke xxi. 5-24. Luke xii. 35-59. James v. 7-11. ! Isaiah ii. 1-5. Isaiah xxiy. 21-xxy. 5. Isaiah xxv. 6-10. Isaiah xxyi. 1-21. Isaiah li. 1-16. Isaiah Iii. 1-12. Tuesday Wednesday Thursday . . Friday Saturday Luke i. 1-25. i Luke i. 26-38. Fourth Sunday in Advent. Monday Matthew i. 1S-25. Isaiah xl. 1-11. Malachi iii.1-7. Malachi iv. 1-6. Isaiah xxviii. 14-19. Isaiah yii. 1-17. Micah y. 1-15. Tuesday Luke i. 39-45. Luke i. 46-56. Luke i. 57-66. Luke i. 67-80. Matthew i. 1-17. Wednesday Thursday Friday . ". Saturday Dec. 27 John i. 1-5-18. Luke ii. 15-20. Luke ii. 22-24. Luke ii. 25-32. Matthew ii. 13-15. Matthew ii. 16-18. Matthew ii. 19-23. Matthew iii. 1-12 Luke iii. 1-9. i Micah Isaiah Isaiah Isaiah Isaiah Isaiah Isaiah Isaiah Isaiah iv. 1-8. xxxii. 1-8. xlvi.3 -13. xlix. 1-13. Iv. 1-13. xlii. 1-9. lxi. 1-11. lvi. 1-8. xii. 1-6. Dec. 2S Dec. 29 Dec. 30 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Jan. 4 Jan. 5 Epiphany. Monday • . Luke iii. 10-14. ! Luke iii. 15-20.: Mark i. 1-8.! Mark i. 9-11. Luke iii. 21, 22. Luke iii. 23-38.' Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis i. 1-31. ii. 1-25. iy. 1-26. y. 1-32. yi. 9-22. vii. 1-24. { Tuesday Thursday " Friday . ". Saturday XIX Days. 1 Sunday after Epiphany. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday . 2 Sunday after Epiphany. Monday . Tuesday • . . , Wednesday , Thursday , Friday Saturday ... Morning. Evening. John John John Luke Mark Matthew i. 29-34. i. 35-42. i. 43-51. iv. 1-13. i. 12-15. iv. 12-17. 3 Sunday after Epiphany. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday , Friday , Saturday 4 Sunday after Epiphany. Monday , Tuesday Wednesday ........ Thursday , Friday Saturday 5 Sunday after Epiphany. Monday . , Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 6 Sunday after Epiphany. Monday , Tuesday , Wednesday . Thursday Friday , Saturday Septuagesima Sunday. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday ...... Friday Saturday Sexagesima Sunday. Monday Tuesday Wednesday .... Thursday Friday Saturday QUINQUAGESIMA SUNDAY. Monday ........ Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Matthew Matthew Matthew (Matthew Matthew Matthew iv. 18-25. v. 1-19. v. 27-48. vi. 1-23. vii. 1-14. vii. 24-29. j Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis Matthew viii. 14-22. Matthew viii. 28-34.1 Matthew ix. 9-17. Matthew ix. 27-38. Matthew x. 1-16. Matthew x. 17-xi. 1. xi. 11- xii. 1- Matthew Matthew Matthew xii. 22 Matthew xiii. 1 Matthew Matthew xiv. 1 xv. 1- Matthew xv. 29- Matthew xvi. 1- Matthew xvi. 21- Matthew xvii. 9- Matthew xix. 1- Matthew xx. 17- Matthew xxi. 10-46. Matthew xxiii. 1-39. Mark i. 16-45. Mark ii. 1-28. Mark iii. 1-35. Mark v. 1-20. Mark Mark Mark Mark Mark Mark v. 21-43. vi. 1-29. vi. 30-56. vii. 1-30. viii. 10-ix. 1. ix. 2-32. viii. 1-22. xi. 1-9. xii. 1-20. xiii. 1-18. xiv. 8-24. xv. 1-21. Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis xvii. 1-22. xviii. 1-33. xix. 1-29. xxi. 1-8. xx iv. 1-28. xxiv. 29-67. Genesis xxv. 19-34. Genesis xxvii. 1-45. Gen. xxvii. 46-xxviii. 22. Genesis xxix. 1-20. Genesis xxxi. 1-18. Genesis xxxii. 3-32. Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis xxxiii. 1-20. xxxv. 1-21. xxxvii. 1-36. xxxix. 1-23. xl. 1-23. xii. 1-37. Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis Genesis xii. 38-57. xiii. 1-38. xiiii. 1-34. xliv. 1-34. xiv. 1-28. xlvi. 1-34. Genesis Genesis Exodus Exodus Exodus Exodus xlvii. 1-31. xlviii. 1-22. i. 1-22. ii. 1-25. iii. 1-22. iv. 1-31. Exodus Exodus Exodus Exodus Exodus Exodus v. 1-23. vi. 1-13. xi. 1-10. ^xii. 1-28. xii. 29-42. xiii. 1-22. Mark Mark Mark Mark Luke Luke x. 1-31.' Exodus x. 32-52. Exodus xi. 1-33. Exodus xii. 13-44. iv. 14-44. v. 12-39. Luke Luke Luke vii 1-10. Luke vii. 18-viu. 3. Luke viii. 1 >-*-6. Luke ix. 1-27. Exodus Exodus Exodus xiv. 1-31. xv. 1-21. xv. 22-xvi. 36. xvii. 1-16. xix. 1-25. xx. 1-23. vi. 1-35.1 Exodus xxiv. 1-xxv. 9. vi. 43-49.I lExodus xxxi.l 8-xxxii. 35. Exodus xxxiii. 1-23. Exodus xxxiv. 1-10. Exodus xxxiv. 27-35. Exodus xl. 1-38. XX A Table op Lessons for Morning and Evening. Days. Morning. Evening. First Sunday in Lent. Monday Luke ix. 28-62, Luke x. 1-22. Luke x. 38-xi 13 Numbers iii. 5—13. Tuesday Numbers x. 11-36. Thursday . . Luke xi. 29-36. Luke xi. 37-54. Luke xii. 1-34. Numbers xii. 1—15. Friday Saturday Numbers xiii. 1-25. Numbers xiii. 26—33 Second Sunday in Lent. Monday Luke xiii 1-17 Numbers xiv 1-45 Tuesday Luke xiv. 25-35. Luke xv. 11-32. Luke xvi. 10-18. Luke xvii. 1-10. Luke xviii. 1-8. Numbers xvi. 1-22. Wednesday • . . Thursday Numbers xvi. 23-50. Numbers xvii. 1-13. Friday Saturday . . Numbers xx. 1-29. Numbers xxi. 1-xxii. 1. Third Sunday in Lent. Monday Luke xviii. 15-30 Luke xix. 1-40. Luke xx. 1-xxi. 4. Luke xxi.37-xxii.38. Luke xxii. 39-71. Luke xxiii. 1-25. Numbers xxii. 2-41. Tuesday Numbers xxiii. 1-30. Wednesday Numbers xxiv. 1-13. Thursday > . Friday Numbers xxvii. 12-23. iDeuteronomy v. 1-33. Deuteronomy viii. 1-20. Saturday Fourth Sunday in Lent. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday . Luke xxiii. 26-56. Matthew xxvi. 1-35. Matthew xxvi.36-75. Matthewxxvii.39-66. Mark xiv. 1-31 Deuteronomy ix. 1-29. jDeuteronomy x. 1-22. jDeuteronomy xi. 1-32. jDeuteronomy xxviii. 1-14. Deuteronomy xxviii. 15-68. jDeuteronomy xxxiv. 1-12. Fifth Sunday in Lent. Monday Tuesday Mark xiv. 32-72. Mark xv. 1-19. Mark xv. 20-47. John xii. 1-19. John xii.20-50. John xiii. 16-38. Jeremiah ii. 1-19. Hosea xiii. 9-14. Wednesday Thursday Friday Zephaniah iii 1-8. Micah iii. 9-12. Isaiah lxvi. 1-9. Saturday Zechariah ix. 1-17. Palm Sunday. Monday John xviii. 1-18.; John xviii. 19-40.; John xix. 1-12.! John xix. 13-24/ John xix. 25-37. Lam. ii. 8-15. Jeremiah vii. 1—15. Tuesday Isaiah 1. 4-11. Wednesday Thursday Jeremiah xi. 18-23. Zechariah iii. 1-10. Good Friday Lam. ii. 8-15. Isaiah Iii. 13-15. Easter. Easter Monday Tuesday John xx. 1-18. Luke xxiv. 1-12. Luke xxiv. 36-49. Mark xvi. 9-14. Ezekiel xxi. 25-27. Wednesday Haggai ii. 20-23. Zechariah vi. 9-15. Thursday Friday Ezekiel xvii. 22-24. Saturday Isaiah xliv. 21-28. First Sunday after Easter. Monday John xxi. 1-25 John ii. 12-25. John iii. 22-36. John iv. 1-27. John iv. 28-38 John iv. 39-45. Jonah i. 1-16. Tuesday Jonah i. 17-ii. 10. Wednesday Jonah iii. 1-10. Thursday Friday Jonah iv. 1-11. Isaiah xxxiii. 2-6. Saturday Isaiah xiii. 10-17. Second Sunday after Easter. Monday John v. 1-17. John v. 18-30. John v. 31-47. John vi. 16-29. John vi. 30-40. Micah ii. 12, 13. Tuesday Isaiah xxx. 19-26. Wednesday Jeremiah iii. 11-19. Thursday . . Friday Ezekiel xxxiv. 1-11. Ezekiel xxxiv. 12-22. Saturday Ezekiel xxxiv. 23-31. XXI A Table of Lessons for Morning and Evening. Days. Third Sunday after Easter, Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Fourth Sunday after Easter Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday .... Fifth Sunday after Easter. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Ascension Day. Friday Saturday Sunday after Ascension. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Whitsunday. Monday. Tuesday . . Wednesday Thursday . Friday . . . Saturday . . Trinity Sunday. Monday .... Tuesday .... Wednesday . . Thursday . . . Friday Saturday .... First Sunday after Trinity Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Second Sunday after Trinity Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Third Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday xxii Morning. John John John John John John vi. 60-71. vii. 1-13. vii. 14-24. vii. 25-36. vii. 37-53. viii. 1-11. John John John John John John viii. 12-20. viii. 21-29. viii. 30-45. ix. 1-13. ix. 14-34. ix. 35-41. John x. 1-5. John x. 6-10. Matt, xxviii. 16-20. Luke Acts xxiv. 50-53 i. 12-26 John John John John John John x. 17-21. x. 22-31. x. 32-42. xi. 1-27. xi. 28-44. xi. 45-57. Acts Acts John John ii. 14-36. ii. 37-47. xiv. 1-22. xv. 1-25. John xvi. 31-xvii. 26. Acts Acts Acts Acts Acts Acts iii. 1-21 iv. 1-37 v. 1-42. vi. 1-15 vii. 1-60 viii. 1-40. j^cts Acts Acts Acts Acts Acts ix. 1-43. x. 1-33, xi. 1-30. xii. 1-25 xiii. 1-52 xiv. 1-28 Acts Acts Acts Acts Acts Acts xv. 1-41. xvi. 1-40. xvii. 1-15. xviii. 1-28. xix. 1-41. xx. 1-38. Acts xxi. 1-39. Acts xxi. 40-xxii.29. Actsxxii.30-xxiii.35 Acts xxiv. 1-27. Acts xxv. 1-27. Acts xxvi. 1-32. Evening. Ezekiel Ezekiel Ezekiel Haggai Zechariah Zechariah Zechariah Isaiah Isaiah Jeremiah Zechariah Isaiah Amos Isaiah Isaiah Micah Micah Zechariah Zechariah Isaiah Jeremiah Isaiah Isaiah Ezekiel Isaiah Isaiah Jeremiah Isaiah Joshua Joshua Joshua Joshua Joshua Joshua Joshua Joshua Joshua Joshua Judges Judges Judges Judges Judges Judges Judges 1 Samuel 1 Samuel 1 Samuel 1 Samuel 1 Samuel 1 Samuel 1 Samuel xxxvi. 1-15. xxxvi. 16-32. xxxvi. 33-38. ii. 2-9. ii. 1-13. xi. 1-17. xii. 1-13. lxv. 1-7. lxv. 8-16. viii. 4-13. viii. 18-23. xlix. 22-26. ix. 8-15. iv. 2-6. xxix. 18-24. vii. 7-13. vii. 14-20. xiii. 7-9. xiv. 1-21. lxvi. 10-24. xlvi. 27, 28. xxxii. 9-20. lvii. 15-21. xlvii. 1-12. xiv. 18-21. xiv. 22-25. ix. 23-26. xliv. 6-8. i. 1-18. iii. 1-17. iv. 1-24. vi. 1-27. viii. 1-35. ix. 1-27. x. 1-15. xi. 1-23. xxiii. 1-16. xxiv. 1-31. ii. 1-23. vi. 1-40. vii. 1-25. xiii. 1-25. xiv. 1-20. xv. 1-20. xvi. 4-31. i. 1-28. ii. 1-21. iii. 1-21. iv. 1-22. v. 1-12. vii. 1-17. viii. 1-22. A Table of Lessons for Morning and Evening. Dayt Morning. 4th Sunday after Trinity. Monday [Acts Tuesday lActs Wednesday j Romans Thursday | Romans Friday . \ Romans Saturday Romans Evening. xxvii. 1-44. 1 Samuel xxviii. 1-31. 1 Samuel i. 1-15. i. 16-32. ii. 1-29. iii. 1-31. 1 Samuel 1 Samuel 1 Samuel 1 Samuel ix. 1-27. x. 1-27. xii. 1-25. xiii. 1-14. xv. 1-35. xvi. 1-23. 5th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday . i Romans . I Romans . Romans . Romans . Romans . Romans iv. 1-25. 6th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday! v. 1-vi. 2. 1 Samuel 1 Samuel vi. 12-18. 1 Samuel vii. 1-25. 1 Samuel yiii. 1-11. 1 Samuel xiii. 1-7. 1 Samuel xvii. 1-58. xviii. 1-21. xix. 1-24. xx. 1-42. xxii. 1-23. xxiv. 1-22. 7th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 8th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 9th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday . Saturday Romans xiv. 1-xv. 3. Romans xv. 14-33. Romans ICor. ICor. ICor. xvi. 1-27. i. 10-31. ii. 1-16. iv. 6-v. 5. 1 Samuel 1 Samuel 1 Samuel 2 Samuel 2 Samuel 2 Samuel xxvi. 1-25. xxviii. 3-25. xxxi. 1-13. i. 1-27. v. 1-25. vi. 1-23. 1 Cor. ICor. 1 Cor. 1 Cor. 1 Cor. 1 Cor. v. 9-vi. 20. "1 Chronicles vii. 1-40. viii. 1-13. ix. 1-23. x. 14-33. xi. 1-22. 2 Samuel 2 Samuel 2 Samuel 2 Samuel 2 Samuel xvi. 1-43. vii. 1-29. xii. 1-23. xv. 1-15. xvi. 5-35. xviii. 1-13. 1 Cor. xii. 12-31. 2 Samuel xix. 1-23. 1 Cor. xiv. 1-40. 1 Chronicles xxi. 1-30. 1 Cor. xv. 58-xvi. 24. 1 Chronicles xxii. 1-19. 2 Corinthians i. 1-24. 1 Chronicles xxviii. 1-21. 2 Cor. ii. 1— iii. 3. 1 Chronicles xxix. 1-23. 2 Cor. vi. 11-vii. 16.; 2 Chronicles i. 1-13. 2 Cor. viii. 1-24. 1 Kings iii. 16-28. 2 Cor. ix. 1-15. 1 Kings iv. 22-34. 2 Cor. x. 1-18. 1 Kings v. 1-18. 2 Cor. xi. 1-18. 2 Chronicles iii. 1-17. 2 Cor. xii. 10-xiii. 13. 1 Kings viii. 1-66. Galatians i. 1-24. 1 Kings vii. 1-12. 10th Sunday after Trinity. Monday 'Galatians Tuesday 'Galatians Wednesday Galatians Thursday Friday . . Saturday 11th Sunday after Trinity, Monday Tuesday . . Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday • . Galatians Galatians Ephesians ii. 1-21. iii. 1-14. iv. 8-20. v. 1-15, vi. 11-18. vi. 1-9. 1 Kings 1 Kings 1 Kings 1 Kings 1 Kings 1 Kings ix. 1-28. x. 1-29. xi. 1-43. xii. 1-33. xiii. 1-34. xiv. 1-31. 12th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday , . Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Ephesians vi. 18-24. 1 Kings xvi. 29-xvii. 24. Philippians i.l2-ii.4. 1 Kings xviii. 1-46. Philippians ii. 19-30. 1 Kings xix. 1-21. Philippians iii. 1-11. 1 Kings xxi. 1-29. Philippians iv. 1-3. 1 Kings xxii. 52-2 K. i. 17. Philippians iv. 8-23. 2 Kings ii. 1-25. Colossians ii. 1-23. 2 Kings Col. iii. 18-iv. 18. 2 Kings 1 Thess. i. 1-10. 2 Kings 1 Thess. ii. 1-20. 2 Kings 1 Thess. iii. 1-13. 2 Kinccs 1 Thess. iv. 8-12. 2 Kings iv. 1-44. v. 1-27. vi. 1-23. vi. 24-vii. 20. viii. 1-15. ix. 1-37. XXlll A Table of Lessons for Morning and Evening. Days. 13th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday ......... Friday Saturday 14th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday . . 15th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 16th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday, Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 17th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 18th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 19th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday • Friday Saturday 20th Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 21st Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Morning. 1 Thess. 1 Timothy 1 Timothy l Timothy 1 Timothy 1 Timothy Y. 12-28. i. 1-20. ii. 1-15. iii. 1-16. iv. 1-16. v. 1-25. 1 Timothy 2 Timothy 2 Timothy Titus Titus vi. 1-21. i. 1-18. ii. 1-26. i. 1-16. ii. 1-10. Titus ii. 15-iii. 3. Titus iii. 8-15. Philemon 1-25. Hebrews i. 1-14. Hebrews ii. 5-iii. 6. Hebrews iv. 14-v. 14. Hebrews vi. 1-20. Hebrews Hebrews Hebrews Hebrews Hebrews Hebrews vii. 1-28. viii. 1-13. ix. 1-10. ix. 16-28. x. 1-34. xi. 1-7. Hebrews Hebrews Hebrews James James James xi. 17-40. xii. 1-17. xiii. 1-25. i. 1-15. ii. 1-13. ii. 14-26. James James James 1 Peter 1 Peter 1 Peter iii. 1-18. iv. 1-v. 6. v. 12-20. iii. 1-7. iii. 15-22. v. 1-5. 1 John 1 John 1 John 1 John 2 John 3 John i. 1-10. ii. 1-17. v. 1-3. v. 10-21. 1-13. 1-14. Mark iv. 1-41 Luke xiii. 18-35 Matthew xiii. 31-58. 2 Kings xx. 1-21. 2 Kings xxi. 1-26. 2 Chronicles xxxiv. 1-33. 2 Chr's xxxv. 20-xxxvi. 10. Jeremiah xxii. 1-30. Jeremiah xxv. 1-14. Evening. 2 Kings 2 Chronicles 2 Chronicles 2 Chronicles 2 Kings 2 Kings x. 1-36. xxii. 1-12. xxiii. 1-21. xxiv. 1-27. xiv. 1-29. xv. 1-38. Isaiah Amos 2 Kings 2 Kings 2 Kings 2 Kings vi. 1-13. vii. 7-17. xvi. 1-20. xvii. 1-23. xviii. 1-37. xix. 1-37. Jeremiah Jeremiah Jeremiah Jeremiah Jeremiah Daniel xx xvii. 1-21. xxx viii. 1-28. xx xii. 1-44. xxxix. 1-18. xxix. 1-23. i. 1-21. Daniel Daniel Daniel Daniel Ezra Ezra iii. 1-30. iv. 1-37. v. 1-30. v. 31-vi. 28. i. 1-11. iii. 1-13. Ezra Haggai Ezra Ezra Ezra Ezra iv. 1-24. i. 1-15. v. 1-17. vi. 1-22. vii. 1-28. viii. 31-ix. 15. Nehemiah Nehemiah jNehemiah INehemiah iNehemiah Zechariah i. 1-11. ii. l-2«». iv. 1-23. viii. 1-18. ix. 1-38. viii. 1-23. Isaiah Isaiah Habakkuk Matthew xvi. 13-20. jlsaiah 2 Cor. 2 Cor. iii. 10-iv. 18. v. 1-21. Isaiah Isaiah xliii. 1-13. xii. 1-20. ii. 1-4. lxiii. 7-19. lxiv. 1-12. v. 1-7. Ephesians 1. 1-23. iMicah Ephesians ii. 1-22. jlsaiah Ephesians iv. 7-21. 'jlsaiah Ephesians iv. 29-32. Jeremiah Ephesians v. 10-14. Jeremiah Ephesians v. 22-33. | jlsaiah vi. 1-9. lviii. 1-14. lix. 1-21. xxxi. 1-22. xx xi. 23-40. xlviii. 1-22. XXIV A Table of Lessons for Morning and Evening. Days. Morning. Evening. 22d Sunday after Trinity. Monday Matihew xyiii. 1-22. Mark ix. 33-50. Luke xyii. 20-37. Romans yiii. 24-39.'; Mark xii. 1-12.1 Matthew xxv. 14-30. Micah iy. 9-y. 1. Isaiah xlix. 14-21. Isaiah ii. 10-21. Isaiah lxiii. 1-6. Joel ii. 1-11. ! Joel ii. 12-27. Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday . 23d Sunday after Trinity. Monday Tuesday 1 Cor. iii. 1-23. Matthew xix. 16-30.1 Luke xiy. 12-15. Mark xiii. 1-37; Romans ix. 1-33. Romans x. 1-21. Joel iii. 1-13. 'Joel iii. 14-21. iObadiah 1-21. Xahum i. 1-14. Nahuni i. 15— iii- 19. Isaiah x. 5-27. Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 24th Sunday after Trinity. Mondav Romans xi. 1-33. 2 Thess. i. 11-ii. 17. 2 Thess. iii. 1-1S. 2 Timothy iii. 1-17. 2 Timothy iv. 1-22. Matthew xxiv. 1-14. Isaiah xiii. 1-22. Isaiah xiy. 1-27. Isaiah xlvii. 1-15. Daniel ii. 27-45. Daniel vii. 1-2$. Daniel ix. 1-27. Tuesday Wednesday Friday •'.... 25th Sunday after Trinity. Monday . t Matthew xxiv.29-51. Matthew xxii. 23-33. 1 Cor. xv. 11-50. Hebrews iii. 7-iv. 13. Hebrews xi. 8-16. Hebrews xii. 1S-29. iDaniel xi. 36-xii. 13. Ezekiel xxxviii. 1-23. Ezekiel xxxix. 1-29. Isaiah xliii. 14-25. Isaiah xxxiii. 17-24. Ezekiel xxxvii. 1-14. Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 26th Sunday after Trinity. Monday 1 Peter i. 1-12. 1 Peter i. 13-ii. 10. 1 Peter iy. 1-7. 1 Peter iy. 12-19. 2 Peter i. 1-15. 2 Peter ii. 1-22. Zephaniah iii. 9-20. Isaiah xxxiv. 1-17. Isaiah xxxv. 1-10. •Isaiah liv. 1-17. jlsaiah lx. 7-22. Isaiah lxii. 1-12. Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 27th Sunday after Trinity. Monday 2 Peter iii. 1-1S. Jude 1-25. 1 John ii. 18-29. 1 John iii. 1-12. 1 John iii. 19-24. 1 John iv. 1-8. Isaiah lxv. 17-25. iEzekiel xxxvii. 15-28. Habakkuk iii. 1-19. Isaiah xl. 27-31. Jjeremiah xiv. 7-9. jMalachi iii. 7-18. Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday XXV THE ORDER OF SERVICE. THE ORDER OF MORNING SERVICE, OR THE COMMUNION. fl A Hymn of Invocation of the Holy Ghost may be sung. fl The Congregation shall rise, and the 3finister, standing at the Altar, shall say : IN the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. fl The Congregation shall sing or say : Amen. fl Then shall be said the Confession of Sins, as here follow eih : The Confession of Sins. BELOVED in the Lord ! Let us draw near with a true heart, and confess our sins unto God our Father, beseeching Him, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to grant us forgiveness. Tf T hen, all kneeling or standing, shall be sung or said: Minister. Our help is in the Name of the Lord. Congregation. Who made heaven and earth. Minister. I said, I will confess my transgres- sions unto the Lord. Congregation. And Thou forgavest the ini- quity of my sin. r Then shall the Minister say: ALMIGHTY God, our Maker and Redeemer, we poor sinners confess unto Thee, that we are by nature sinful and unclean, and that we have sinned against Thee by thought, word, and 2 MORNING SERVICE, deed. Wherefore we flee for refuge to Thine in- finite mercy, seeking and imploring Thy grace, for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ. ^f The Congregation shall say with the Minister : O most merciful God, who hast given Thine Only-begotten Son to die for us, have mercy upon us, and for His sake grant us remission of all our sins : and by Thy Holy Spirit increase in us true knowledge of Thee, and of Thy will, and true obedience to Thy Word, to the end that by Thy grace we may come to everlasting life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. \ Then the Minister, standing, shall say : ALMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, hath had mercy upon us, and hath given His Only Son to die for us, and for His sake forgiv- eth us all our sins. To them that believe on His Name, He giveth power to become the sons of God, and hath promised them His Holy Spirit. He that believeth, and is baptized, shall be saved. Grant this, Lord, unto us all. ^f Then shall the Congregation sing or say : Amen. fl Then, all standing to the close of the Collect, shall be sung or said the Introit /or the Day. The Introit. fl The Introit with the Gloria Patri may be sung by the choir ; or the Introit may be said by the Minister, and the Gloria Patri sung or said by the Congregation. Instead of the Introit a Psalm or a Hymn may be used. Gloria Patri. GLORY be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the begin- ning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. OR THE COMMUNION. 6 ^[ Then shall follow the Kyrie. fl The Kyrie may be sung or said by the Minister and Congregation, or each petition may be said by the Minister and sung or said by the Con- gregation in response. Lord, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. 1 Then shall be sung the Gloria in Excelsis as here follow eth. Instead of the Gloria in Excelsis, another Canticle or Hymn of Praise may be sung, except on Festival days, and when there is a Communion. Gloria in Excelsis. ^f The Minister shall say : Glory be to God on high ! ^f The Congregation shall sing: GLORY be to God on high, and on earth peace, good will towards men. We praise Thee, we bless Thee, we worship Thee, we glor- ify Thee, we give thanks to Thee for Thy great glory, O Lord God, heavenly King, God the Father Almighty. O Lord, the Only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ; O Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, that takest away the sin of the world, have mercy upon us. Thou that takest away the sin of the world, receive our prayer. Thou that sit- test at the right hand of God the Father, have mercy upon us. For Thou only art holy; Thou only art the Lord; Thou only, O Christ, with the Holy Ghost, art most high in the glory of God the Father. Amen. fl Then shall the Minister say : The Lord be with you. ^f The Congregation shall sing or say : And with thy spirit. 4 MORNING SERVICE, fl The Minister shall say : Let us pray. ^ Then shall the Minister say the Collect for the Day. The Collect \ The Collect ended, the Congregation shall sing or say : Amen. ^f Then shall the Minister read the Epistle for the Day. Other Scrip- ture Lessons may be read before the Epistle, but the Epistle and Gospel for the Day shall always be read. The Minister shall announce the Epistle, saying: The Epistle for (here he shall name the Day) is written in the Chapter of , beginning at the Verse. The Epistle for the Day. ^f The Epistle ended, the Minister shall say : Here endeth the Epistle, fl Then shall the Hallelujah be sung or said, except in the Passion Season. The Hallelujah. Hallelujah ! fl Instead of the simple Hallelujah, a Sentence for the Season of the Church- Year may be sung with it; or a Psalm or Hymn may be sung after the Hallelujah. The Hallelujah and Sentence. For Advent. Hallelujah! Bemember, Lord, Thy tender mer- cies: for they have been ever of old. Hallelujah! For the Epiphany Season. Hallelujah! O praise the Lord, all ye nations: and laud Him, all ye people. For His merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endur- eth for ever. Hallelujah! For the Passion Season. Christ hath humbled Himself, and become obedient unto death : even the death of the Cross. For the Easter Season. Hallelujah! Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us. Hallelujah! OR THE COMMUNION. 5 For Whitsuntide. Hallelujah! Thou sendest forth Thy Spirit, they are created : and Thou renewest the face of the earth. Hallelujah! From Trinity to Advent. Hallelujah! Lord, deal with Thy servant ac- cording unto Thy mercy : and teach me Thy statutes. I am Thy servant, give me understanding : that I may know Thy testimonies. Hallelujah! Or this: Hallelujah! Blessed be the Lord God of our fathers: praise Him, and highly exalt Him for ever. Hallelujah! fl Then shall the Minister announce the Gospel for the Day, saying : The Holy Gospel is written in the Chap- ter of St. , beginning at the Verse. ^[ The Congregation may sing or say : Glory be to Thee, O Lord. fl Then shall the Minister read The Gospel for the Day. ^ The Gospel ended, the Minister shall say : Here endeth the Gospel, and the Congregation shall stand up, wiless they have stood at the read- ing of the Gospel, and shall sing or say : Praise be to Thee, O Christ. ^f Then shall be said or sung the Nicene Creed, or the Apostles' Creed j but if there be a Communion, the Nicene Creed shall be used. The Nicene Greed. I BELIEVE in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of Heaven and earth, And of all things visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only-be- gotten Son of God, Begotten of His Father be- fore all worlds, God of God, Light of Light, Very God of very God, Begotten, not made, Being of one substance with the Father, By whom all 6 MORNING SERVICE, things were made; Who, for us men, and for our salvation, came down from heaven, And was in- carnate by the Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary, And was made man; And was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate. He suffered and was buried; And the third day He rose again, ac- cording to the Scriptures ; And ascended into heaven, And sitteth on the right hand of the Father; And He shall come again with glory to judge both the quick and the dead; Whose king- dom shall have no end. And I believe in the Holy Ghost, The Lord and Giver of Life, Who proceedeth from the Fa- ther and the Son, Who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified, Who spake by the Prophets. And I believe one holy Christian and Apostolic Church. I acknowledge one Baptism for the remission of sins; And I look for the Kesurrection of the dead; And the Life of the world to come. Amen. The Apostles' Greed. I BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of Heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary; Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into hell; The third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; The holy Chris- tian Church, the Communion of Saints; The For- giveness of sins; The Kesurrection of the body; And the Life everlasting. Amen. OR THE COMMUNION. 7 ^[ Then may a Hymn be sung and the Minister shall go i?ito the pulpit. After the Hymn shall follow The Sermon. ^f The Sermon ended, the Congregation standing up, the Minister shall say : THE peace of God, which passeth all under- standing, keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. ^f The Offertory shall then be sung, at the close of which the Congrega- tion shall be seated, \ One of the Offertories here following, or any other suitable Offertory, may be used. The Offertory. I. THE sacrifices of God are a broken spirit : a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise. Do good in Thy good pleasure unto Zion: Build Thou the walls of Jerusalem. Then shalt Thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousness : with burnt-offering and whole burnt-offering. II. CREATE in me a clean heart, O God : and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from Thy presence: and take not Thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation: and uphold me with Thy free Spirit. ^f The Offerings shall be gathered and brought to the Minister, who shall place them on the Altar. ^f Then shall the Minister make mention of any special petitions, interces- sions or thanksgivings which may have been requested. He may also make mention of the death of any member of the Congregation. Tf Then shall follow the General Prayer. The Prayer here following may be used ; or, if there be no Communion, the Litany, or a- selection from the Collects and Prayers, or any other suitable prayer. 8 MORNING SERVICE, The General Prayer. ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, the Fa- ther of our Lord Jesus Christ: We give Thee thanks for all Thy goodness and tender mercies, especially for the gift of Thy dear Son, and for the revelation of Thy will and grace; and we beseech Thee so to implant Thy Word in us, that, in good and honest hearts, we may keep it, and bring forth fruit by patient contin- uance in well doing. Most heartily we beseech Thee so to rule and govern Thy Church universal, with all its pas- tors and ministers, that it may be preserved in the pure doctrine of Thy saving Word, whereby faith toward Thee may be strengthened, and charity increased in us toward all mankind. Grant also health and prosperity to all that are in authority, especially to the President [and Congress] of the United States, the Governor [and Legislature] of this Commonwealth, and to all our Judges and Magistrates; and endue them with grace to rule after Thy good pleasure, to the maintenance of righteousness, and to the hin- derance and punishment of wickedness, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, in all godli- ness and honesty. May it please Thee also to turn the hearts of our enemies and adversaries, that they may cease their enmity, and be inclined to walk with us in meekness and in peace. All who are in trouble, want, sickness, anguish of labor, peril of death, or any other adversity, especially those who are in suffering for Thy Name and for Thy truth's sake, comfort, O God, with Thy Holy Spirit, that they may receive and acknowledge their afflictions as the manifestation of Thy fatherly will. OR THE COMMUNION. 9 And although we have deserved Thy righteous wrath and manifold punishments, yet, we entreat Thee, O most merciful Father, remember not the sins of our youth, nor our many transgressions; but out of Thine unspeakable goodness, grace and mercy, defend us from all harm and danger of body and soul. Preserve us from false and pernicious doctrine, from war and bloodshed, from plague and pestilence, from all calamity by fire and water, from hail and tempest, from fail- ure of harvest and from famine, from anguish of heart and despair of Thy mercy, and from an evil death. And in every time of trouble, show Thyself a very present Help, the Saviour of all men, and especially of them that believe. Cause also the needful fruits of the earth to prosper, that we may enjoy them in due season. Give success to the Christian training of the young, to all lawful occupations on land and sea, and to all pure arts and useful knowledge; and crown them with Thy blessing. fl Here special Supplications, Intercessions, and Prayers may be made. These, and whatsoever other things Thou wouldest have us ask of Thee, O God, vouchsafe unto us for the sake of the bitter sufferings and death of Jesus Christ, Thine only Son, our Lord and Saviour, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world with- out end. fl Then shall the Minister, and the Congregation with him, say the Lord's Prayer. The Lord's Prayer. OUR Father, who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy Name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven; Give us 10 MORNING SERVICE, this day our daily bread; And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But deliver us from evil; For Thine is the king- dom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. fl Then shall be sung a Hymn. fl If there be no Communion, a Doxology may be sung, and the Minister, standing at the Altar, shall pronounce the Benediction, after which the Congregation shall offer silent prayer. The Benediction. The Lord bless thee, and keep thee. The Lord make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. fl The Congregation shall sing or say : Amen. fl Whilst the Hymn is sung, the Minister shall go to the Altar, make ready the Communion vessels, and prepare for the administration of the Holy Communion. ^f The Hymn ended, the Congregation shall rise, and stand to the end of the Agnus Dei. The Preface. ^ The Minister shall say : The Lord be with you. ^[ The Congregation shall sing or say : And with thy spirit. Minister. Lift up your hearts* Congregation. We lift them up unto the Lord. OR THE COMMUNION. 11 Minister. Let us give thanks unto the Lord our God. Congregation. It is meet and right so to do. Minister. It is truly meet, right, and salutary, that we should at all times, and' in all places, give thanks unto Thee, O Lord, Holy Father, Almighty Everlasting God. *[ Here shall follow the Proper Preface, according to the time, if there be any specially appointed, or else immediately shall follow, Therefore with angels, etc. Proper Prefaces. For Christmas. II^OR in the mystery of the Word made flesh, Thou • hast given us a new revelation of Thy glory; that seeing Thee in the person of Thy Son, we may he drawn to the love of those things which are not seen. Therefore with Angels, etc. For the Passion Season. WHO on the tree of the Cross didst give salvation unto mankind ; that whence death arose, thence life also might rise again : and that he who by a tree once overcame, might likewise by a tree be overcome, through Christ our Lord ; through Whom with Angels, etc. For the Easter Season. BUT chiefly are we bound to praise Thee for the glorious Eesurrection of Thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord : for He is the very Paschal Lamb, which was offered for us, and hath taken away the sin of the world ; Who by His death hath destroyed death, and by His rising to life again, hath restored to us ever- lasting life. Therefore with Angels, etc. For Ascension Day. THROUGH Jesus Christ our Lord, Who after His Resurrection appeared openly to all His disciples, and in their sight was taken up into Heaven, that He 12 MORNING SERVICE, might make us partakers of His Divine Nature. Therefore with Angels, etc. For Whitsunday. THROUGH Jesus Christ, Thy dear Son, our Lord and Saviour; Who ascending above the heavens, and sitting at Thy right hand, poured out on this day the Holy Spirit as He had promised, upon the chosen disciples; whereat the whole earth rejoices with ex- ceeding joy. Therefore with Angels, etc. For the Festival of the Trinity. WHO with Thine Only-begotten Son, and the Holy Ghost, art one God, one Lord. And in the confession of the only true God, we worship the Trinity in Person, and the Unity in Substance, of Majesty co-equal. Therefore with Angels, etc. H fl After the Preface shall follow immediately : THEREFORE with Angels and Archangels, and with all the company of heaven, we laud and magnify Thy glorious Name; evermore praising Thee, and saying : fl Then shall be sung or said the Sanctus. OLY, holy, holy, Lord God of Sabaoth; Heaven and earth are full of Thy glory; Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. ]f Then may the Minister give this Exhortation. The Exhortation. DEARLY Beloved! Forasmuch as we purpose to come to the Holy Supper of our Lord Jesus Christ, it becometh us diligently to exam- OR THE COMMUNION. 13 ine ourselves, as St. Paul exhorteth us. For this Holy Sacrament hath been instituted for the special comfort and strengthening of those who humbly confess their sins, and who hunger and thirst after righteousness. But if we thus examine ourselves, we shall find nothing in us but only sin and death, from which we can in no wise set ourselves free. Therefore our Lord Jesus Christ hath had mercy upon us, and hath taken upon Himself our nature, that so He might fulfil for us the whole will and law of God, and for us and for our deliverance suffer death and all that we by our sins have deserved. And to the end that we should the more confi- dently believe this, and be strengthened by our faith in a cheerful obedience to His holy will, He hath instituted the Holy Sacrament of His Supper, in w r hich He feedeth us with His Body, and giveth us to drink of His Blood. Therefore whoso eateth of this bread, and drinketh of this cup, firmly believing the words of Christ, dwelleth in Christ, and Christ in him, and hath eternal life. We should also do this in remembrance of Him, showing His death, that He was delivered for our offences, and raised again for our justifi- cation, and rendering unto Him most hearty thanks for the same, take up our cross and fol- low Him, and according to His commandment, love one another even as He hath loved us. For we are all one bread and one body, even as we are all partakers of this one bread, and drink of this one cup. ^ Then the Minister, turning to the Altar, shall say: Let us pray. 14 MORNING SERVICE, OUR Father, who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy Name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But deliver us from evil; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. 1[ Then shall the Congregation sing or say : Amen. fl Then shall the Minister say : OUR Lord Jesus Christ, in the (a) Hereh eshaii night in which He was be- ^iJ^VaS trayed, took bread; (a) and when hand - He had given thanks, He brake it and gave it to His disciples, saying, Take, eat; this is my Body, which is given for you; this do in remembrance of Me. After the same manner, also, He (&) Here he shaii , , /7X , TT , , take the Cup in his took the cup, (6) when He had hand. supped, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; this cup is the New Testament in My Blood, which is shed for you, and for many, for the remission of sins; this do, as oft as ye drink it, in remem- brance of Me. fl Then shall the Minister say : The peace of the Lord be with you alway. fl Then shall be sung or said the Agnus Dei and the Distribution shall begin. Agnus Dei. CHRIST, Thou Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world, have mercy upon us. OR THE COMMUNION. 15 O Christ, Thou Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world, have mercy upon us. O Christ, Thou Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world, grant us Thy peace. Amen. ^f When the Minister giveth the Bread, he shall say : Take and eat, this is the Body of Christ given for thee. ^ When he giveth the Cup, he shall say : Take and drink, this is the Blood of the New Testament, shed for thy sins. ^f In dismissing the Communicants, the Minister may say : The Body of our Lord Jesus Christ and His precious Blood strengthen and preserve you in the true faith unto everlasting life. ^[ If the consecrated Bread or Wine be spent before all have communed, the Minister shall consecrate more, saying aloud so much of the Words of Institution as pertaineth to the element to be consecrated. ^f When all have communed, the Minister shall reverently cover what re- maineth of the Bread and Wine. ^f Then, all standing, may be sung or said the Nunc Dimittis. LORD, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace: according to Thy word: Jb or mine eyes have seen Thy salvation : which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people ; A light to lighten the Gentiles : and the glory of Thy people Israel. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : world without end. Amen. ^[ Then shall be said : The TJianksgiving. 16 MORNING SERYICE. Minister, O give thanks unto the Lord, lor He is good, ^f The Congregation shall sing or say ; And His mercy endureth for ever. Minister. WE give thanks to Thee, Almighty God, that Thou hast refreshed us through this salu- tary gift; and we beseech Thee, that of Thy mercy Thou wouldst strengthen us through the same in faith toward Thee and in fervent love toward one another, through Jesus Christ, Thy dear Son, our Lord, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. fl The Congregation shall sing or say : Amen. fl Then may be sung or said the Benedicamus. Minister. The Lord be with you. Congregation. And with thy spirit. Minister. Bless we the Lord. Congregation. Thanks be to God. If Then shall the Minister say the Benediction as here followeth, or he may say the words 2 Cor. xiii. 14. Tf After the Benediction the Congregation should offer silent prayer. The Benediction. The Lord bless thee, and keep thee. The Lord make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. fl The Congregation shall sing or say : Amen. THE ORDER OF EVENING SERVICE, OR VESPERS. fl A Hymn of Invocation of the Holy Ghost, or another Hymn, may be sung. fl Then shall be sung or said responsivefy the Yersicle with the Gloria Patri as here follow eth, all standing to the end of the Psalm. Yersicle. Make haste, O God, to deliver me. Answer. Make haste to help me, O Lord. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy Ghost ; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: world without end. Amen. Hallelujah ! fl During the Passion Season the Hallelujah shall be omitted. The Psalm. fl Then shall be sung or said one or more Psalms. At the end of the Psalm the Gloria Patri shall be sung. An Antiphon may be used with each Psalm. The Lesson. I" The Scripture Lessons shall then be read, and after each Lesson may be sung or said : But Thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us. Answer. Thanks be to God. fl After the Lessons a Responsory may be sung. ft Then may follow a Sermon, after which the Offerings may be gathered. \ Then shall be sung The Hymn. (17) 18 EVENING SERVICE, ^f Then, all standing, may be sung or said this Versicle. But on Festi- val dags, a special Versicle mag be used. Versicle. Let my prayer be set forth before Thee as incense: Ansiuer. And the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. The Canticle. ^ Then shall be sung the Magnificat. St. Luke i. MY soul doth magnify the Lord: and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For He hath regarded : the low estate of His handmaiden. For behold, from henceforth : all generations shall call me blessed. For He that is mighty hath done to me great things : and holy is His name. And His mercy is on them that fear Him : from generation to generation. He hath showed strength with His arm : He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seats : and exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things : and the rich He hath sent empty away. He hath holpen His servant Israel, in remem- brance of His mercy: as He spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed, for ever. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son* and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be • world without end. Amen. OR VESPERS. 19 1f Or the Nunc Dimittis. St. Luke ii. LORD, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace: according to Thy word: For mine eyes have seen Thy salvation: which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people ; A light to lighten the Gentiles: and the glory of Thy people Israel. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy Ghost ; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : world without end. Amen. ^f An Antiphon may be sung with the Canticle. The Prayer. fl Then shall be said the Prayers here following, or the Suffrages, the Litany, or other prayers. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Christy have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. ^f Then all shall say : OUR Father, who art in heaven ; Hallowed be Thy Name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But de- liver us from evil ; for Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Salutation. The Lord be with you. Answer. And with thy spirit. Let us pray. 20 EVENING SERVICE. fl Then shall be said the Collect for the day ; the Collect for the Sunday is said throughout the week following until Friday, but on Saturday the Collect for the following Sunday is said. Then may be said any other Collects, and after that this Collect for Peace. A Versicle may be used with the Collect. 0GOD, from whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works do proceed; Give unto Thy servants that peace, which the world cannot give ; that our hearts may be set to obey Thy commandments, and also that by Thee, we, being defended from the fear of our enemies, may pass our time in rest and quietness; through the merits of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. fl Then may be sung or said the Benedicamus. Bless we the Lord. Answer. Thanks be to God. fl The Service may end with the Benedicamus j or a Closing Hymn may be sung, after which may be said: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. J At the close of the Service silent prayer should be offered. THE ORDER OF EARLY SERVICE, OR MATINS. fl A Hymn of Invocation of the Holy Ghost, or another Hymn, may be sung. ^f Then shall be sung or said the Yersicles here following, all standing to the end of the Yenite. Versicle. O Lord, open Thou my lips. Answer. And my mouth shall show forth Thy praise. Versicle. Make haste, O God, to deliver me. Answer. Make haste to help me, O Lord. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : world without end. Amen. Hallelujah. If During the Passion Season the Hallelujah shall be omitted. \ Then shall follow the Invitatory with the Venite. On Festival days, a special Invitatory may be used. The Invitatory. O come, let us worship the Lord : For He is our Maker. Venite Exultemns. Ps. xcv. OCOME, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the Rock of our sal- vation. Let us come before His presence with thanks- giving: and make a joyful noise unto Him with psalms. (21) 22 EARLY SERVICE, For the Lord is a great God: and a great King above all gods. In His hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is His also. The sea is His, and He made it: and His hands formed the dry land. O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. For He is our God: and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy Ghost, As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: world without end. Amen. The Hymn. fl The Hgmn shall then be sung. The Psalm. ff Then, all standing to the end of the Psalm, shall be sung or said one or more Psalms. At the end of the Psalm, the Gloria Patri shall be sung. An Antiphon mag be used with each Psalm. The Lesson. fl The Scripture Lessons shall then be read. After each Lesson mag be sung or said : But Thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us. Ansiver. Thanks be to God. fl After the Lessons a Responsory mag be sung. If A brief Exhortation, or Sermon, mag then follow. The Canticle. If The Congregation shall stand and sing the Te Deum Laudamus, or the Benedictus. An Antiphon mag be sung with the Benedictus. Te Deum Laudamus. WE praise Thee, O God: we acknowledge Thee to be the Lord. All the earth doth worship Thee : the Father everlasting. OR MATINS. 23 To Thee all angels cry aloud : the heavens, and all the powers therein. To Thee Cherubim and Seraphim : continually do cry, Holy, Holy, Holy : Lord God of Sabaoth ; Heaven and earth are full of the Majesty : of Thy Glory. The glorious company of the Apostles : praise Thee. The goodly fellowship of the Prophets : praise Thee. The noble army of Martyrs : praise Thee. The holy Church throughout all the world : doth acknowledge Thee ; The Father : of an infinite Majesty ; Thine adorable, true : and only Son ; Also the Holy Ghost : the Comforter. Thou art the King of Glory : O Christ. Thou art the everlasting Son : of the Father. When Thou tookest upon Thee to deliver man : Thou didst humble Thyself to be born of a Vir- gin. When Thou hadst overcome the sharpness of death : Thou didst open the kingdom of heaven to all believers. Thou sittest at the right hand of God : in the glory of the Father. We believe that Thou shalt come: to be our Judge. We therefore pray Thee, help Thy servants : whom Thou hast redeemed with Thy precious blood. Make them to be numbered with Thy saints : in glory everlasting. O Lord, save Thy people: and bless Thine heritage. Govern them : and lift them up for ever. 24 EARLY SERVICE, Day by day : we magnify Thee. And we worship Thy name: ever, world with- out end. Vouchsafe, O Lord : to keep us this day with- out sin. O Lord, have mercy upon us: have mercy upon us. O Lord, let Thy mercy be upon us : as our trust is in Thee. O Lord., in Thee have I trusted : let me never be confounded. Amen. Or: Benedictus. St. Luke i. BLESSED be the Lord God of Israel: for He hath visited and redeemed His people; And hath raised up a horn of salvation for us : in the house of His servant David ; As He spake by the mouth of His holy proph- ets : which have been since the world began ; That we should be saved from our enemies : and from the hand of all that hate us; To perform the mercy promised to our fathers : and to remember His holy covenant; The oath which He sware to our father Abra- ham : that He would grant unto us ; That we, being delivered out of the hand of our enemies : might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him : all the days of our life. And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways; To give knowledge of salvation unto His peo- ple : by the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God: OR MATINS. 25 whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us; To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death : to guide our feet into the way of peace. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy Ghost ; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: world without end. Amen.- The Prayer. ^f Then shall be said the Prayers here following, or the Suffrages, the Lit- any, or other prayers. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. ^f Then all shall say : OUR Father, who art in heaven ; Hallowed be Thy Name ; Thy kingdom come ; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven ; Give us this day our daily bread ; And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive those who trespass against us ; And lead us not into temptation ; But de- liver us from evil ; for Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. ^f One or more Collects may be used, icith the Salutation, tvhich may be preceded by a Versicle. After each Collect the Congregation shall sing or say : Amen. ^f Then may be sung or said the Benedicarous with the Salutation. The Lord be with you. Answer. And with thy spirit. 26 EARLY SERVICE. Benedicamus. Bless we the Lord. Answer. Thanks be to God. fl The Service may end with the Benedicamus ; or a closing Hymn may be sung j after which may be said : The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. fl At the close of the Service silent prayer should be offered. INTROITS AND COLLECTS FOR THE CHURCH YEAR. If The Introits have their proper music, hut they may he sung to the Psalm tones. The Introit, as far as the Psalm, ?nay be repeated after the Gloria Patri. FIRST SUNDAY IN ADVENT. Introit. TTNTO Thee, Lord, do I lift up my soul : O my God, KJ I trust in Thee ; Let me not be ashamed : Let not mine enemies triumph over me ; Yea, let none that wait on Thee : be ashamed. Psalm. Shew me Thy ways, Lord : teach me Thy paths. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. STIR up, we beseech Thee, Thy power, Lord, and come ; that by Thy protection we may be rescued from the threatening perils of our sins, and saved by Thy mighty deliverance ; Who livest and reignest with the Father and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Rom. xiii. 11-14. Gospel, Matt. xxi. 1-9. SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT. Introit. DAUGHTER of Zion : behold thy salvation cometh. The Lord shall cause His glorious voice to be heard : and ye shall have gladness of heart. Ps. Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel : Thou that leadest Joseph like a flock. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. STIR up our hearts, O Lord, to make ready the way of Thine Only-Begotten Son, so that by His coming we may be enabled to serve Thee with pure minds ; Who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Romans xv. 4-13. Gospel, Luke xxi. 25-36. (27) 28 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. THIRD SUNDAY IN ADVENT. Introit. REJOICE in the Lord alway : and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men : the Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing : but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Ps. Lord, Thou hast been favorable unto Thy land : Thou hast brought back the captivity of Jacob. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. LORD, we beseech Thee, give ear to our prayers, and lighten the darkness of our hearts, by Thy gracious visitation ; Who livest and reignest with the Father and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Cor. iv. 1-5. Gospel, Matt. xi. 2-10. FOURTH SUNDAY IN ADVENT. Introit. DROP down, ye heavens, from above : and let the skies pour down righteousness : Let the earth open : and bring forth salvation. Ps. The heavens declare the glory of God : and the fir- mament sheweth His handywork. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. STIR up, O Lord, we beseech Thee, Thy power, and come, and with great might succor us, that by the help of Thy grace whatsoever is hindered by our sins may be speedily accomplished, through Thy mercy and satisfaction ; Who livest and reignest with the Father and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Philippians iv. 4-7. Gospel, John i. 19-28. Other Collects for the Season of Advent. MERCIFULLY hear, O Lord, the prayers of Thy people ; that as they rejoice in the Advent of Thine Only-Begotten Son according to the flesh, so when He Com- eth a second time in His Majesty, they may receive the reward of eternal life ; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord; Who liveth, &C. CHRISTMAS. 29 OGOD, Who dost gladden us with the yearly antici- pation of our Redemption ; Grant that we who now joyfully receive Thine Only-Begotten Son as our Re- deemer, may also behold Him without fear when He cometh as our Judge ; Who liveth, &c. MOST merciful God, Who hast given Thine eternal Word to be made incarnate of the pure Virgin ; Grant unto Thy people grace to put away fleshly lusts, that so they may be ready for Thy visitation ; through the same, Thy Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth, &c. CHRISTMAS. Introit. "TNTO us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: K_J and the government shall be upon His shoulder. And His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God : the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. Ps. sing unto the Lord a new song : for He hath done marvellous things. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect for Christmas Night. OGOD, Who hast made this most holy night to shine with the brightness of the true Light ; Grant, we beseech Thee, that as we have known on earth the mysteries of that Light, we may also come to the fullness of its joys in heaven ; through the same our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Collect for Christinas Day. GRANT, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that the new birth of Thine Only-Begotten Son in the flesh may set us free who are held in the old bondage under the yoke of sin ; through the same Thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Tit. ii: 11-14; Isa. ix : 2-7. Gospel, Luke ii: 1-14. 30 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. SECOND CHRISTMAS DAY. [The Introit and Collect are the same as for Christmas Day.-] Epistle, Titus iii: 4-7. Gospel, Luke ii: 15-20. SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS. Introit. THY testimonies are very sure : holiness becometh Thine house, O Lord, forever. Thy throne is established of old : Thou art from ever- lasting. Ps. The Lord reigneth, He is clothed with majesty : the Lord is clothed with strength, wherewith He hath girded Himself. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, direct our actions according to Thy good pleasure, that in the Name of Thy beloved Son, we may be made to abound in good works ; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Galatians iv : 1-7. Gospel, Luke ii : 33-40. THE CIRCUMCISION OF CHRIST— NEW YEAR. Introit. OLORD, our Lord, how excellent is Thy Name in all the earth : Who hast set Thy glory above the heavens. What is man that Thou art mindful of him : and the son of man that Thou visitest him ? Ps. Thou, O Lord, art our Father and our Redeemer : from everlasting is Thy Name. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OLORD God, Who, for our sakes, hast made Thy Blessed Son our Saviour subject to the Law, and caused Him to endure the circumcision of the flesh; Grant CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR. 31 us the true circumcision of the Spirit, that our hearts may be pure from all sinful desires and lusts ; through the same Thy Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, from whom cometh down every good and perfect gift ; we give Thee thanks for all Thy benefits, temporal and spiritual, bestowed upon us in the year past, and we beseech Thee of Thy goodness, grant us a favorable and joyful year, defend us from all dangers and adversities, and send upon us the fullness of Thy blessing ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, &c. Epistle, Galatians iii: 23-29. Gospel, Luke ii: 21. SUNDAY AFTER NEW YEAR. [ The Introit and Collect are the same as for the Sunday after Christmas.'] Epistle, 1 Peter iv: 12-19. Gospel, Matt, ii: 13-23. EPIPHANY. Introit BEHOLD the Lord, the Ruler hath come : and the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory are in His hand. Ps. Give the King Thy judgments, O God : and Thy righteousness unto the King's Son. Glory be to the Father, Sfc. Collect. OGOD, Who by the leading of a star didst manifest Thy Only-Begotten Son to the Gentiles; Mercifully grant, that we, who know Thee now by faith, may after this life have the fruition of Thy glorious Godhead ; through the same, Thy Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Isaiah lx : 1-6. Gospel, Matt, ii: 1-12. 32 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. FIRST SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY. Introit. IS AW also the Lord, sitting upon a throne : high and lifted up. And I heard the voice of a great multitude, saying, Alleluia : for the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth. Ps. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands: serve the Lord with gladness. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OLOE.D, we beseech Thee mercifully to receive the prayers of Thy people who call upon Thee ; and grant that they may both perceive and know what things they ought to do, and also may have grace and power faith- fully to fulfill the same ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Rom. xii: 1-5. Gospel, Luke ii: 41-52. SECOND SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY. Introit. ALL the earth shall worship Thee : and shall sing unto Thee, O God. They shall sing to Thy Name : O Thou Most Highest. Ps. Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands : sing forth the honor of His Name, make His praise glorious. Glory be to the Father, S?c. Collect. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who dost govern all things in heaven and earth ; Mercifully hear the supplications of Thy people, and grant us Thy peace all the days of our life ; through Thy Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Romans xii: 6-16. Gospel, John ii: 1-11. THIRD SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY. Introit. WORSHIP Him, all ye His angels: Zion heard and was glad. The daughters of Judah rejoiced : because of Thy judg- ments, Lord. SUNDAYS AFTER EPIPHANY. 33 Ps. The Lord reigneth, let the earth rejoice : let the multitude of isles be glad thereof. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, mercifully look upon our infirmities, and in all our dangers and necessities stretch forth the right hand of Thy Majesty, to help and defend us ; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Rom. xii: 16-21. Gospel, Matt, viii: 1-13. FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHAXY. \The Introit is the same as for the Hard Sunday after Epiphany, ,] Collect. ALMIGHTY God, Who knowest us to be set in the midst of so many and great dangers, that by reason of the frailty of our nature we cannot always stand upright ; Grant to us such strength and protection as may support us in all dangers, and carry us through all temptations; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world with- out end. Amen. Epistle, Rom. xiii : 8-10. Gospel, Matt, viii: 23-27. FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY. \The Introit is the same as for the Third Sunday after Epiphany.'] Collect. OLORD, we beseech Thee to keep Thy Church and Household continually in Thy true religion ; that they who do lean only upon the hope of Thy heavenly grace may evermore be defended by Thy mighty power; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Gh.^st, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Col. iii: 12-17. Gospel, Matt, xiii: 24-30. 34 . INTROITS AND COLLECTS, T SIXTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY. Introit. HE lightnings lightened the world : the earth trembled I and shook. Ps. How amiable are Thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts: My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OGOD, Who in the glorious Transfiguration of Thy Only-Begotten Son, hast confirmed the mysteries of the faith by the testimony of the fathers, and who, in the voice that came from the bright cloud, didst in a wonderful manner foreshow the adoption of sons : Mercifully vouch- safe to make us co-heirs with the King of his glory, and bring us to the enjoyment of the same ; through the same, our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 2 Peter i. 16-21. Gospel, Matt, xvii : 1-9. SEPTUAGESIMA SUNDAY. Introit. THE sorrows of death compassed me : the sorrows of hell compassed me about. In my distress, I called upon the Lord : and He heard my voice out of His temple. Ps. I will love Thee, O Lord my Strength : the Lord is my Rock and my Fortress ! Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OLORD, we beseech Thee favorably to hear the prayers of Thy people : that we, who are justly punished for our offences, may be mercifully delivered by Thy goodness, for the glory of Thy Name ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Saviour, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Cor. ix: 24 — x: 5. Gospel, Matt, xx : 1-16. ASH WEDNESDAY. 35 SEXAGESBIA SUNDAY. Introit. AWAKE, why sleepest Thou, O Lord ? : Arise, cast us not off forever. Wherefore hidest Thou Thy face : and forgettest our affliction ? Our soul is bowed down to the dust : arise for our help and redeem us. Ps. We have heard with our ears, O God : our fathers have told us what work Thou didst in their days. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OGOD, Who seest that we put not our trust in any- thing that we do : Mercifully grant, that by the power of Thy Son, the Teacher of nations, we may be de- fended against all adversity ; through the same, our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 2 Cor. xi : 19 — xii : 9. Gospel, Luke viii: 4-15. QU1NQUAGESIMA SUNDAY. Introit. BE Thou my strong Rock : for an house of defence to save me. Thou art my Rock and my Fortress : therefore for Thy Name's sake lead me and guide me. Ps. In Thee, O Lord, do I put my trust ; let me never be ashamed : deliver me in Thy righteousness. Glory be to the Father, Sfc. Collect. OLORD, we beseech Thee mercifully hear our prayers, and, having set us free from the bonds of sin, defend us from all evil ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle. 1 Cor. xiii • 1-13. Gospel, Luke xviii : 31-43. ASH WEDNESDAY, OR FIRST DAY OF LENT, Introit. I WILL cry unto God Most High : unto God that per- formeth all things for me. Yea, in the shadow of Thy wings will I make my refuge : until these calamities be overpast. 36 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. Ps. Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me for my soul trusteth in Thee. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who hatest nothing that Thou hast made, and dost forgive the sins of ail those who are penitent; Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins, and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of Thee, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgive- ness ; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Joel ii : 12-19. Gospel, Matt, vi : 16-21. FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT (INVOCAYIT). Introit. HE shall call upon Me, and I will answer him : I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him : and show him my salvation. Ps. He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High : shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OLORX), mercifully hear our prayer, and stretch forth the right hand of Thy Majesty to defend us from them that rise up against us ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 2 Cor. vi : 1-10. Gospel, Matt, iv: 1-11. SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT (REMINISCERE). Introit. REMEMBER, O Lord, Thy tender mercies and Thy loving-kindnesses : for they have been ever of old. Let not mine enemies triumph over me : God of Israel, deliver us out of all our troubles. Ps. Unto Thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul : O my God, I trust in Thee ; Let me not be ashamed. Glory be to the Father, fyc. SUNDAYS m LENT. 37 Collect. OGOD, Who seest that of ourselves we have no strength ; Keep us both outwardly and inwardly ; that we may be defended from all adversities which may happen to the body, and from all evil thoughts which may assault and hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Thess. iv : 1-7. Gospel, Matt, xv : 21-28. THIRD SUNDAY IX LENT (OCULI). Introit. MINE eyes are ever toward the Lord : for He shall pluck my feet out of the net. Turn Thee unto me, and have mercy upon me : for I am desolate and afflicted. Ps. Unto Thee, Lord, do I lift up my soul : my God, I trust in Thee ; let me not be ashamed. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. WE beseech Thee, Almighty God, look upon the hearty desires of Thy humble servants, and stretch forth the right hand of Thy Majesty to be our defence against all our enemies; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Ephesians v : 1-9 Gospel, Luke xi : 14-28. FOURTH SUNDAY IX LEXT (L JET ARE). Introit. I)EJOICE ye with Jerusalem, and be glad with her: \j all ye that love her. Rejoice for joy with her : all ye that mourn for her. Ps. I was glad when they said unto me : Let us go into the house of the Lord. Glory be to the Father, &?c. Collect. GRANT, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that we, who for our evil deeds do worthily deserve to be punished, by the comfort of Thy grace may mercifully be relieved ; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ 38 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost,, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Galatians iv. : 21-31 Gospel, John vi: 1-15. FIFTH SUNDAY IN LENT (JUDICA). Introit. JUDGE me, O God : and plead my cause against an ungodly nation. O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man : for Thou art the God of my strength. Ps. O send out Thy light and Thy truth : let them lead me ; let them bring me unto Thy holy hill. Glory be the Father, fyc. Collect. WE beseech Thee, Almighty God, mercifully to look upon Thy people, that by Thy great goodness they may be governed and preserved evermore, both in body and soul ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Hebrews ix: 11-15. Gospel, John viii : 46-59. SIXTH SUNDAY IN LENT (PALMARUM). Introit. BE not Thou far from me, Lord: O my strength, haste Thee to help me. Save me from the lion's mouth : and deliver me from the horns of the unicorns. Ps. My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken me?: Why art Thou so far from helping me? Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who hast sent Thy Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ, to take upon Him our flesh, and to suffer death upon the cross, that all mankind should follow the example of His great humility : Mercifully grant that we may both follow the example of His patience, and also be made partakers of His resur- rection ; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord, who HOLY WEEK. 39 liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen, Epistle, Philippians ii : 5-11. Gospel, Matt, xxi : 1-9. MONDAY IN HOLY WEEK. Introit. PLEAD my cause, O Lord, with them that strive with me : fight against them that fight against me. Take hold of shield and buckler : and stand up for mine help. Ps. Draw out also the spear, and stop the way against them that persecute me : say unto my soul, I am Thy sal- vation. Glory be to the Father, Sfc. Collect /""^ RANT, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that we, vJT who amid so many adversities do fail through our own infirmities, may be restored through the passion and intercession of Thine Only-Begotten Son, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. EpistU, Is. 1 : 5-10. Gospel, John xii: 1-23, or The Passion History. TUESDAY IX HOLY WEEK. Introit. GOD forbid that I should glory : save in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. In Him is salvation, life, and resurrection from the dead : by Him we are redeemed and set at liberty. Ps. God be merciful unto us, and bless us: and cause His face to shine upon us. Glory be to the Father, S?c. Collect. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Grant us grace so to pass through this holy time of our Lord's Passion, that we may obtain the pardon of our sins ; through the same, Thy Son, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen Epistle, Jer. xi : 18-20. Gospel, John xii: 24-43, or The Passion History. 40 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. WEDNESDAY IN HOLY WEEK. Introit. AT the Name of Jesus every knee shall bow : of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth. For He became obedient unto death, even the death of the Cross : wherefore He is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Ps. Hear my prayer, Lord : and let my cry come unto Thee. Glory he to the Father, fyc. Collect. /""^ RANT, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that we, \JT who for our evil deeds are continually afflicted, may mercifully be relieved by the Passion of Thine Only-Begot- ten Son, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Is. lxii: lljlxiii: 1-7. Gospel, Luke xxii: 1-xxiii : 42, or The Passion History. THURSDAY IN HOLY WEEK. The Introit is the same as for Tuesday. Collect. OLORD God, Who hast left unto us in a wonderful Sacrament a memorial of Thy Passion ; Grant, we beseech Thee, that we may so use this Sacrament of Thy Body and Blood, that the fruits of Thy redemption may continually be manifest in us ; Thou, who livest and reign- est with the Father and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Cor. xi : 23-32. Gospel, John xiii : 1-15, or The Passion History. GOOD FRIDAY. The same Introit as for Tuesday, or this : SURELY He hath borne our griefs and carried our sorrows : He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities. All we like sheep have gone astray : and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all. EASTER. 41 Ps. Hear my prayer, O Lord : and let my cry come unto Thee. Glory be to the Father, S?c. Collects. ALMIGHTY God, we beseech Thee graciously to be- hold this Thy family, for which our Lord Jesus Christ was contented to be betrayed, and given up into the hands of wicked men, and to suffer death upon the Cross ; who now liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. MERCIFUL and Everlasting God, ^ho hast not spared Thine only Son, but delivered Him up for us all, that He might bear our sins upon the Cross ; Grant that our hearts may be so fixed with steadfast faith in Him that we may not fear the power of any adversaries ; through the same, Thy Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who hast willed that Thy Son should bear for us the pains of the Cross, that Thou mightest remove from us the power of the adversary; Help us so to remember and give thanks for our Lord's Passion that we may obtain remission of sin and redemption from everlasting death ; through the same, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. Epistle, Isa. Hi : 13 — liii : 12. Gospel, John xviii : l-xix:42, or The Passion History. EASTER. Introit. WHEN I awake, I am still with Thee. Hallelujah ! : Thou hast laid Thine hand upon me. Hallelujah ! Such knowledge is too wonderful for me : it is high, I cannot attain unto it. Hallelujah ! Hallelujah ! Ps. O Lord, Thou hast searched me, and known me : Thou knowest my down-sitting and mine uprising. Glory be to the Father, fyc. or, HE is risen, Hallelujah ! : Why seek ye the Living among the dead? Hallelujah! Remember how He spake unto you, Hallelujah : the Son of man must be crucified, and the third day rise again. Hallelujah ! Hallelujah ! Ps. Thou crowmedst Him with glory and honor : Thou madest Him to have dominion over the works of thy hands. Glory be to the Father, fyc. 42 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. The Collect for Easter Eve. OGOD, Who didst enlighten this most holy night with the glory of the Lord's Resurrection ; Preserve in all Thy people the spirit of adoption which Thou hast given, so that renewed in body and soul they may perform unto Thee a pure service; through the same, our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. The Collect/or Easter Day. ALMIGHTY God, Who, through Thine Only-Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, hast overcome death, and opened unto us the gate of everlasting life ; We humbly beseech Thee, that, as Thou dost put into our minds good desires, so by Thy continual help we may bring the same to good effect ; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Other Easter Collects. a RANT, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that we who celebrate Thy Paschal Feast, kindled with heavenly desires, may ever thirst for the Fountain of Life, Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. QRANT, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that we who celebrate the solemnities of the Lord's Resur- rection, may by the renewal of Thy Holy Spirit rise again from the death of the soul ; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Epistle, 1 Cor. v : 6-8. Gospel, Mark xvi : 1-8. EASTER MONDAY. The Introit and the Collect are the same as for Easter Day. Epistle, Acts x : 34-41. Gospel, Luke xxiv : 13-35. FIRST SUNDAY AFTER EASTER (QUASIMODO GENITI). Introit. AS newborn babes : desire the sincere milk of the Word. Hear, O my people, and I will testify unto thee : O Israel, if thou wilt hearken unto me. SUNDAYS AFTER EASTER. 43 Ps. Sing aloud unto God our strength : make a joyful noise unto the God of Jacob. Glory be to the Father, S?c. Collect. /^\ RANT, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that we \JT who have celebrated the solemnities of the Lord's Resurrection, may, by the help of Thy grace, bring forth the fruits thereof in our life and conversation ; through the same Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 John v: 4-12. Gospel, John xx : 19-31. SECOND SUNDAY AFTER EASTER (MISERICORDIAS). L droit. THE earth is full of the goodness of the Lord : By the Word of the Lord were the heavens made. Ps. Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous : for praise is comely for the upright. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. &OD, Who, by the humiliation of Thy Son, didst raise up the fallen world ; Grant unto Thy faithful ones perpetual gladness, and those whom thou hast delivered from the danger of everlasting death, do Thou make par- takers of eternal joys ; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Peter ii : 21-25. Gospel, John x: 11-16. THIRD SUNDAY AFTER EASTER (JUBILATE). Intro it. MAKE a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands : Sing forth the honor of His Name ; make His praise glorious. Ps. Say unto God, how terrible art Thou in Thy works: through the greatness of Thy power shall Thine enemies submit themselves unto Thee. Glory be to the Father, fyc. 44 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. Collect. ALMIGHTY God, Who showest to them that be in error the light of Thy truth, to the intent that they may return into the way of righteousness ; Grant unto all them that are admitted into the fellowship of Christ's Re- ligion that they may eschew those things that are contrary to their profession, and follow all such things as are agree- able to the same ; through our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Peter ii : 11-20. Gospel, John xvi : 16-23. FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER EASTER (CANTATE). Introit. OSING unto the Lord a new song : for He hath done marvellous things. The Lord hath made known His salvation : His right- eousness hath He openly showed in the sight of the heathen. Ps. His right hand, and His holy arm : hath gotten Him the victory. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OGOD, Who makest the minds of the faithful to be of one will ; Grant unto Thy people that they may love what Thou commandest, and desire what Thou dost promise ; that among the manifold changes of this world, our hearts may there be fixed where true joys are to be found ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, James i : 16-21. Gospel, John xvi : 5-15. FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER EASTER (ROGATE). Introit. WITH the voice of singing declare ye, and tell this : utter it even to the end of the earth. Hallelujah. The Lord hath redeemed His servant Jacob : Hallelujah, Hallelujah. Ps. Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands : sing forth the honor of His Name ; make His praise glorious. Glory be to the Father, S?c. SUNDAYS AFTER EASTER. 45 Collect. OGOD, from Whom all good things do come ; Grant to us Thy humble servants, that by Thy holy inspir- ation we may think those things that be right, and by Thy merciful guiding may perform the same ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, James i : 22-27. Gospel, John xvi : 23-30 ASCENSION DAY. Introit. YE men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven ? : Hallelujah ! This same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven : Hallelujah ! Hallelujah ! Ps. clap your hands, all ye people : shout unto God with the voice of triumph. Glory be to the Father,, fyc. Collect. GRANT, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that lijke as we do believe Thy Only-Begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to have ascended into the heavens ; so may we also in heart and mind thither ascend, and with Him continually dwell, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. OKING of Glory, Lord of Hosts, Who didst this Day ascend in triumph far above all heavens ; We beseech Thee leave us not comfortless, but send to us the Spirit of Truth, promised of the Father ; O Thou, who, with the Father and the Holy Ghost, livest and reignest ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Acts i : 1-11. Gosjiel, Mark xvi : 14-20. SUNDAY AFTER ASCENSION (EXAUDI). Introit. HEAR, Lord, when I cry with my voice : Hallelujah. When Thou saidst, seek ye My face ; my heart said unto Thee, Thy face, Lord, will I seek : Hide not Thy face from me. Hallelujah, Hallelujah. 46 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. Ps. The Lord is my Light, and my Salvation : whom shall I fear ? Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. ALMIGHTY, Everlasting God ; Make us to have al- ways a devout will towards Thee, and to serve Thy Majesty with a pure heart ; through Thy Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Peter iv: 7-11. Gospel, John xv: 26 — xvi : 4. WHITSUNDAY. Introit. THE Spirit of the Lord filleth the world : Hallelujah ! Let the righteous be glad ; let them rejoice before God : yea, let them exceedingly rejoice. Hallelujah ! Hallelujah ! Ps. Let God arise ; let His enemies be scattered : let them also that hate Him flee before Him. Glory be to the Father, Sfc. Collect. OGOD, Who didst teach the hearts of Thy faithful people, by sending to them the light of Thy Holy Spirit ; Grant us by the same Spirit to have a right judg- ment in all things, and evermore to rejoice in His holy comfort ; through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, who with Thee and the Holy Ghost liveth and reigneth, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Acts ii : 1-13. Gospel, John xiv: 23-31. MONDAY IN WHITSUN-WEEK. The Introit is the same as for Whitsunday. Collect. OGOD, Who didst give Thy Holy Spirit to Thine Apostles ; Grant unto Thy people the performance of their petitions, so that on us to whom Thou hast given faith, Thou mayest also bestow peace ; through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, who with Thee and the Holy Ghost liveth and reigneth, ever one God. world without end. Amen. Epistle, Acts x; 42-48. Gospel, John iii : 16-21. SUNDAYS AFTER TRINITY. 47 THE FESTIVAL OF THE TRINITY. Introit. BLESSED be the Holy Trinity, and the undivided Unity : Let us give glory to Him because He hath shown His mercy to us. * Ps. O Lord, our Lord : how excellent is Thy Name in all the earth ! Glory be to the Father, fyc. Or, HOLY, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of Hosts: of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all. things. Ps. O Lord, our Lord: how excellent is Thy Name in all the earth. Glory be to the Pother, fyc. Collect. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who hast given unto us, Thy servants, grace, by the confession of a true faith, to acknowledge the glory of the Eternal Trin- ity, and in the power of the Divine Majesty to worship the Unity ; We beseech Thee, that Thou wouldest keep us steadfast in this faith, and evermore defend us from all ad- versities, who livest and reignest, one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Romans xi : 33-3G. Gospel, John iii : 1-15. FIRST SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. OLORD, I have trusted in Thy mercy : my heart shall rejoice in Thy salvation. I will sing unto the Lord : because He hath dealt bounti- fully with me. Ps. How long wilt Thou forget me, O Lord?: How long wilt Thou hide Thy face from me ? Glory be to the Father, Sfc. Collect. OGOD, the strength of all them that put their trust in Thee ; Mercifully accept our prayers ; and because through the weakness of our mortal nature we can do no 48 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. good tiling without Thee, grant us the help of Thy grace, that in keeping Thy commandments we may please Thee, both in will and deed ; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 John iv: 16-21. Gospel, Luke xvi: 19-31. SECOND SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit THE Lord was my stay ; He brought me forth also into a large place : He delivered me, because He delighted in me. Ps. I will love Thee, O Lord, my strength : The Lord is my Rock, and my Fortress. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OLORD, Who never failest to help and govern those whom Thou dost bring up in Thy steadfast fear and love ; Make us to have a perpetual fear and love of Thy holy Name; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 John iii : 13-18. Gospel, Luke xiv : 16-24. THIRD SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. TURN Thee unto me, and have mercy upon me : for I am desolate and afflicted. Look upon mine affliction and my pain : and forgive all my sins. Ps. Unto Thee, Lord, do I lift up my soul : O my God, I trust in Thee, let me not be ashamed. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OGOD, the Protector of all that trust in Thee, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy ; Increase and multiply upon us Thy mercy ; that Thou being our Ruler and Guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that we tinally lose not the things eternal ; through Jesus SUNDAYS AFTER TRINITY. 49 Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amer^ Epistle, 1 Peter v : 6-11. Gospel, Luke xv : 1-10. FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. THE Lord is my Light and my Salvation ; whom shall I fear ? : The Lord is the strength of my life ; of whom shall I be afraid ? When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me : they stumbled and fell. Ps. Though an host should encamp against me : my heart shall not fear. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. f^\ RANT, O Lord, we beseech Thee, that the course of \JT this world may be so peaceably ordered by Thy governance, that Thy Church may joyfully serve Thee in all godly quietness ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Rom. viii : 18-23. Gospel, Luke vi : 36-42, FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Intro it. HEAR, Lord, when I cry with my voice : Thou hast been my help. Leave me not, neither forsake me : O God of my sal- vation. Ps. The Lord is my Light and my Salvation : whom shall I fear ? Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect OGOD, Who hast prepared for them that love Thee such good things as pass man's understanding ; Pour into our hearts such love toward Thee, that we, loving Thee above all things, may obtain Thy promises, which ex- ceed all that we can desire; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle; 1 Peter iii : 8-15. Gospel, Luke v: 1-11. 50 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. SIXTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. THE Lord is the strength of His people : He ia the saving strength of His anointed. Save Thy people, and bless Thine inheritance : feed them also, and lift them up forever. Ps. Unto Thee will I cry, O Lord, my Rock ; be not silent unto me : lest if Thou be silent to me, I become like them that go down into the pit. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. LORD of all power and might, Who art the Author and Giver of all good things ; Graft in our hearts the love of Thy Name, increase in us true religion, nourish us with all goodness, and of Thy great mercy keep us in the same ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle , Rom. vi: 3-11. Gospel, Matt, v: 20-26. O SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. CLAP your hands, all ye people : Shout unto God with the voice of triumph. Ps. He shall subdue the people under us : and the nations under our feet. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OGOD, Whose never-failing Providence ordereth all things both in heaven and earth ; We humbly be- seech Thee to put away from us all hurtful things, and to give us those things which be profitable for us ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world with- out end. Amen. Epistle, Romans vi : 19-23. Gospel, Mark viii: 1-9. EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. E have thought of Thy loving-kindness, God : in the midst of Thy Temple. According to Thy Name, O God, so is Thy praise w SUNDAYS AFTER TRINITY. 51 unto the ends of the earth : Thy right hand is full of right- eousness. Ps. Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised : in the city of our God, in the mountain of His holiness. Glory be to the Father, 8?c. Collect, a RANT to us, Lord, we beseech Thee, the Spirit to think and do always such things as are right ; that we, who cannot do anything that is good without Thee, may by Thee be enabled to live according to Thy will ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Romans viii : 12-17. Gospel, Matt, vii : 15-23. NINTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. BEHOLD, God is mine Helper : the Lord is with them that uphold my soul. He shall reward evil unto mine enemies : cut them off in Thy truth, O Lord. Ps. Save me, O God, by Thy Name : and judge me by Thy strength. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. LET Thy merciful ears, O Lord, be open to the prayers of Thy humble servants ; and that they may obtain their petitions make them to ask such things as shall please Thee; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Cor. x: 6-13. Gospel, Luke xvi: 1-9. TENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY, Introit. AS for me, I will call upon God ; and He shall hear my voice : He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me. God shall hear and afflict them ; even He that abid- eth of old : Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee. 52 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. Ps. Give ear to my prayer, God : and hide not Thy- self from my supplication. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OGOD, Who declarest Thine Almighty power chiefly in showing mercy and pity ; Mercifully grant unto us such a measure of Thy grace, that we, running the way of Thy commandments, may obtain Thy gracious promises, and be made partakers of Thy heavenly treasure ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world with- out end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Cor. xii: 1-11. Gospel, Lukexix: 41-48. ELEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. GOD is in His holy habitation, He is God who setteth the solitary in families : The God of Israel is He that giveth strength and power unto His people. Ps. Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered : let them also that hate Him flee before Him. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who art always more ready to hear than we to pray, and art wont to give more than either we desire or deserve ; Pour down upon us the abundance of Thy mercy, forgiving us those things whereof our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things which we are not worthy to ask, but through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Cor. xv : 1-10. Gospel, Luke xviii: 9-14. TWELFTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. MAKE haste, O God, to deliver me : make haste to help me, O Lord. Let them be ashamed and confounded : that seek after my soul. SUNDAYS AFTER TRINITY. 53 Ps. Let them be turned backward, and put to confusion : that desire my hurt. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. ALMIGHTY and merciful God, of Whose only gift it cometh that Thy faithful people do unto Thee true and laudable service ; Grant, we beseech Thee, that we may so faithfully serve Thee in this life, that we fail not finally to attain Thy heavenly promises ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, true God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 2 Cor. iii : 4-11. Gospel, Mark vii: 31-37. THIRTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit, HAVE respect, Lord, unto Thy covenant : O let not the oppressed return ashamed. Arise, God, plead Thine own cause : and forget not the voice of Thine enemies. Ps. God, why hast Thou cast us off forever : "Why doth Thine anger smoke against the sheep of Thy pasture ? Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Give unto us the increase of faith, hope, and charity ; and that we may obtain that which Thou dost promise, make us to love that which Thou dost command; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Gal. iii: 15-22. Gospel, Luke x: 23-37. FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. BEHOLD, God our shield, and look upon the face of Thine Anointed: For a day in Thy courts is better than a thousand. Ps. How amiable are Thy tabernacles, Lord of Hosts : 54 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord. Glory be to the Father ', fyc. Collect. KEEP, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy Church with Thy perpetual mercy ; and, because the frailty of man without Thee cannot but fall, keep us ever by Thy help from all things hurtful, and lead us to all things profit- able to our salvation ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Gal. v: 16-24. Gospel, Luke xvii: 11-19. FIFTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. BOW down Thine ear, O Lord, hear me : O Thou, my God, save Thy servant that trusteth in Thee. Be merciful to me, O Lord : for I cry unto Thee daily. Ps. Rejoice the soul of Thy servant : for unto Thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OLORD, we beseech Thee ; Let Thy continual pity cleanse and defend Thy Church ; and because it can- not continue in safety without Thy succor, preserve it ever- more by Thy help and goodness ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Gal. v : 25— yi: 10. Gospel, Matt, vi : 24-34. SIXTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. BE merciful unto me, O Lord: for I cry unto Thee daily. For Thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive: and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon Thee. Ps. Bow down Thine ear, O Lord, hear me : for I am poor and needy. Glory be to the Father, fyc. SUNDAYS AFTER TRINITY. 55 Collect, LORD, we pray Thee, that Thy grace may always go before and follow after us, and make us continually to be given to all good works ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle. Eph. iii: 13-21. Gospel, Luke vii: 11-17. SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. EIGHTEOUS art Thou, Lord, and upright are Thy judgments: Deal with Thy servant according to Thy mercy. Ps. Blessed are the undefiled in the way : who walk in the law of the Lord. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. LORD, we beseech Thee ; Grant Thy people grace, to withstand the temptations of the devil, and with pure hearts and minds to follow Thee, the only God ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world with- out end. Amen. Epistle, Eph. iv: 1-6. Gospel, Luke xiv: 1-11. EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. REWARD them that wait for Thee, O Lord : and let Thy prophets be found faithful. Hear the prayer of Thy servants : and of Thy people Israel. Ps. I was glad when they said unto me : Let us go into the house of the Lord. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OGOD, forasmuch as without Thee we are not able to please Thee ; Mercifully grant, that Thy Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Cor. i: 4-9. Gospel, Matt, xxii: 34-46. 56 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. NINETEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. SAY unto my soul, I am Thy salvation : The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth ; He delivereth them out of all their troubles: He is their God forever and ever. Ps. Give ear, O my people, to my law; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. O ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, of Thy bounti- ful goodness keep us, we beseech Thee, from all things that may hurt us ; that we, being ready, both in body and soul, may cheerfully accomplish those things that thou wouldest have done ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Eph. iv: 22-28. Gospel, Matt, ix: 1-8. TWENTIETH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. THE Lord our God is righteous in all His works which He doeth : for we obeyed not His voice. Give glory. to Thy Name, O Lord : and deal with us ac- cording to the multitude of Thy mercies. Ps. Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised : in the city of our God, in the mountain of His holiness. Glory be to the Father, S?c. Collect. &RANT, we beseech Thee, merciful Lord, to Thy faithful people pardon and peace, that they may be cleansed from all their sins, and serve Thee with a quiet mind ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liv- eth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Eph. v: 15-21. Gospel, Matt, xxii : 1-14. SUNDAYS AFTER TRINITY. 57 TWENTY-FIRST SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. THE whole world is in Thy power, O Lord, King Al- mighty : there is no man that can gainsay Thee. For Thou hast made heaven and earth, and all the wondrous things under the heaven : Thou art Lord of all. Ps. Blessed are the un denied in the way : who walk in the law of the Lord. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect, LORD, we beseech Thee to keep Thy household, the Church, in continual godliness ; that through Thy protection it may be free from all adversities, and devoutly given to serve Thee in good works, to the glory of Thy Name ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Eph. vi : 10-17. Gospel, John iv: 46-54. TWENTY-SECOND SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. IF Thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities: Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with Thee: that Thou mayest be feared, O God of Israel. Ps. Out of the depths have I cried unto Thee, O Lord : Lord, hear my voice. Glory be to the Father, tyc. Collect. OGOD, our refuge and strength, Who art the Author of all godliness ; Be ready, we beseech Thee, to hear the devout prayers of Thy Church ; and grant that those things which we ask faithfully, we may obtain effectually; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Phil, i: 3-11. Gospel, Matt, xviii : 23-35. 58 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY, Introit. I KNOW the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord : thoughts of peace, and not of evil. Then shall ye call upon Me, and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you : and I will turn your captivity, and gather you from all nations and from all places. Ps. Lord, Thou hast been favorable unto Thy land : Thou hast brought back the captivity of Jacob. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. ABSOLVE, we beseech Thee, Lord, Thy people from their offences ; that from the bonds of our sins which, by reason of our frailty, we have brought upon us, we may be delivered by Thy bountiful goodness ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world with- out end. Amen. Epistle, Phil, iii : 17-21. Gospel, Matt, xxii: 15-22. TWENTY-FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. OCOME, let us worship and bow down : let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. For He is our God : and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand. Ps. O come, let us sing unto the Lord : let us make a joyful noise to the Rock of our salvation. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. STIR up, we beseech Thee, Lord, the wills of Thy faithful people ; that they, plenteously bringing forth the fruit of good works, may of Thee be plenteously re- warded ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever cne God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Col. i: 9-14. Gospel, Matt, ix : 18-26. SUNDAYS AFTER TRINITY. 59 TWENTY-FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. HAYE mercy upon me, O Lord, for I am in trouble: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me. Let me not be ashamed, Lord : for I have called upon Thee. Ps. In Thee, O Lord, do I put my trust : let me never be ashamed. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. ALMIGHTY God, we beseech Thee, Show Thy mercy unto thy humble servants, that we who put no trust in our own merits may not be dealt with after the severity of Thy judgment, but according to Thy mercy; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 1 Thess. iv: 13-18. Gospel, Matt, xxiv: 15-28. TWENTY-SIXTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. Introit. SAYE me, God, by Thy Name: and judge me by Thy strength. Hear my prayer, O God : give ear to the words of my mouth. Ps. He shall reward evil to mine enemies : cut them off in Thy truth. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. OGOD, so rule and govern our hearts and minds by Thy Holy Spirit, that being ever-mindful of the end of all things, and the day of Thy just judgment, we may be stirred up to holiness of living here, and dwell with Thee forever hereafter : through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, 2 Peter iii: 3-14, or 2 Thess. i: 3-10. Gospel, Matt, xxv: 31-46. 60 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. TWENTY-SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY. % The Introit and Collect for the Twenty -third Sunday after Trinity shall be used on the Last Sunday after Trinity in every year. Epistle, 1 Thess. v: 1-11. Gospel, Matt, xxv : 1-13. THE FESTIVAL OF HARVEST. Introit. OLORD, Thou crownest the year with Thy goodness : and Thy paths drop fatness. Thou visitest the earth and waterest it : Thou blessest the springing thereof. Ps. Praise waiteth for Thee, O God, in Zion : and unto Thee shall the vow be performed. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. ALMIGHTY God, most merciful Father, Who openest Thy hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing; we give Thee most humble and hearty thanks that Thou hast crowned the fields with Thy blessing, and hast permitted us once more to gather in the fruits of the earth ; and we beseech Thee to bless and protect the living seed of Thy Word sown in our hearts, that in the plenteous fruits of righteousness we may always present to Thee an acceptable thank-offering ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. THE FESTIVAL OF THE REFORMATION. Introit. THE Lord of Hosts is with us : the God of Jacob is our refuge. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed : and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea. Ps. God is our refuge and strength : a very present help in trouble. Glory be to the Father, fyc* DAY OF THANKSGIVING. 61 Collect. OLORD God, Heavenly Father ; Pour out, we beseech Thee, Thy Holy Spirit upon Thy faithful people, keep them steadfast in Thy grace and truth, protect and comfort them in all temptation, defend them against all en- emies of Thy Word, and bestow upon Christ's Church mil- itant Thy saving peace ; through the same, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. A DAY OF HUMILIATION" AND PRAYER. Introit. HEAR, O heavens, and give ear, O earth, for the Lord hath spoken : I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me. They have forsaken the Lord, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unio anger : they are gone away back- ward. Ps. If Thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities : Lord, who shall stand ? [_On this day the Gloria Patri is omitted.~\ Collect. ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, our heavenly Father, of whose compassion there is no end, Who art long-suffering, gracious, and plenteous in goodness and truth ; forgiving iniquity, transgression and sin ; we have sinned and done perversely, we have forsaken and grievously offended Thee ; against Thee, Thee only, have we sinned and done evil in Thy sight ; But we beseech Thee, O Lord, remember not against us former iniquities ; let Thy tender mercies speedily prevent us, for we are brought very low ; help us, God of our salvation, and purge away our sins, for the glory of Thy holy Name, and for the sake of Thy dear Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ, who liveth and reign- eth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. A DAY OF GENERAL OR SPECIAL THANKSGIVING. Introit. LET every thing that hath breath praise the Lord : praise ye the Lord. Praise Him for His mighty acts : praise Him according to His excellent greatness. 62 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. Ps. Praise ye the Lord ; praise God in His sanctuary praise Him in the firmament of His power, Glory be to the Father, Sfc. Collect. ALMIGHTY God, our Heavenly Father, Whose mer- cies are new unto us every morning, and who, though we have in no wise deserved Thy goodness, dost abun- dantly provide for all our wants of body and soul ; Give us, we pray Thee, Thy Holy Spirit, that we may heartily acknowledge Thy merciful goodness toward us, give thanks for all Thy benefits, and serve Thee in willing obedience ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. , THE PRESENTATION OF CHRIST. The Introit is the same as for the Eighth Sunday after Trinity. Collect. ALMIGHTY and Everliving God, we humbly beseech Thy Majesty, that as Thine Only-Begotten Son was this day presented in the temple in substance of our flesh, so we may be presented unto Thee with pure and clean hearts, by the same, Thy Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Malachi iii : 1-4. Gospel, Luke ii : 22-32. THE ANNUNCIATION. . * Introit. ALL the rich among the people shall entreat Thy favor : She shall be brought unto the King in raiment of needle-work. Her companions shall be brought unto Thee : with glad- ness and rejoicing. Ps. My heart is inditing a good matter : I speak of the things which I have made touching the King. Glory be to the Father, fyc. apostles' and martyrs' DATS. 63 Collect. WE beseech Thee, O Lord, Pour Thy grace into our hearts ; that as we have known the Incarnation of Thy Son Jesus Christ by the message of an Angel, so by His Cross and Passion we may be brought unto the glory of His Resurrection ; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, w^orld without end. Amen. Epistle, Isaiah vii : 10-16. Gospel, Luke i: 26-38. . THE VISITATION. The Introit is the same as for the Annunciation, Collect. ALMIGHTY God, Who hast dealt wonderfully with Thy handmaiden the Virgin Mary, and hast chosen her to be the mother of Thy Son, and hast graciously made known that Thou regardest the poor and the lowly and the despised; Grant us grace in all humility and meekness to receive Thy Word with hearty faith, and so to be made one with Thy dear Son ; who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. Epistle, Isaiah xi : 1-5. Gospel, Luke i: 39-56. EVANGELISTS', APOSTLES', AND MARTYRS' DAYS. Introit. IKXOW whom I have believed : and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day. There is laid up for me a crown of righteousness : which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me. Ps. O Lord, Thou hast searched me and known me : Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collects. O ALMIGHTY God, Who hast built Thy Church upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the Head Corner-Stone ; Grant us so to be joined together in unity of spirit by their doc- trine, that we may be made a holy temple acceptable untc 64 INTROITS AND COLLECTS. Thee ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liv eth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. O ALMIGHTY God, Who hast instructed Thy holy Church with the heavenly doctrine of Thy Evange- lists and Apostles ; Give us grace, that being not like chil- dren carried away with every blast of vain doctrine, we may be established in the truth of Thy holy Gospel ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. O ALMIGHTY God, Who hast knit together Thine elect in one communion and fellowship in the mystical body of Thy Son Christ our Lord ; Grant us grace so to follow Thy blessed Saints in all virtuous and godly liv- ing, that we may come to those unspeakable joys which Thou hast prepared for those who unfeignedly love Thee ; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world with- out end. Amen. \The Epistles and Gospels for Apostles 9 Days and other Minor Festivals are to be found in the Tables. ~\ ST. MICHAEL'S DAY. Introit. BLESS the Lord, ye His Angels, that excel in strength: that do His commandments, hearkening unto the voice of His word. Bless ye the Lord, all ye His hosts : ye ministers of His that do His pleasure. Ps. Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me bless His holy Name. Glory be to the Father, fyc. Collect. O EVERLASTING God, Who hast ordained and con- stituted the services of Angels and men in a wonder- ful order; Mercifully grant, that as Thy holy Angels al- ways do Thee service in heaven, so by Thy appointment they may succor and defend us on earth ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Epistle, Revelation xii : 7-12. Gospel, Matt, xviii : 1-11. INVITATORIES, ANTIPHONS, RESPONSOR1ES AND VERSICLES FOR THE CHURCH YEAR. ^f The Invitatory varies with the Season, and is always used ivith Psalm xcv. at Matins. It is divided into two parts separated by a colon. The first part, or the whole, of the Invitatory may be sung or said by the Minister, or sung by a single voice, or by the choir, before the Psalm; and after the Psalm and Gloria Patri, the whole Invitatory shall be sung. ^f An Antipbon is used at Matins and Vespers to the Psalms, the Magnif- icat, the Nunc Dimittis and the Benedictus. It is used in the same manner as the Invitatory. ^f The Responsory varies with the Season, and may be sung after the last Lesson at Vespers and Matins. At the end of the Responsory is sung Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, (but not u As it was in the beginning, <$*c"), followed by the repetition of the last sentence of the Responsory. \ A Versicle may be used at Vespers after the Hymn, and at Vespers and Matins before the closing Collect. A Versicle is used before the Litany Collects. The first p art of the Versicle is said by the Minister, and the second part sung or said by the people. ADVENT. Invitatory. BEHOLD, the King cometh : come, let us worship Him. Arvtiphons. 1. Behold, the Name of the Lord cometh from far: and let the whole earth be filled with His glory. 2. Come, O Lord, and make no tarrying : loosen the bonds of Thy people Israel. 3. Rejoice greatly, Jerusalem : behold, Thy King cometh. 4. Behold, the Lord shall come, and all His saints with Him : and in that day the light shall be great. Hallelujah. Respojisory. BEHOLD, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. And this is His Name whereby He shall be called, The Lord our Righteousness. (65) 66 INVITATORIES, ANTIPHONS, Verse. In His days shall Judah be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely. And this is His Name whereby He shall be called, the Lord our Righteousness. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. And this is His Name whereby He shall be called, the Lord our Righteousness. Versicles. i. Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined : Answer. Our God shall come. Hallelujah. 2. Prepare ye the way of the Lord. Hallelujah ! Make His paths straight. Hallelujah. 3. Drop down, ye heavens, from above, and let the skies pour down righteousness : Let the earth open and bring forth salvation. CHRISTMAS. Invitatory. T~NTO us the Christ is born : O come, let us worship U Him. Antiphons. 1. The Lord hath said unto me : Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten Thee. 2. The Lord hath sent redemption unto His people : He hath commanded His covenant forever. 3. Of the fruit of thy body : will I set upon thy throne. 4. Christ the Lord, our Saviour, Everlasting God and Mary's Son : we praise Thee evermore. Responsory. THE Word was made flesh and dwelt among us. And we beheld His glory, the glory as of the Only-Begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. Verse. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Full of grace and truth. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, Full of grace and truth. RESPONSORIES, YERSICLES. 67 Versicles. 1. At even ye shall know that the Lord will come : And in the morning, then shall ye see the glory of the Lord. 2. As the bridegroom from His chamber: Cometh forth the Lord to run His race. 3. The Word was made flesh. Hallelujah. And dwelt among us. Hallelujah. 4. Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord. God is the Lord, which hath showed us light. 5. Unto us a Child is born. Hallelujah. Unto us a Son is given. Hallelujah. 6. Unto you is born this day a Saviour : Hallelujah. Which is Christ the Lord. Hallelujah. THE EPIPHANY. Invitatory. CHRIST hath appeared unto us : come, let us wor- ship Him. Antiphons. 1. Give unto the Lord glory and strength : worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. 2. The Lord hath made known His Word. Hallelujah : the Word of His salvation. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. 3. A light to lighten the Gentiles : and the glory of Thy people Israel. 4. We have seen His star in the East : and are come to worship Him. Responsoi'y. A RISE, shine, for thy light is come, and the glory of i\ the Lord is risen upon thee. Verse. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising. And the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. And the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. 68 INYITATORIES, ANTIPHONS, Versicles. 1. The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents. Hallelujah. The kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. Hallelujah. 2. All they from Sheba shall come. Hallelujah. They shall bring gold and incense. Hallelujah. 3. praise the Lord, all ye nations. Hallelujah. Praise Him, all ye people. Hallelujah. THE PASSION SEASON. Antiphons. 1. Man shall not live by bread alone : but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 2. Behold, now is the accepted time : behold, now is the day of salvation. 3. The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together : against the Lord and against His Anointed. 4. He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet he opened not His mouth : and the Lord hath laid on Him the ini- quity of us all. Responsory. HE was brought as a lamb to the slaughter, He was op- pressed and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth : He was delivered up to death, that He might quicken His people. Verse. In Salem also is His tabernacle, and His dwelling- place in Zion. He was delivered up to death, that He might quicken His people. Versicles. 1. Save me from the lion's mouth, O Lord. And deliver me from the horns of the unicorns. 2. Christ became obedient unto death : Even the death of the cross. 3. Christ was wounded for our transgressions : He was bruised for our iniquities. RESPONSORIES, YERSICLES. 69 EASTER. Invitatory. The Lord is risen indeed : Hallelujah. Antiphons. 1. Hallelujah!: Hallelujah! Hallelujah! 2. I laid me down and slept ; I awaked : for the Lord sustained me. Hallelujah ! Hallelujah ! 3. Hallelujah! The Lord is risen. Hallelujah: As He said unto you. Hallelujah ! Hallelujah ! 4. Hallelujah! Abide with us, for it is toward evening: And the day is far spent. Hallelujah ! Hallelujah ! Responsory. CHRIST being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over Him. In that He liveth, He liveth unto God. Hallelujah ! Hallelujah ! Verse. Christ was delivered for our offences and raised again for our justification. In that He liveth, He liveth unto God. Hallelujah ! Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. In that He liveth, He liveth unto God. Hallelujah ! Versicles. 1. The Lord is risen from the grave. Hallelujah. Who hung for us upon the tree. Hallelujah. 2. Then were the disciples glad. Hallelujah. When they saw the Lord. Hallelujah. 3. This is the day which the Lord hath made. Hallelujah. We will rejoice and be glad in it. Hallelujah. 4. The Lord is risen indeed. Hallelujah. And hath appeared unto Simon. Hallelujah. H ASCEXSIOX DAY. Invitatory. ALLELUJAH ! The king ascendeth into Heaven O come, let us worship Him. Hallelujah ! 70 INYITATORIES, ANTIPHONS. Antiphons. 1. If I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you : but if I depart, I will send Him unto you. Hallelu- jah. 2. Hallelujah ! Christ hath ascended up on high. Hal- lelujah ! : And hath led captivity captive. Hallelujah ! Hallelujah ! 3. I ascend unto My Father and your Father : and to My God and your God. Hallelujah. Responsory. &0 ye into all the world, and preach the Gospel. Hal- lelujah ! He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved. Hal- lelujah ! Hallelujah ! Verse. In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved. Ver sides. 1. I will not leave you comfortless : Hallelujah ! I go away and come again unto you. Hallelujah. 2. God is gone up with a shout. Hallelujah ! The Lord with the sound of a trumpet. Hallelujah. WHITSUNTIDE. • Invitatory. HALLELUJAH ! The Spirit of the Lord filleth the world: O come, let us worship Him. Hallelujah ! Antiphons. 1. Come, Holy Ghost, and fill the hearts of Thy faithful people, and kindle in them the fire of Thy love : Thou, who through divers tongues gatherest together the nations in the unity of the faith. Hallelujah ! Hallelujah ! 2. Thou sendest forth Thy Spirit, they are created : and Thou renewest the face of the earth. Hallelujah ! Halle- lujah ! 3. I will not leave you comfortless. Hallelujah ! : I will come to you, and your heart shall rejoice. Hallelujah ! RESPONSORIES, YERSICLES. 71 Responsory. AND there appeared unto the Apostles cloven tongues, like as of fire. Hallelujah ! And the Holy Ghost sat upon each of them. Hallelujah ! Hallelujah ! Verse. And they began to speak with other tongues the wonderful works of God. And the Holy Ghost sat upon each of them. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. And the Holy Ghost sat upon each of them. Versicles. 1. The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost. Hallelujah ! He shall teach you all things. Hallelujah ! 2. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost. Hal- lelujah. And they began to speak. Hallelujah ! 3. Create in me a clean heart, God. Hallelujah ! And renew a right spirit within me. Hallelujah ! THE FESTIVAL OF TRINITY. Tnvitatory. THE true God, One in Three and Three in One: O come, let us worship Him. Antiphons. 1. Unto Thee do we call, Thee do we praise, Thee do we worship : O blessed Trinity. 2. Glory be to Thee, Co-equal Trinity : one God before all worlds began, and now, and forevermore. 3. Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty : Which was, and is, and is to come. Responsory. WE bless the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Praise Him and magnify Him forever. Verse. Blessed art Thou, O Lord, in the firmament of heaven, and above all to be praised and glorified forever. Praise Him and magnify Him forever. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. Praise Him and mao:nifv Him forever. 72 INVITATORIES, ANTIPHONS, Versicle. We bless the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost Praise Him and magnify Him forever. i THE FESTIVAL OF THE REFORMATION. Antiphon. WILL speak of Thy testimonies also before kings : and will not be ashamed. Versicles. 1. Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet. Hallelujah ! And a light unto my path. Hallelujah ! 2. The Lord our God be with us. Hallelujah ! As He was with our fathers. Hallelujah ! 3. Do good in Thy good pleasure unto Zion. Hallelujah ! Build Thou the walls of Jerusalem. Hallelujah! 4. Stand fast therefore in the liberty. Hallelujah ! Wherewith Christ hath made you free. Hallelujah ! A DAY OF HUMILIATION AND PRAYER. Antiphon. BE merciful unto me, O Lord, for I cry unto Thee daily : Bow down Thine ear, O Lord, hear me, for I am poor and needy. Versicles. 1. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Thy loving kindness : According unto the multitude of Thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. 2. Enter not into judgment with Thy servant, Lord : For in Thy sight shall no man living be justified. 3. Lord, deal not with us after our sins : Nor reward us according to our iniquities. 4. Create in us a clean heart, O God. And take net Thy Holy Spirit from us. 5. We have sinned with our fathers : We have committed iniquity, we have done wickedly. RESPONSORIES, YERSICLES. 73 THE FESTIVAL OF CHURCH DEDICATION. Antiphon. THE Lord is in His holy temple : the Lord's throne is in Heaven. Versicle. Thy testimonies are very sure. Hallelujah ! Holiness becometh Thine house, Lord, forever. Hal- lelujah ! THE COMMEMORATION OF THE DEAD. Antiphons. 1. God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes : and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain ; for the former things are passed away. 2. O how glorious is that kingdom : wherein all the saints do rejoice with Christ ; they are clothed with white robes and follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. Ver sides. 1. We have here no continuing city. Hallelujah ! But we seek one to come. Hallelujah ! 2. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord. Hallelu- jah! They rest from their labors and their works do follow them. Hallelujah ! FOR OTHER TIMES. Antiphons. 1. Out of the depths : have I cried unto Thee, O Lord. 2. Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty : God hath shined. 3. Commit thy way unto the Lord : trust also in Him. 4. Preserve my life : from the fear of the enemy. 5. It is good to sing praises : unto our God. 6. Forsake not the works : of Thine own hands. 7. The Lord : is the strength of my life. 8. The Lord said unto my Lord : sit Thou at my right hand. * 74 INYITATORIES, ANTIPHONS, 9. Blessed be the Lord God : the God of Israel. 10. Blessed be the Lord out of Zion : Which dwelleth at Jerusalem. 11. Blessed: be His glorious Name forever. 12. I was glad when they said unto me : Let us go into the house of the Lord. 13. In the day of my trouble I will call upon Thee : for Thou wilt answer me. 14. I will praise Thy Name : forever and ever. 15. Thou wilt show me : the path of life. 16. We praise the Lord : now, henceforth and forever. 17. Blessed : is the man that feareth the Lord. Responsory. FOREVER, O Lord, Thy Word is settled in Heaven. Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Lord, I have loved the habitation of Thy house, and the place where Thine honor dwelleth. Verse. Blessed are they that hear the Word of God and keep it. Lord, I have loved the habitation of Thy house, and the place where Thine honor dwelleth. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. Lord, I have loved the habitation of Thy house, and the place where Thine honor dwelleth. Ver sides. 1. The eyes of all wait upon Thee : And Thou givest them their meat in due season. 2. The Lord is merciful and gracious. Hallelujah ! Slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. Hallelujah ! 3. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest : That He would send forth laborers into His harvest. 4. Ask, and ye shall receive : That your joy may be full. 5. give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good. Halle- lujah ! For His mercy endureth forever. Hallelujah ! 6. It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord : And to sing praises unto Thy Name, O Most High. VERSICLES. 75 7. Lord, Thou hast heard the desire of the humble : Thou wilt preserve their heart, Thou wilt cause Thine ear to hear. 8. The Lord will give strength unto His people. Halle- lujah ! The Lord will bless His people with peace. Hallelujah ! 9. They that be wise, shall shine as the brightness of the firmament. Hallelujah ! And they that turn many to righteousness, as the stars forever and ever. Hallelujah ! 10. By Me kings reign, and princes decree justice: By Me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth. 11. He shall give His angels charge over Thee : To keep thee in all thy ways. 12. The Lord God is a sun and shield ; the Lord will give grace and glory. Hallelujah ! No good thing will He withhold from them that walk up- rightly. Hallelujah ! 13. Sanctify us through Thy truth. Hallelujah! Thy Word is truth. Hallelujah ! 14. Lord, teach me to do Thy will. Hallelujah ! Let Thy good Spirit lead me in the right way. Hallelujah ! 15. Show me Thy ways, O Lord. Hallelujah ! Teach me Thy paths. Hallelujah ! 16. Save Thy people, and bless Thine inheritance ; Feed them also, and lift them up forever. 17. Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of Thy Name : Deliver us, and purge away our sins, for Thy Name's sake. 18. I have trusted in Thy mercy. My heart shall rejoice in Thy salvation. 19. Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not : For of such is the kingdom of Heaven. 20. Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy Name : Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits. Hallelujah ! 21. Call upon Me in the day of trouble : I will deliver Thee, and Thou shalt glorify Me. 22. Make me to understand the way of Thy precepts : Strengthen Thou me according to Thy Word. COLLECTS AND PRAYERS. a RANT us, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, a stead- fast faith in Jesus Christ, a cheerful hope in Thy mercy, and a sincere love to Thee and to all our fellow men ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 2. OLORD God, heavenly Father, we give Thee thanks, that of Thy great goodness and mercy, Thou didst suffer Thine Only-Begotten Son to become incarnate, and to redeem us from sin and everlasting death ; and we be- seech Thee, enlighten our hearts, by Thy Holy Spirit, that we may evermore yield Thee unfeigned thanks for this Thy grace, and may comfort ourselves with the same in all time of tribulation and temptation ; through the same Thy dear Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. ALMIGHTY God, Who hast given us commandment to pray for the gift of the Holy Ghost ; Most heartily we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Advocate, to grant us Thy Holy Spirit, that He may quicken our hearts by Thy saving Word, and lead us into all truth, that He may guide, instruct, enlighten, govern, comfort and sanctify us unto everlasting life ; through the same, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 4. SEND, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, Thy Holy Spirit into our hearts, that He may rule and direct us according to Thy will, comfort us in all our temptations and afflictions, defend us from all error, and lead us into all truth ; that we, being steadfast in the faith, may increase in love and in all good works, and in the end obtain ever- lasting life ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 5. ALMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, Who, of Thy tender love towards us sinners, hast given us Thy Son, that believing on Him we might have everlasting life; (76) PRATERS. 77 Grant us, we beseech Thee, Thy Holy Spirit, that we may continue steadfast in this faith to the end, and may come to everlasting life ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who, by Thy Son, hast promised us forgiveness of sins and everlasting life ; We beseech Thee so to rule and govern our hearts by Thy Holy Spirit, that in our daily need, and especially in all time of temptation, we may seek help from Him, and by a true and lively faith in Thy Word obtain the same ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 7. OLORD God, heavenly Father, We beseech Thee, let Thy Holy Spirit dwell in us, that He may en- lighten and lead us into all truth, and evermore defend us from all adversities ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 8. OLORD God, heavenly Father, Who hast given Thine only Son to die for our sins, and to rise again for our justification ; Quicken us, we beseech Thee, by Thy Holy Spirit, unto newness of life, that through the power of His resurrection, we may dwell with Christ forever ; through the same, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 9. ALMIGHTY and Everliving God, Who makest us both to will and to do those things which are good, and ac- ceptable unto Thy Divine Majesty ; Let Thy Fatherly hand, we beseech Thee, ever be over us ; let Thy Holy Spirit eyer be with us ; and so lead us in the knowledge and obedi- ence of Thy Word, that in the end we may obtain everlast- ing life ; through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. FOR THE CHURCH. 10. r^\ RANT, we beseech Thee ; Almighty God, unto Thy VJ Church, Thy Holy Spirit, and the wisdom which cometh down from above, that Thy Word, as becometh it, 78 COLLECTS. may not be bound, but have free course and be preached to the joy and edifying of Christ's holy people, that in stead- fast faith we may serve Thee, and in the confession of Thy Name abide unto the end ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 11. MERCIFUL Lord, we beseech Thee to cast the bright beams of Thy light upon Thy Church, that it being instructed by the doctrine of the blessed Apostles, may so walk in the light of Thy truth, that it may at length attain to the light of everlasting life ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 12. OGOD, our Protector ; Behold, and look upon the face of Thine Anointed, who hath given Himself for the redemption of all, and grant that from the rising of the sun to the going down thereof, Thy Name may be great among the Gentiles, and that in every place, sacrifice and a pure offering may be made unto Thy Name ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 13. OLORD, favorably receive the prayers of Thy Church, that being delivered from all adversity and error, it may serve Thee in safety and freedom ; and grant us Thy peace in our time ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 14. For the Children of the Church. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, who dost will that not one of these little ones should perish, and hast sent Thine Only Son to seek and to save that which was lost, and through Him hast said, Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not ; for of such is the kingdom of God ; Most heartily we beseech Thee so to bless and govern the children of Thy Church, by Thy Holy Spirit, that they may grow in grace and in the knowledge of Thy Word ; protect and defend them against all danger and harm, giving Thy holy Angels charge over them ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. PRAYERS. 79 15. For the Ministers of the Word. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who alone doest great wonders ; Send down upon Thy Ministers, and upon the congregations 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 ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 16. ALMIGHTY and gracious God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who hast commanded us to pray that Thou wouldest send forth laborers into Thy harvest ; Of Thine infinite mercy give us true teachers and ministers of Thy Word, and put Thy saving Gospel in their hearts and on their lips, that they may truly fulfil Thy command, and preach nothing contrary to Thy holy Word ; that we, being warned, instructed, nurtured, comforted and strength- ened by Thy heavenly Word, may do those things which are well-pleasing to Thee, and profitable to us ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 17. O ALMIGHTY God, Who by Thy Son Jesus Christ, didst give to Thy holy Apostles many excellent gifts, and commandedst them earnestly to feed Thy flock ; Make, we beseech Thee, all Pastors diligently to preach Thy holy Word, and the people obediently to follow the same, that they may receive the crown of everlasting glory ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 18. For the Church in its Conflicts, ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who wilt have all men to be saved, and to come to the knowledge of the truth ; We beseech Thy glorious Majesty, through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour, impart the grace and help of Thy Holy Spirit to all ministers of Thy Word, that they may purely teach it to the saving of men ; bring to nought by thine Almighty power and unsearchable wisdom, all the counsels of those who hate Thy Word, and who, by corrupt teaching or with violent hands, would destroy it, and enlighten them with the knowledge of Thy glory ; that 80 COLLECTS. we, leading a quiet and peaceable life, may, by a pure faith, learn the riches of Thy heavenly grace, and in holiness and righteousness serve Thee, the only true God; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 19. For those who have Erred. ALMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, Whose prop- erty it is always to have mercy ; We most earnestly beseech Thee to visit with Thy fatherly correction all such as have erred and gone astray from the truth of Thy holy Word, and to bring them to a due sense of their error, that they may again with hearty faith receive and hold fast Thine unchangeable truth ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 20. O ALMIGHTY, Merciful, and Gracious God and Father, with our whole heart we beseech Thee for all who have forsaken the Christian faith, all who have wandered from any portion thereof, or are in doubt or temptation through the corruptors of Thy Word, that Thou wouldest visit them as a Father, reveal unto them their er- ror, and bring them back from their wanderings, that they, in singleness of heart, taking pleasure alone in the pure truth of Thy Word, may be made wise thereby unto ever- lasting life ; through faith in Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 21. For Unity. OGOD, Who restorest to the right way them that err, who gatherest them that are scattered, and preservest them that are gathered ; Of Thy tender mercy, we beseech Thee, pour upon Thy Christian people, the grace of Unity, that all schisms being healed, Thy flock, united to the true Shepherd of Thy Church, may worthily serve Thee ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 22. For the Removal of Schism. BRING to nought, O Christ, the schisms of heresy, which seek to subvert Thy truth ; That, as Thou art acknowledged in heaven and in earth as one and the same PB AYERS. 81 Lorvi, so Thy people, gathered from all nations, may serve Thee in unity of faith. Amen. 23. For the Jews. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who lovest to show mercy ; Hear the prayers which we offer unto Thee for Tkine ancient people, that, acknowledging Jesus Christ, Who is the Light of truth, they may be delivered from their darkness ; through the same, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 24. For the Heathen. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who desirest not the death of a sinner, but wouldest have all men to repent and live ; Hear our prayers for the Heathen ; take away iniquity from their hearts, and turn them from their idols unto the living and true God, and to Thine only Son ; and gather them into Thy holy Church, to the glory of Thy Name : through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. FOR THE CIVIL AUTHORITIES. 25. O MERCIFUL Father in heaven, Who boldest in Thy hand all the might of man, and who hast ordained the powers that be for the punishment of evil-doers, and for the praise of them that do well, and of whom is all rule and au- thority in the kingdoms of the world ; We humbly beseech Thee, graciously regard Thy servants, the President of the United States, the Governor of this Commonwealth, our Judges and Magistrates, and all the rulers of the earth. May all that receive the sword, as Thy ministers, bear it according to Thy commandment. Enlighten and defend them by Thy Name, God. Grant them wisdom and understanding, that under their peaceable governance, Thy people may be guarded and directed in righteousness, quiet- ness, and unity. Protect and prolong their life, God of our salvation, that we, with them, may show forth the praise of Thy Name ; through Jesus Christ our Lord Amen. 82 COLLECTS. 26. For our Enemies. FORGIVE, we beseech Thee, O Lord, our enemies, and them that despitefully use us, and so change theif hearts that they may walk with us in meekness and peace ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 27. O ALMIGHTY, Everlasting God, Who, througl Thine Only Son, our blessed Lord, hast commanded us to love our enemies, to do good to them that hate us, and to pray for them that persecute us ; We earnestly beseech Thee that by Thy gracious visitation they may be led to true repentance, and may have the same love, and be of one accord, and of one mind and heart with us, and with Thy whole Church ; through the same Thy dear Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 28. In time of National Calamity. LORD God, heavenly Father, we humbly confess unto Thee that by our evil doings and continual dis- obedience, we have deserved these Thy chastisements ; But we earnestly beseech Thee, for Thy Name's sake, to spare us ; restrain the harmful power of the enemy, and succor Thy suffering people; that Thy Word may be declared faith- fully and without hinderance, and that we, amending our sinful lives, may walk obediently to Thy holy command- ments ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 29. LOOK mercifully, O Lord, we beseech Thee, on the af- fliction of Thy people ; and let not our sins destroy us, but let Thine Almighty mercy save us ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 30. MOST loving and gracious Lord God, Who for our many grievous sins art pleased sorely to chasten us, we flee to Thy tender and fatherly compassion alone, be- seeching Thee that as a father pitieth his children Thou wouldest pity us miserable sinners. Turn away Thy right- o PRAYERS. 88 eous wrath, and give us not over to deserved death, but de- liver us, that we may now and evermore praise Thee, O gracious God and Father, who desirest not the death of a sinner, but rather that he may turn from his wickedness and live ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 31. For Prisoners. ALMIGHTY God, Who didst bring the Apostle Peter forth out of prison ; Have mercy upon all who are suffering imprisonment, and set them free from their bonds, that we may rejoice in their deliverance, and continually give praise to Thee ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. o 32. For Peace and Quietness. LORD, we beseech Thee, mercifully to hear the prayers of Thy Church, that we, being delivered from all adversities, and serving Thee with a quiet mind, may enjoy Thy peace all the days of our life ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. IN TIME OF AFFLICTION AND DISTRESS. 33. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, the Consolation of the sorrowful, and the Strength of the weak ; May the prayers of them that in any tribulation or distress cry unto Thee, graciously come before Thee, so that in all their ne- cessities they may mark and receive Thy manifold help and comfort; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 34. ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, Who hast ap- pointed us to endure sufferings and death with our Lord Jesus Christ, before we enter with Him into eternal Glory ; Grant us grace at all times to subject ourselves to Thy Holy will, and to continue steadfast in the true faith unto the end of our lives, and at all times to find peace and joy in the blessed hope of the resurrection of the dead, and of the glory of the world to come ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 84 COLLECTS. 35. ALMIGHTY God, Cast not away Thy people who cry unto Thee in their tribulation : but for the glory of Thy Name, be pleased to succor the afflicted ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 36. For the Sick. ALMIGHTY, Everlasting God, the eternal Salvation of them that believe ; Hear our prayers in behalf of Thy servants who are sick, for whom we implore the aid of Thy mercy, that being restored to health, they may render thanks to Thee in Thy Church ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 37- OLORD, look down from heaven, behold, visit and re- lieve Thy servants, for whom we offer our suppli- cations ; look upon them with the eyes of Thy mercy ; give them comfort and sure confidence in Thee ; defend them from the danger of the enemy, and keep them in perpetual peace and safety ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 38. For Mothers. O ALMIGHTY, Everlasting God and Father, Creator of all things, Who by Thy graoe, through Thy Son, our Lord, who hath redeemed us from the flesh and sin, makest the anguish of our human birth a holy and salutary cross ; We pray Thee, O gracious Father, Lord and God, that Thou wouldest preserve and guard the work of Thine own hand. Forsake not them who cry to Thee in sore travail, but deliver them out of all their pains, to their joy, and to the glory of Thy goodness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 39. In time of Great Sickness. ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, our heavenly Father, we, Thine erring children, humbly confess unto Thee, that we have justly deserved the chastening, which for our sins Thou hast sent upon us ; But we entreat Thee, of Thy boundless goodness to grant us true repent* PRAYERS. 85 ance, graciously to forgive our sins, to remove from us or to lighten our merited punishment, and so to strengthen us by Thy grace that as obedient children we may be subject to Thy will, and bear our afflictions in patience; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 40. In time of Drought. GOD, most merciful Father, we beseech Thee to open o the windows of heaven, and to send a fruitful rain upon us, to revive the earth, and to refresh the fruits thereof, for all things droop and wither ; graciously hear our prayer in this our necessity, that we may praise and glorify Thy Name forever and ever ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 41. In time of Unseasonable Weather. OLORD God, heavenly Father, Who art gracious and merciful, and hast promised that Thou wilt hear us when we call upon Thee in our troubles ; We beseech Thee, look not upon our sins and evil doings, but upon our necessities, and according to Thy mercy send us such seasonable weather, that the earth may in due time yield her increase ; that by Thy goodness we may receive our daily bread, and learn to know Thee as a merciful God, and evermore give thanks to Thee for Thy goodness ; through Jesus Christ, Thy dear Son, our Lord. Amen. THANKSGIVING. 42. OLORD God, heavenly Father, from whom without ceasing we receive exceeding abundantly all good gifts, and who daily of Thy pure grace guardest us against all evil : Grant us, we beseech Thee, Thy Holy Spirit, that acknowledging with our whole heart all this Thy goodness, we may now and evermore thank and praise Thy loving kindness and tender mercy ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 43. ALMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, Whose mer- cies are new unto us every morning, and who, though we have in no wise deserved Thy goodness, dost abundantly 86 COLLECTS. provide for all our wants of body and soul; Give us, we pray Thee, Thy Holy Spirit, that we may heartily ac- knowledge Thy merciful goodness toward us, give thanks for all Thy benefits, and serve Thee in willing obedience ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 44. ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, Who in Thy fatherly wisdom hast chastened us on account of our sins, that we might not continue in impenitence and vain confidence, and thus perish with the ungodly ; in the midst of wrath Thou hast remembered mercy, and hast graciously delivered us out of our affliction. We give Thee therefore most hearty thanks and praise, that Thou hast turned away from us Thy just anger, and shown Thyself favorable to- ward us Thine unworthy servants. Bless the Lord, O my soul : and all that is within me, bless His holy Name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits. Thou, Lord, art merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plente- ous in mercy. Glory be to Thee, O God, for ever ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 45. a LORY be to Thee, God Most Holy. Glory be to Thee, O God Most High. Glory be to Thee, O King of heaven and earth, Who, as a father pitieth his chil- dren, pitiest us. Fill us with joy and gladness in the Holy Ghost, that when Thou shalt render to every man according to his works, we may be found acceptable before Thee, through Him who hath redeemed us from the shame and curse of sin, even Jesus Christ, Thy dear Son, our Lord. A men. FOR SPECIAL GIFTS AND GRACES. 46. For Protection during the Day. LORD, our heavenly Father, Almighty and Ever- lasting God, Who hast safely brought us to the begin- ning of this day ; Defend us in the same with Thy mighty power; and grant that this day we fall into no sin, neither run into any kind of danger ; but that all our doings, being ordered by Thy governance, may'be righteous in Thy sight/ through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. o PRAYERS. 87 47. For Protection during the Night. LIGHTEN our darkness, we beseech Thee. O Lord ; and by Thy great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers of this night; for the love of Thy Only Son, our Saviodr, Jesus Christ. Amen. o 48. For Grace to use our Gifts. LORD God Almighty, Who dost endue Thy servants with divers and singular gifts of the Holy Ghost ; Leave us not, we beseech Thee, destitute of Thy manifold gifts, nor yet of grace to use them alway to Thy honor and glory ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 49. For Grace to receive the Word. BLESSED Lord, Who hast caused all Holy Scriptures to be written for our learning ; Grant that we may in such wise hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly di- gest them, that by patience and comfort of Thy holy Word, w r e may embrace, and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which Thou hast given us in our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 50. For Grace to be led into all Truth. ENLIGHTEN our minds, we beseech Thee, O God, by the Spirit which proceedeth from Thee ; that, as Thy Son hath promised, we may be led into all truth ; through the same our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 51. For Spiritual Renewal. ALMIGHTY God, Who hast given us Thy Only-Be- gotten Son to take our nature upon Him ; Grant that we being regenerate, and made Thy children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by Thy Holy Spirit ; through the same our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 88 COLLECTS, 52. For Penitence. MERCIFUL Father, Give us grace that we may never presume to sin ; but if at any time we offend Thy Divine Majesty, may we truly repent and lament our of- fence, and by a lively .faith obtain remission of all our sins ; solely through the merits of Thy Son, our Saviour Christ. Amen. 53. For Pardon. HEAR, we beseech Thee, Lord, the prayer of Thy suppliants, and spare those who confess their sins unto Thee, that Thou mayest bestow upon us both pardon and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 54. For Deliverance from Sin. WE beseech Thee, O Lord, in Thy clemency to show us Thine unspeakable mercy ; that Thou mayest both set us free from our sins, and rescue us from the pun- ishments which, for our sins, we deserve; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 55. For Grace to do God's Will. A LMIGHTY God, give us grace that we may cast away A the works of darkness, and put upon us the armor of light, now in the time of this mortal life, in which Thy Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility ; that in the last day, when He shall come again in His glorious Majesty to judge both the quick and dead, we may rise to the life immortal ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 5S. For Grace to love and serve God. OGOD, Who, through the grace of Thy Holy Spirit, dost pour the gifts of charity into the hearts of Thy faithful people ; Grant unto Thy servants health both of mind and body, that they may love Thee with their whole strength, and with their whole heart perform those things which are pleasing unto Thee ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. o PRAYERS. 89 57. For Aid against Temptation. GOD, Who justifiest the ungodly, and who desirest not the death of the sinner ; We humbly implore Thy Majesty, that Thou wouldest graciously assist, by Thy heavenly aid, and evermore shield with Thy protection, Thy servants who trust in Thy mercy, that they may be sepa- rated by no temptations from Thee, and, without ceasing, may serve Thee, through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 58. For Faith. ALMIGHTY and Everliving God, Who hast given to them that believe exceeding great and precious prom- ises; Grant us so perfectly, and without all doubt, to believe in Thy Son Jesus Christ, that our faith in Thy sight may never be reproved. Hear us, O Lord, through the same our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 59. For Divine Guidance and Help. DIRECT us, O Lord, in all our doings, with Thy most gracious favor, and further us with Thy continual help; that in all our works begun, continued, and ended in Thee, we may glorify Thy holy Name ; and finally, by Thy mercy, obtain everlasting life ; through Jesus Christ our Lcrd. Amen. 60. O ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, vouchsafe, we be- seech Thee, to direct, sanctify and govern both our hearts and bodies in the ways of Thy laws, and in the works of Thy commandments ; that through Thy most mighty pro- tection, both here and ever, we may be preserved in body and soul ; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 61. For Spiritual Illumination. GRANT, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that the brightness of Thy glory may shine forth upon us, and that the light of Thy light by the illumination of the Holy Spirit may stablish the hearts of all that have been born anew by Thy grace ; through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 90 COLLECTS. 62. For Likeness to Christ. ALMIGHTY God, Who hast given Thine Only Son to be unto us both a sacrifice for sin and also an ensample of godly life ; Give us grace that we may always most thankfully receive that His inestimable benefit, and also daily endeavor ourselves to follow the blessed steps of His most holy life ; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 63. For a Right Knowledge of Chi'ist. ALMIGHTY God, Whom to know is everlasting life ; Grant us perfectly to know Thy Son Jesus Christ to be the way, the truth, and the life ; that following His steps we may steadfastly walk in the way that leadeth to eternal life ; through the same, Thy Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. o o 64. For the Holy Spirit. LORD God, heavenly Father, Who by the blessed light of Thy divine Word hast led us to the knowledge of Thy Son ; We most heartily beseech Thee so to replenish us with the grace of Thy Holy Spirit, that we may ever walk in the light of Thy truth, and rejoicing with sure confidence in Christ our Saviour, may in the end be brought unto ever- lasting salvation ; through the same, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 65. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who of Thy great mercy in Jesus Christ Thy Son dost grant us forgive- ness of sin, and all things pertaining to life and godliness ; Grant us, we beseech Thee, Thy Holy Spirit, that He may so rule our hearts, that we, being ever mindful of Thy fatherly mercy, may strive to mortify the flesh, and to over- come the world ; and serving Thee in holiness and pure- ness of living, may give Thee continual thanks for all Thy goodness ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. PRATERS. 91 e>6. For Parity. ALMIGHTY God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid ; Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Thy Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love Thee, and worthily magnify Thy holy Name ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. o 67. For Innocency of Life. GOD, Whose strength is made perfect in weakness ; Mortify and kill all vices in us, and so strengthen us by Thy grace, that by the innocency of our lives, and the constancy of our faith even unto death, we may glorify Thy holy Name ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 68. For Love to God. OGOD, Who makest all things to work together for good to them that love Thee ; Pour into our hearts such steadfast love toward Thee, that the pure desires which by Thy Spirit have been stirred up in us, may not be turned aside by any temptation ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 69. For Charity. OLORD, Who hast taught us that all our doings without charity are nothing worth ; Send Thy Holy Spirit and pour into our hearts that most excellent gift of Charity, the very bond of peace and of all virtues, without which whoso- ever liveth is counted dead before Thee ; grant this for Thine Only Son Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. 70. For Humility. GOD, Who resistest the proud, and givest grace to the humble ; Grant unto us true humility, after the like- ness in which Thine Only Son hath revealed it in Himself, that we may never be lifted up and provoke Thy wrath, but in all lowliness be made partakers of the gifts of Thy grace ; through Christ our Lord. Amen. o 92 COLLECTS, 71. For Patience. OGOD, Who by the meek endurance of Thine Only- begotten Son didst beat down the pride of the old en- emy ; Help us, we beseech Thee, rightly to treasure in our hearts what our Lord hath of His goodness borne for our sakes ; that after His example we may bear with patience whatsoever things are adverse to us ; through Christ our Lord. Amen, 72. For a Happy Death. CONFIRM, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, Thine un- worthy servants in Thy grace ; that in the hour of our death the adversary may not prevail against us, but that we may be found worthy of everlasting life ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 73. For the Blessedness of Heaven. ALMIGHTY, Everlasting God, Who didst give Thine Only Son to be a High Priest of good things to come ; Hereafter grant unto us, Thine unworthy servants, to have our share in the company of the Blessed ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 74. For Beace. OGOD, Who art the Author of peace and Lover of con- cord, in knowledge of whom standeth our eternal life, whose service is perfect freedom ; Defend us, Thy humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies ; that we, surely trusting in Thy defence, may not fear the power of any ad- versaries, through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. FOR AN ANSWER TO PRAYER. 75. ALMIGHTY God, Who hast given us grace at this time with one accord to make our common suppli- cations unto Thee ; and dost promise that when two or three PRAYERS. 93 are gathered together in Thy Name, Thou wilt grant their requests; Fulfill now, O Lord, the desires an I petitions of Thy servants, as may be most expedient for them ; granting us in this world knowledge of Thy truth, and in the world to come life everlasting. Amen. 76. ALMIGHTY God, the fountain of all wisdom, Who knowest our necessities before we ask, and our ignor- ance in asking ; We beseech Thee to have compassion upon our infirmities ; and those things which for our unworthi- ness we dare not, and for our blindness we cannot ask, vouchsafe to give us, for the worthiness of Thy Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. • 77. ALMIGHTY' God, Who hast promised to hear the petitions of those who ask in Thy Son's Name ; We beseech Thee mercifully to incline Thine ears to us who have now made our prayers and supplications unto Thee ; and grant that those things which we have faithfully asked ac- cording to Thy will, may effectually be obtained, to the re- lief of our necessity, and to the setting forth of Thy glory through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. GENERAL PRAYERS. I. THE LITANY. fl The Litany may be used at Evening Service on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, on Days of Humiliation and Prayer, and at Morning Service on Sundays when there is no Communion. The Responses in italics should be sung or said by the Congregation. The Responses may be repeated after each phrase, or only at the end of each group, as here followeth : Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. m Christ, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. O Christ, hear us. Christ, hear us. O God, the Father in heaven ; Have mercy upon us. O God the Son, Redeemer of the world; Have mercy upon us. O God, the Holy Ghost; Have mercy upon us. Be gracious unto us. Spare us, good Lord. Be gracious unto us. Help us, good Lord. From all sin; From all error ; From all evil : Good Lord, deliver us. From the crafts and assaults of the devil ; From sudden and evil death ; From pestilence and famine ; From war and bloodshed ; From sedition and rebellion ; From lightning and tempest; From all calamity by fire and water ; And from everlasting death : Good Lord, deliver us. By the mystery of Thy holy Incarnation ; (94) THE LITANY. 95 By Thy holy Nativity ; By Thy Baptism, Fasting, and Temptation ; By Thine Agony and B.loody Sweat; By Thy Cross and Passion ; By Thy precious Death and Burial ; By Thy glorious Resurrection and Ascension ; And by the coming of the Holy Ghost, the Con forter : Help us, good Lord, In all time of our tribulation ; In all time of our prosperity ; In the hour of death ; And in the day of judgment: Help us, good Lord. We poor sinners do beseech Thee ; To hear us, Lord God. And to rule and govern Thy holy Christian Church ; To preserve all pastors and ministers of Thy Church in the true knowledge and understanding of Thy Word, and in holiness of life ; To put an end to all schisms and causes of offence ; To bring into the way of truth all such as have erred, and are deceived : To beat down Satan under our feet ; To send faithful laborers into Thy harvest ; To accompany Thy Word with Thy Spirit and grace; To raise up tliem that fall, and to strengthen such as do stand ; And to comfort and help the weak-hearted and the dis- tressed : We beseech Thee to hear us, good Lord. To give to all nations peace and concord ; To preserve our country from discord and contention ; * To give to our nation perpetual victory over all its ene- mies; To direct and defend our President, and all in authority; And to bless and keep our magistrates, and all our people : We beseech Thee to hear us, good Lord. To behold and succor all who are in danger, necessity, and tribulation ; To protect all who travel by land or water ; To preserve all women in the perils of childbirth ; To strengthen and keep all sick persons and young chil- children ; To set free all who are innocently imprisoned ; To defend and provide for all fatherless children and widows : 96 GENERAL PRAYERS. And to have mercy upon all men : We beseech Thee to hear us, good Lord. To forgive our enemies, persecutors, and slanderers, and to turn their hearts ; To give and preserve to our use the fruits of the earth ; And graciously to hear our prayers : We beseech Thee to hear us, good Lord. O Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God ; We beseech Thee to hear us. O Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world ; Have mercy upon us. O Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world ; Have mercy upon us. Lamb of God, that takest away the sin of the world; Grant us Tliy peace. O Christ, hear us. Christ, hear us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Amen. fl Then shall the Minister, and the Congregation with him, say the Lord's Prayer, after which may be said one or more of the Litany Collects here following. OUR Father, who art in heaven ; Hallowed be Thy Name ; Thy kingdom come ; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven ; Give us this day our daily bread ; And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who tres- pass against us ; And lead us not into temptation ; But de- liver us from evil ; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. LITANY COLLECTS. 31. Lord, deal not with us after our sins. C. Neither reward us according to our iniquities. ALMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, Who desirest not the death of a sinner, but rather that he should turn from his evil way and live ; We beseech Thee graciously to turn from us those punishments which we by our sins have deserved, and to grant us grace ever hereafter to serve Thee in holiness and pureness of living ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. LITANY COLLECTS. 97 M. Help us, God of our salvation, for the glory of Thy Name. C. Deliver us, and purge away our sins, for Thy Name's sake. ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who by Thy Holy Spirit dost govern and sanctify the whole Christian Church ; Hear our prayers for all members of the same, and mercifully grant, that by Thy grace they may serve Thee in true faith ; through Jesus Christ Thy Son our Lord. Amen. 3. 31. Lord, deal not with us after our sins. C. Neither reward us according to our iniquities. OGOD, merciful Father, Who despisest not the sighing of a contrite heart, nor the desire of such as are sor- rowful ; Mercifully assist our prayers which we make be- fore Thee in all our troubles and adversities, whensoever they oppress us ; and graciously hear us, that those evils which the craft and subtilty of the devil or man worketh against us, may, by Thy good providence, be brought to nought ; that we Thy servants, being hurt by no perse- cutions, may evermore give thanks unto Thee in Thy holy Church ; through Jesus Christ Thy Son our Lord. Amen. M. Lord, enter not into judgment with Thy servant. C. For in Thy sight shall no man living be justified. ALMIGHTY God, Who knowest us to be set in the midst of so many and great dangers, that by reason of the frailty of our nature we cannot always stand upright : Grant us such strength and protection, as may support us in all dangers, and carry us through all temptations ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 5. M. Call upon Me in the day of trouble. G. I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me. SPARE us, O Lord, and mercifully forgive us our sins, and though by our continual .transgressions we have merited Thy punishments, be gracious unto us, and grant that all those evils which we have deserved, may be turned from us, and overruled to our everlasting good; through Jesus Christ Thy Son our Lord. Amen. 98 GENERAL PRAYERS. For Peace. M. The Lord will give strength unto His people. G. The Lord will bless His people with peace. OGOD, from Whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works do proceed ; Give unto Thy servants that peace, which the world cannot give ; that our hearts may be set to obey Thy commandments, and also that by Thee, we, being defended from the fear of our enemies, may pass our time in rest and quietness ; through the merits of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. II. THE SUFFRAGES. If The Suffrages may be used at Early or Evening Service in the same manner as the Litany. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Our Father, who art in heaven ; Hallowed be Thy Name ; Thy kingdom come ; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven ; Give us this day our daily bread ; And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us ; And lead us not into temptation ; But deliver us from evil. I said ; O Lord, be merciful unto me ; Heal my soul ; for I have sinned against Thee* Return, O Lord, how long ? And let it repent Thee concerning Thy servants. Let Thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us; According as we hope in Thee. Let Thy priests be clothed with righteousness ; And let Thy saints shout for joy. O Lord, save our rulers ; Let the King hear us when we call. Save Thy people, and bless Thine inheritance ; Feed them also, and lift them up for ever. Remember Thy congregation ; Which Thou hast purchased of old. THE SUFFRAGES. 99 Peace be within thy walls ; And prosperity within thy palaces. Let us pray for our absent brethren ; Thou , our God, save TJiy servants that trust in Thee. Let us pray for the broken-hearted and the captives ; Redeem Israel, God, out of all his troubles. Send them help from the Sanctuary And strengthen them out of Zion. Hear my prayer, O Lord ; And let my cry come unto Thee. ^f Then may be said responsively, by the Minister and Congregation, the Psalm De Profundis, at Early Morning Service, and at Evening Ser- vice the Psalm Miserere Mei. Ps. cxxx. De profundis. Out of the depths have I cried : Unto Thee, Lord. Lord, hear my voice : Let Thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. If Thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities : Lord, who shall stand ? But there is forgiveness with Thee : That Thou mayest be feared. I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait : And in His Word do I hope. My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning : 1 say, more than they that watch for the morning. Let Israel hope in the Lord : For with the Lord there is mercy, and ivith Him is plente- ous redemption. And He shall redeem Israel : From all his iniquities. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost : As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. A men. ^[ Or at Evening Service. Ps. li. Miserere mei. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Thy loving kindness : According to the multitude of TJiy tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. 100 GENERAL PRAYERS. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity : And cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions : And my si?i is ever before me. Against Thee, Thee- only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Thy sight : That Thou mightest be justified when Thou speakest, and be clear when Tliou judgest. Behold, I was shapen in iniquity : And in sin did my mother conceive me. Behold, Thou desirest truth in the inward parts : And in the hidden part shalt Thou make me to know wis- dom. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean : Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me to hear joy and gladness : That the bones which Ihou hast broken may rejoice. Hide Thy face from my sins : And blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God : And renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from Thy presence : And take not Thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation : And uphold me with Thy free Spirit. Then will I teach transgressors Thy ways : And sinners shall be converted unto Ihee. Deliver me from blood-guiltiness, O God, Thou God of my salvation : And my tongue shall sing aloud of Thy righteousness. O Lord, open Thou my lips : And my mouth shall show forth Thy praise. For Thou desirest not sacrifice, else would I give it : Thou delightest not in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit : A broken and a contrite heart, God, Thou wilt not de- spise. Do good in Thy good pleasure unto Zion : Build Thou the walls of Jerusalem. Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of right- eousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering : Then shall they offer bidlocks upon Thine Altar. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost : As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. THE MORNING SUFFRAGES. 101 ^f Then shall be said: Turn us again, O God of hosts ; Cause Thy face to shine and we shall he saved. Arise, O Christ, for our help ; . And redeem us, for Thy mercy's sake. Hear my prayer, O Lord ; And let my cry come unto Tliee. The Lord be with you. And with thy spirit. Let us pray. ^f Then may the Minister say a Collect for the Season and any other suitable Collects, and after that he may say this Collect for peace. Give peace in our days, O Lord : Because there is none other that fighteth for its, except Thou, our God. Lord, let there be peace in Thy strength : And abundance in Thy towers. Let us pray. OGOD, from Whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works do proceed ; Give unto Thy ser- vants that peace, which the world cannot give ; that our hearts may be set to obey Thy •commandments, and also that by Thee, we, being defended from the fear of our ene- mies, may pass our time in rest and quietness ; through the merits of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. ^f Then may be sung or said the Benedicamus. Bless we the Lord : Thanks be to God. III. THE MORNING SUFFRAGES. \ To be said at Early Morning Service, or in the Morning Prayer of ths Household. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. 102 GENERAL PRAYERS. If Then shall all say the Lord's Prayer and the Apostles' Creed : OUR Father, Who art in Heaven ; Hallowed be Thy Name ; Thy kingdom come ; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in Heaven ; Give us this day our daily bread ; And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us ; And lead us not into temptation ; But deliver us from evil. Amen. I BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of Heaven and earth ; And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord ; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary ; Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was cru- cified, dead, and buried ; He descended into hell : The third day He rose again from the dead ; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty ; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; The holy Christian Church, the Communion of Saints ; The Forgiveness of sins ; The Resurrection of the body ; And the Life everlasting. Amen. Unto Thee have I cried, O Lord : And in the morning shgll my prayer prevent Thee. Let my mouth be filled with Thy praise : And with Thy honor all the day. O Lord, hide Thy face from my sins : And blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me, O God, a clean heart : And renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from Thy presence : And take not Thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation : And uphold me with Thy free Spirit. Vouchsafe, Lord, this day: To keep us without sin. Have mercy upon us, O Lord: Have mercy upon us. O Lord, let Thy mercy be upon us : As our trust is in Thee. Hear my prayer, O Lord : And let my cry come unto Thee. The Lord be with you : And with thy spirit. Let us pray. THE EVENING SUFFRAGES, 10S ^ Then shall be said the prayer here following, or No. 46 or No. 60 of the Collects and Prayers, or any other suitable prayer. WE give thanks unto Thee, Heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ Thy dear Son, that Thou hast protected us through the night from all danger and harm ; and we be- seech Thee to preserve and keep us, this day also, from all sin and evil ; that in all our thoughts, words and deeds, we may serve and please Thee. Into Thy hands we commend our bodies and souls, and all that is ours. Let Thy holy angel have charge concerning us, that the wicked one have no power over us. A men. Benedicamus. Bless we the Lord. Thanh be to God. IV. THE EVENING SUFFRAGES. ^ To be used at Evening Service, or at the Evening Prayer of the Household. Lord, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us. Lord, have mercy upou us. Lord, have mercy upon us. ^f Then shall all say: OUR Father, Who art in Heaven ; Hallowed be Thy Name ; Thy kingdom come ; Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven ; Give us this day our daily bread ; And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us ; And lead us not into temptation ; But deliver us from evil. Amen. I BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of Heaven and earth ; And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord ; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost ; Born of the Virgin Mary ; Suffered under Pontius Pilate ; Was cruci- fied, dead, and buried ; He descended into hell ; The third day He rose again from the dead ; He ascended into heaven ; And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty ; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost ; The holy Christian Church ; the Communion of Saints ; The Forgiveness of sins ; The Resurrection of the body ; And the Life everlasting. Amen. 104 GENERAL PRAYERS. Blessed art Thou, O Lord God of our fathers : And greatly to be praised and glorified forever. Bless we the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost: We praise and magnify Hi m forever. Blessed art Thou, O Lord, in the firmament ot heaven : And greatly to be praised, and glorified, and highly ex- alted forever. The Almighty and Merciful Lord, bless and preserve us. Amen. Vouchsafe, O Lord, this night : To keep us without sin. O Lord, have mercy upon us. Have mercy upon us. Lord, let Thy mercy be upon us : As our trust is in Thee. Hear my prayer, O Lord : And let my cry come unto Thee. The Lord be with you. And with thy spirit. Let us pray. fl Then shall be said the Prayer here following ', or No. 47 of the Collects and Prayers, or any other suitable prayer. WE give thanks unto Thee, heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Thy dear Son, that Thou hast this day so graciously protected us, and we beseech Thee to forgive us all our sins, and the wrong which we have done, and by Thy great mercy defend us from all the perils and dangers of this night. Into Thy hands we commend our bodies and souls, and all that is ours. Let Thy holy angel have charge concerning us, that the wicked one have no power over us. Amen. Benedicamus. Bless we the Lord. Thanks be to God. V. THE BIDDING PRAYER. ^ By ancient usage this Prayer was specially appointed for Good Friday. Brethren, let us pray for the whole Christian Church, that our Lord God would vouchsafe to defend it against all the assaults and temptations of the adversary, and to keep it perpetually upon the true foundation, Jesus Christ. THE BIDDING PRATER. 105 Almighty and everlasting God, Who hast revealed Thy glory to all nations in Jesus Christ and the word of His truth ; Keep, we beseech Thee, in safety the works of Thy mercy, that so Thy Church, spread throughout all nations, may serve Thee in trne faith, and persevere in the confession of Thy Name ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Let us pray for the Ministers of the Word, for all estates of men in the Church, and for all the people of God. Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of the Church is governed and sanctified ; Receive our supplications and prayers, which we offer be- fore Thee for all estates of men in Thy holy Church, that every member of the same, in his vocation and ministry, may truly and godly serve Thee ; through Christ our Lord. Amen. Let us pray for our Catechumens, that our Lord God would open their hearts and the door of His mercy, that having received the remission of all their sins by the wash- ing of regeneration, they may be mindful of their baptismal covenant, and evermore be found in Christ Jesus our Lord. Almighty and everlasting God, Who dost always multiply Thy Church, and with Thy light and grace dost strengthen the hearts of those whom Thou hast regen- erated, confirming unto them Thy covenant and faithful- ness : Grant unto our Catechumens increase both of faith and knowledge, that they may rejoice in their Baptism and really and heartily renew their covenant with Thee. Amen. Let us pray for all in authority, and especially for the government of the United States, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. O merciful Father in heaven, Who holdest in Thy hand all the might of man, and who hast ordained the powers that be for the punishment of evil-doers, and for the praise of them that do well, and of whom is all rule and authority in the kingdoms of the world; We humbly beseech Thee, graciously regard Thy servants, the Presi- dent of the United States, the Governor of this Common- wealth, our Judges and magistrates, and all the Rulers of the earth ; that all who receive the sword, as Thy minis- ters, may bear it according to Thy commandment ; through Christ our Lord. Amen. 106 GENERAL PRAYERS. Let us pray our Lord God Almighty that He would de- liver the world from all error, take away disease, ward off famine, open the prisons, set free those in bondage, grant a safe return to the wayfarers, health to the sick, and to our mariners a harbor of security. Almighty and everlasting God, the Consolation of the sorrowful, and the Strength of the weak ; May the prayers of them that in any tribulation or distress cry unto Thee graciously come before Thee, so that in all their necessities they may mark and receive Thy manifold help and comfort; through Christ our Lord. Amen. ^f Here may be offered Prayers for Schismatics ; Jews, and Heathen. See Collects and Prayers 19-24. Let us pray for peace, that we may come to the knowledge of God's holy Word, and walk before Him as becometh Christians. Almighty and everlasting God, King of glory, and Lord of heaven and earth, by whose Spirit all things are governed, by whose providence all things are ordered, who art the God of peace, and the author of all concord ; Grant us, we beseech Thee, Thy heavenly peace and con- cord, that we may serve Thee in true fear, to the praise and glory of Thy Name ; through Christ our Lord. Amen. Let us pray for our enemies, that God would remember them in mercy, and graciously vouchsafe unto them such things as are both needful for them and profitable unto their salvation. O almighty, everlasting God, Who, through Thine Only Son, our blessed Lord, hast commanded us to love our enemies, to do good to them that hate us, and to pray for them that persecute us ; We earnestly beseech Thee, that by Thy gracious visitation all our enemies may be led to true repentance, and may have the same love, and be of one accord and of one mind and heart, with us and with Thy whole Christian Church ; through Christ our Lord. Amen. Let us pray for the fruits of the earth, that God would send down His blessing upon them, and graciously dispose our hearts to enjoy them in submission to His holy will. O Lord, Father Almighty, Who by Thy Word hast created and dost bless and uphold all things; We pray Thee so to reveal unto us Thy Word our Lord Jesus GENERAL PRAYERS, 107 Christ, that He dwelling in our hearts, we may by Thy grace be made meet to receive Thy blessing on all the fruits of the earth, and whatsoever pertains to our bodily need; through Christ our Lord. Amen, Finally, let us pray for all those things for which our Lord would have us ask, saying : Our Father, Who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy Name ; Thy kingdom come ; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven ; Give us this day our daily bread ; And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us ; And lead us not into temptation ; But deliver us from evil ; For Thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. VI. ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, who art worthy to be had in reverence by all the children of men, we give Thee most humble and hearty thanks for the innumer- able blessings, both temporal and spiritual, which, without any merit or worthiness on our part, Thou hast bestowed upon us. We praise Thee, especially, that Thou hast preserved unto us, in their purity, Thy saving Word, and the sacred ordi- nances of Thy house. And we beseech Thee, O Lord, to grant and preserve unto Thy holy Church, throughout the world, purity of doctrine, and faithful pastors who shall preach Thy Word with power ; and help all who hear, rightly to understand, and truly to believe the same. Be Thou the Protector and Defender of Thy people in all time of tribu- lation and danger; and may we, in communion with Thy Church, and in brotherly unity with all our fellow- Christians, fight the good fight of faith, and in the end re- ceive the salvation of our souls. Bestow Thy grace upon all the nations of the earth. Especially do we entreat Thee to bless our land, and all its inhabitants, and all who are in authority. Cause Thy glory to dwell among us, and let mercy and truth, righteousness and peace, everywhere prevail. To this end, we commend to Thy care all our schools, and pray Thee to make them nurseries of useful knowledge and of Christian virtues, that they may bring forth the wholesome fruits of life. Graciously defend us from all calamities by fire and water, 108 GENERAL PRAYERS. from war and pestilence, from scarcity and famine. Protect and prosper every one in his appropriate calling, and cause all useful arts to flourish among us. Be Thou the God and Father of the widow and the fatherless children, the Helper of the sick and needy, and the Comforter of the forsaken and distressed. ^f Here special Supplications 1 Intercessions ) and Prayers may be made. And as we are strangers and pilgrims on earth, help us by true faith and a godly life to prepare for the world to come ; doing the work which Thou hast given us to do while it is day ; before the night cometh when no man can work. And when our last hour shall come, support us by Thy power, and receive us into Thine everlasting kingdom ; through Jesus Christ Thy Son our Lord, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, for ever and ever. Amen* VII. ALMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, we, Thine un- worthy servants, do give Thee most humble and hearty thanks for all Thy goodness and loving-kindness to us, and to all men. We bless Thee for our creation, preser- vation, and all the blessings of this life ; but above all, for Thine inestimable love in the redemption of the world by our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. And, we beseech Thee, give us that due sense of all Thy mercies, that our hearts may be unfeignedly thankful, and that we may show forth Thy praise, not only with our lips, but in our lives : that walking before Thee in holiness and righteousness all our days, we may enjoy the testimony of a good conscience and the hope of Thy favor, be sustained and comforted under the troubles of this life, and finally be received into Thine everlasting kingdom, through Thine infinite mercy in Jesus Christ our Lord. We offer unto Thee our common supplications for the good estate of Thy Church throughout the world; that it may be so guided and governed by Thy good Spirit, that all who profess themselves Christians may be led into the way of truth, and hold the faith in unity of spirit, in the bond of peace, and in righteousness of life. Send down upon all ministers of the gospel, and upon all congregations committed to their charge, the healthful spirit of Thy grace, and that GENERAL PRAYERS. 109 they may truly please Thee, pour upon them the continual dew of Thy blessing. Most heartily we beseech Thee, with Thy favor to be- hold the President [and Congress] of the United States, and all others in authority ; and so replenish them with Thy grace, that they may always incline to Thy will, and walk in Thy way. Prosper all good counsels and all just works, that peace and happiness, truth and righteousness, religion and piety, may be established among us throughout all gen- erations. We humbly entreat Thee also for all sorts and conditions of men ; that Thou wouldest be pleased to make Thy ways known unto them, Thy saving health unto all nations. May it please Thee to preserve all that travel by land or water ; to succor all that are in peril or need ; and to satisfy the wants of all Thy creatures. We also commend to Thy fatherly goodness all those who are in any way afflicted or distressed, in mind, body, or es- tate ; that it may please Thee to comfort and relieve them according to their several necessities, giving them patience under their sufferings, and a happy issue out of all their af- flictions. ^[ Here special Supplications , Liter cessions, and Prayers may be made. Hear us, most merciful God, in these our humble requests, which we offer up unto Thee in the Name of Jesus Christ Thy Son, our Lord, to Whom, with Thee and the Holy Ghost, be all honor and glory, world without end. Amen. A SELECTION OF PSALMS. PSALMS. Psalm i. Beatus vir. BLESSED is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly : nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scorn- ful But his delight is in the law of the Lord : and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit hi his season. His leaf also shall not wither : and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so : but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment: nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish. Psalm ii. Quare fremuerunt gentes. WHY do the heathen rage: and the people imagine a vain thing'? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together: against the Lord, and against his Anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder: and cast away their cords from us. He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh : the Lord shall have them in derision. Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath: and vex them in his sore displeasure. Yet have I set my king: upon my holy hill of Zion. (113) 114 PSALMS, I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I be- gotten thee. Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance: and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron : thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel. Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be in- structed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear: and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little: blessed are all they that put their trust in him. Psalm vi. Domine ne in furore. OLORX), rebuke me not in thine anger: neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure. Have mercy upon me, O Lord ; for I am weak : O Lord, heal me ; for my bones are vexed. My soul is also sore vexed : but thou, O Lord, how long? Return, O Lord, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies' sake. For in death there is no remembrance of thee : in the grave who shall give thee thanks 1 ? I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim : I water my couch with my tears. Mine eye is consumed because of grief: it waxeth old because of all mine enemies. Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity: for the Lord hath heard the voice of my weeping. The Lord hath heard my supplication: the Lord will receive my prayer. PSALMS. 115 Let all mine enemies be ashamed and sore vexed : let them return and be ashamed suddenly. Psalm viii. Domine, Dominus noster. OLORD, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth: Who hast set thy glory above the heavens. Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies : that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger. When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers : the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man, that thou art mindful of him : and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels: and hast crowned him with glory and honor. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands: thou hast put all things under his feet; All sheep and oxen : yea, and the beasts of the field; The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea: and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas. O Lord our Lord : how excellent is thy name in all the earth ! Psalm xvi. Conserva me, Domine. PRESERVE me, O God: for in thee do I put my trust. O my soul, thou hast said unto the Lord, Thou art my Lord : my goodness extendeth not to thee ; But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent: in whom is all my delight. 116 PSALMS. Their sorrows shall be multipled that hasten after another god. Their drink offerings of blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips. The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup : thou maintainest my lot. The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places : yea, I have a goodly heritage. I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel : my reins also instruct me in the night- seasons. I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory re- joiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell: nei- ther wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see cor- ruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy ; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Psalm xviii. Diligam te, Domine. I WILL love thee : O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer: my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my sal- vation, and my high tower. I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. The sorrows of death compassed me: and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid. The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me. In my distress I called upon the Lord and cried unto my God. PSALMS. 117 He heard my voice out of his temple : and my cry came before him, even into his ears. Then the earth shook and trembled : the foun- dations also of the hills moved and were shaken, because he was wroth. There went up a smoke out of his nostrils, and fire out of his mouth devoured: coals were kin- dled by it. He bowed the heavens also, and came down: and darkness was under his feet. And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly: yea, he did fly upon the wings of the wind. He made darkness his secret place: his pavil- ion round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies. At the brightness that was before him his thick clouds passed: hailstones and coals of fire. The Lord also thundered in the heavens, and the Highest gave his voice: hailstones and coals of fire. Yea, he sent out his arrows, and scattered them : and he shot out lightnings, and discomfited them. Then the channels of waters were seen, and the foundations of the world were discovered: at thy rebuke, O Lord, at the blast of the breath of thy nostrils. He sent from above, he took me: he drew me out of many waters. He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were too strong for me. They prevented me in the day of my calamity : but the Lord was my stay. He brought me forth also into a large place: he delivered me, because he delighted in me. The Lord rewarded me according to my right- 118 PSALMS. eousness : according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me. For I have kept the ways of the Lord: and have not wickedly departed from my God. For all his judgments were before me: and I did not put away his statutes from me. I was also upright before him : and I kept my- self from mine iniquity. Therefore hath the Lord recompensed me ac- cording to my righteousness: according to the cleanness of my hands in his eyesight. With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself mer- ciful: with an upright man thou wilt shew thy- self upright ; With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure, and with the froward thou wilt shew thyself fro- ward. For thou wilt save the afflicted people: but wilt bring down high looks. For thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness. For by thee I have run through a troop : and by my God have I leaped over a wall. As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried; he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. For who is God save the Lord : or who is a rock save our God ? It is God that girdeth me with strength : and maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet : and set- teth me upon my high places. He teacheth my hands to war: so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms. Thou hast also given me the shield of thy sal- vation : and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great. PSALMS. 119 Thou hast enlarged my steps under me: that my feet did not slip. I have pursued mine enemies and overtaken them : neither did I turn again till they were con- sumed. I have wounded them that they were not able to rise : they are fallen under my feet. For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me. Thou hast also given me the necks of mine enemies : that I might destrov them that hate me. Thev cried, but there was none to save them : even unto the Lord, but he answered them not. Then did I beat them small as the dust before the wind: I did cast them out as the dirt in the streets. Thou hast delivered me from the strivings of the people : and thou hast made me the head of the heathen. A people whom I have not known : shall serve me. As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me: the strangers shall submit themselves unto me. The strangers shall fade away: and be afraid out of their close places. The Lord liveth ; and blessed be my Rock: and let the God of my salvation be exalted. It is God that avengeth me : and subdueth the people under me. He delivereth me from mine enemies; yea, thou liftest me up above those that rise up against me : thou hast delivered me from the violent man. Therefore will I give thanks unto thee, O Lord, among the heathen : and sing praises unto thy name. 120 PSALMS. Great deliverance giveth he to his king : and sheweth mercy to his anointed, to David, and to his seed forevermore. Psalm xix. Coeli enarrant. THE heavens declare the glory of God : and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech: and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language : where their voice is not heard. Their line is gone out through all the earth : and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun : which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it : and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof. The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul : the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for- ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold : sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned : and in keeping of them there is great reward. Who can understand his errors : cleanse thou me from secret faults. PSALMS. 121 Keep back thy servant also from presumptu- ous sins ; let them not have dominion over me : then shall I be upright and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth, and the medita- tion of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight : O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. Psalm xxi. Domine, in virtute tua. THE king shall joy in thy strength, O Lord : and in thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice ! Thou hast given him his heart's desire : and hast not withholden the request of his lips. For thou preventest him with the blessings of goodness : thou settest a crown of pure gold on his head. He asked life of thee, and thou gavest it him : even length of days for ever and ever. His glory is great in thy salvation : honor and majesty hast thou laid upon him. For thou hast made him most blessed forever; thou hast made him exceeding glad with thy countenance. For the king trusteth in the Lord : and through the mercy of the Most High he shall not be moved. Thine hand shall find out all thine enemies : thy right hand shall find out those that hate thee. Thou shalt make them as a fiery oven in the time of thine anger : the Lord shall swallow them up in his wrath, and the fire shall devour them. Their fruit shalt thou destroy from the earth : and their seed from among the children of men. 122 PSALMS. For they intended evil against thee : they im- agined a mischievous device, which they are not able to perform. Therefore shalt thou make them turn their back: when thou shalt make ready thine arrows upon thy strings against the face of them. Be thou exalted, Lord, in thine own strength: so will we sing and praise thy. power. Psalm xxii. Deus, Deus meus. MY God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me: why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring ? my God, I cry in the daytime, but thou hearest not: and in the night- season, and am not silent. But thou art holy : O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel Our fathers trusted in thee : they trusted, and thou didst deliver them. They cried unto thee, and were delivered : they trusted in thee, and were not confounded. But I am a worm, and no man : a reproach of men, and despised of the people. All they that see me laugh me to scorn : they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, He trusted on the Lord that he would deliver him : let him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him. But thou art he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother's breasts. 1 was cast upon thee from the womb : thou art my God from my mother's belly. Be not far from me ; for trouble is near : for there is none to help. PSALMS. 123 Many bulls have compassed me : strong bulls of Bashan have beset me round. They gaped upon me with their mouths : as a ravening and a roaring lion. I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: my heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of my bowels. My strength is dried up like a potsherd ; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws : and thou hast brought me into the dust of death. For dogs have compassed me : the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me ; they pierced my hands and my feet. I may tell all my bones : they look and stare upon me. They part my garments among them: and cast lots upon my vesture. But be not thou far from me, O Lord : O my strength, haste thee to help me. Deliver my soul from the sword: my darling from the power of the dog. Save me from the lion's mouth : for thou hast heard me from the horns of the unicorns. • I will declare thy name unto my brethren : in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee. Ye that fear the Lord, praise him ; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him : and fear him, all ye the seed of Israel. For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted: neither hath he hid his face from him ; but when he cried unto him, he heard. My praise shall be of thee in the great congre- gation : I will pay my vows before them that fear him. The meek shall eat and be satisfied : thev shall 124 PSALMS. praise the Lord that seek him ; your heart shall live for ever. All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the Lord: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee. For the kingdom is the Lord's : and he is the governor among the nations. All they that be fat upon the earth: shall eat and worship. All they that go down to the dust shall bow before him : and none can keep alive his own soul. A seed shall serve him : it shall be accounted to the Lord for a generation. They shall come, and shall declare his right- eousness unto a people that shall be born: that he hath done this. Psalm xxiii. Dominus regit me, THE Lord is my shepherd: I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pas- tures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths, of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me ; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the pres- ence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil ; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Psalm xxiy. Domini est terra. THE earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof: the world, and they that dwell therein. PSALMS. 125 For he hath founded it upon the seas : and es- tablished it upon the floods. Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord : or who shall stand in his holy place I He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart: who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the Lord : and righteousness from the God of his salvation. This is the generation of them that seek him: that seek thy face, O Jacob. Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lifted up, ye everlasting doors: and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory : The Lord strong and mightv, the Lord mighty in battle. - Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors: and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory: The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory. Psalm xxy. Ad te, Domine, levavi. UNTO thee, O Lord: do I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in thee : let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me. Yea, ]et none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause. Shew me thy ways, O Lord: teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me : for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. Remember, O Lord, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses : for they have been ever of old. 126 PSALMS. Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions : according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness 5 sake, O Lord. Good and upright is the Lord : therefore will he teach sinners in the way. The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth : unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. For thy name's sake, O Lord, pardon mine iniquity: for it is great. What man is he that feareth the Lord : him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose. His soul shall dwell at ease,: and his seed shall inherit the earth. The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him: and he will shew them his covenant. Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord : for he shall pluck my feet out of the net. Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me : for I am desolate and afflicted. The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring thou me out of my distresses. Look upon mine affliction and my pain : and forgive all my sins. Consider mine enemies, for they are many: and they hate me with cruel hatred. O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee. Let integrity and uprightness preserve me : for I wait on thee. Redeem Israel, O God : out of all his troubles. Psalm xxvii. Dominus illuminatio. THE Lord is my light and my salvation ; whom shall I fear: the Lord is the strength of my life ; of whom shall I be afraid \ PSALMS. 127 When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh: they stumbled and fell. Though a host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident. One thins have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after: that 1 may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me ; he shall set me up upon a rock. And now shall mine head be lifted up: above mine enemies round about me. Therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacri- fices of joy: I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord. Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me. When thou saidst, Seek ye my face : my heart said unto thee, Thy face, Lord, will I seek. Hide not thy face far from me: put not thy servant away in anger. Thou hast been my help: leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation. When my father and my mother forsake me: then the Lord will take me up. Teach me thy way, O Lord : and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies. Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies : for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty. I had fainted: unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. 128 PSALMS Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart ; wait, I say, on the Lord. Psalm xxviii. A d te, Domine. UNTO thee will I cry. O Lord my rock; be not silent to me: lest, if thou be silent to me, I become like them that go down into the pit. Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee: when I lift up my hands. toward thy holy oracle. Draw me not away with the wicked, and with the workers of iniquity: which speak peace to their neighbours, but mischief is in their hearts. Give them according to their deeds: and ac- cording to the wickedness of their endeavors. Give them after the work of their hands: render to them their desert. Because they regard not the works of the Lord, nor the operation of his hands: he shall destroy them, and not build them up. Blessed be the Lord : because he hath heard the voice of my supplications. The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. The Lord is their strength : and he is the sav- ing strength of his anointed. Save thy people, and bless thine inheritance: feed them also, and lift them up for ever. Psalm xxx. Exaltabo te 1 Domine. I WILL extol thee, O Lord; for thou hast lifted me up: and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me. O Lord my God, I cried unto thee: and thou hast healed me. PSALMS. 129 Lord, thou hast brought up my soul from the grave : thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit. Sing unto the Lord, O ye saints of his: and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness. For his anger endureth but a moment ; in his favor is life : weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. And in my prosperity I said : I shall never be moved. Lord, by thy favor thou hast made my moun- tain to stand strong : thou didst hide thy face, and I was troubled. 1 cried to thee, O Lord : and unto the Lord I made supplication. What profit is there in my blood, when I go down to the pit : Shall the dust praise thee ? shall it declare thy truth? Hear, O Lord, and have mercy upon me : Lord, be thou my helper. Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness. To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent: O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever. Psalm xxxii. Bead, quorum. BLESSED is he whose transgression is for- given: whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord im- puteth not iniquity: and in whose spirit there is no guile. When I kept silence: my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long. For day and. night thy hand was heavy upon 1 30 PSALMS. me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. I acknowledged my sin unto thee : and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord : and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found : surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him. Thou art my hiding place ; thou shalt preserve me from trouble: thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go : I will guide thee with mine eye. Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee. Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart. Psalm xxxiii. Exultate, justi. T3EJ0ICE in the Lord, O ye righteous: for W praise is comely for the upright. Praise the Lord with harp : sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings. Sing unto him a new song: play skilfully with a loud noise. For the word of the Lord is right: and all his works are done in truth. He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. PSALMS. 131 By the word of the Lord were the heavens made : and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. He gathereth the waters of the sea together as a heap: he layeth up the depth in store-houses. Let all the earth fear the Lord : let all the in- habitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spake, and it was done : he commanded, and it stood fast. The Lord bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect. The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever : the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord : and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance. The Lord looketh from heaven: he beholdeth all the sons of men. From the place of his habitation he looketh: upon all the inhabitants of the earth. He fashioneth their hearts alike: he consider- ed all their works. There is no king saved by the multitude of a host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength. A horse is a vain thing for safety : neither shall he deliver any by his great strength. Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him : upon them that hope in his mercy. To deliver their soul from death: and to keep them alive in famine. Our soul waited for the Lord : he is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in him: because we have trusted in his holy name. 132 PSALMS. Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us : according as we hope in thee. Psalm xxxiv. Benedicam Dominum. I WILL bless the Lord at all times : his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord : the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. magnify the Lord with me : and let us exalt his name together. 1 sought the Lord, and he heard me: and de- livered me from all my fears. They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed. This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him : and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him : and delivereth them. O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. O fear the Lord, ye his saints : for there is no want to them that fear him. The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing. Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the Lord. What man is he that desireth life : and loveth many days, that he may see good \ Keep thy tongue from evil : and thy lips from speaking guile. Depart from evil, and do good: seek peace, and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous: and his ears are open unto their cry. The face of the Lord is against them that do evil: to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. PSALMS. 133 The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth : and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart: and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all. He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken. Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate. The Lord redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be des- olate. Psalm xxxvi. Dixit injustus. THE transgression of the wicked saith within my heart : that there is no fear of God before his eyes. For he flattereth himself in his own eyes : until his iniquity be found to be hateful. The w^ords of his mouth are iniquity and de- ceit : he hath left off to be wise, and to do good. He deviseth mischief upon his bed; he setteth himself in a way that is not good* he abhorreth not evil. Thy mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens: and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds. Thy righteousness is like the great mountains ; thy judgments are a great deep: O Lord, thou preservest man and beast. How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God : therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fat- ness of thy house: and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light. 134 PSALMS. continue thy lovingkindness unto them that know thee : and thy righteousness to the upright in heart. Let not the foot of pride come against me : and let not the hand of the wicked remove me. There are the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast down, and shall not be able to rise. Psalm xl. Expectans expectavi. I WAITED patiently for the Lord : and he in- clined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up also out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay: and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God : many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord. Blessed is the man that maketh the Lord his trust: and respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies. Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee. If I would declare and speak of them: they are more than can be numbered. Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required. Then said I, Lo, I come : in the volume of the book it is written of me, 1 delight to do thy will, O my God : yea, thy law is within my heart. I have preached righteousuess in the great congregation : lo, I have not refrained my lips, O Lord, thou knowest. PSALMS. 135 I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart : I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation. I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth: from the great congregation. Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O.Lord: let thy loving-kindness and thy truth continually preserve me. For innumerable evils have compassed me about; mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that lam not able .to look up : they are more than the hairs of mine head : therefore mv heart faileth me. Be pleased, O Lord, to deliver me : O Lord, make haste to help me. Let them be ashamed and confounded together that seek after my soul to destroy it : let them be driven backward and put to shame that wish me evil. Let them be desolate for a reward of their shame: that say unto me, Aha, aha. Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say con- tinually, The Lord be magnified. But I am poor and needy : yet the Lord think- eth upon me. Thou art my help and my deliverer : make no tarrying, O my God. Psalm xliii. Judica me. Deus. JUDGE me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man. For thou art the God of my strength, why dost thou cast me off?: why go I mourning be- cause of the oppression of the enemy'? 136 PSALMS. O send out thy light and thy truth, let them lead me : let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles. Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God. Why art thou cast down, O my soul] and why art thou disquieted within mel hope in God : for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God. Psalm xlv. Eructavit cor meum. MY heart is inditing a good matter : I speak of the things which I have made touching the King. My tongue is the pen : of a ready writer. Thou art fairer than the children of men: grace is poured into thy lips; therefore God hath blessed thee for ever. Gird thy sword upon thy thigh, O most Mighty: with thy glory and thy majesty. And in thy majesty ride prosperously, because of truth and meekness and righteousness : and thy right hand shall teach thee terrible things. Thine arrows are sharp in the heart of the King's enemies : whereby the people fall under thee. Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre. Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wicked- ness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia: out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad. Kings' daughters were among thy honourable PSALMS. 137 women: upon thy right hand did stand the queen in gold of Ophir. Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and in- cline thine ear : forget also thine own people, and thy father's house. So shall the King greatly desire thy beauty : for he is thy Lord, and worship thou him. And the daughter of Tyre shall be there with a gift: even the rich among the people shall en- treat thy favor. The King's daughter is all glorious within: her clothing is of wrought gold. She shall be brought unto the Kino- in raiment of needlework : the virgins her companions that follow her shall be brought unto thee. AVith gladness and rejoicing shall they be brought: they shall enter into the King's palace. Instead of thy fathers shall be thy children : whom thou mayest make princes in all the earth. I will make thy name to be remembered in all generations: therefore shall the people praise thee for ever and ever. Psalm xlvi. Deus noster refugium. GOD is our refuge and strength : a very pres- ent help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed: and though the mountains be car- ried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled: though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God: the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early. 138 PSALMS. The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted. The Lord of hosts is with us: the God of Jacob is our refuge. Come, behold the works of the Lord : what desolations he hath made in the earth. He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth: he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire. Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord of hosts is with us: the God of Jacob is our refuge. Psalm xlvii. Omnes gentes, plaudite. OCLAP your hands, all ye people: shout unto God with the voice of triumph. For the Lord most high is terrible: he is a great King over all the earth. He shall subdue the people under us: and the nations under our feet. He shall choose our inheritance for us: the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. God is gone up with a shout : the Lord with the sound of a trumpet. Sing praises to God, sing praises : sing praises unto our King, sing praises. For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding God reigneth over the heathen: God sitteth upon the throne of his holiness. The princes of the people are gathered to- gether, even the people of the God of Abraham : for the shields of the earth belong unto God; he is greatly exalted. PSALMS. 139 Psalm xlviii. Magnus Dominus, GREAT is the Lord, and greatly to be praised: in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness. Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion: on the sides of the north, the city of the great King. God is known in her palaces: for a refuge. For, lo, the kings were assembled: they passed by together. They saw it, and so they marvelled : they were troubled, and hasted away. Fear took hold upon them there, and pain: as of a woman in travail. Thou breakest the ships of Tarshish: with an east wind. As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the Lord of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. We have thought of thy lovingkindness, O God: in the midst of thy temple. According to thy name, O God, so is thy praise unto the ends of the earth: thy right hand is full of righteousness. Let mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad: because of thy judgments. Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof. Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her pal- aces: that ye may tell it to the generation fol- lowing. For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death. 140 PSALMS. Psalm lvi. Miserere met, Deus. BE merciful unto me, O God; for man would swallow me up: he fighting daily oppress- eth me. Mine enemies would daily swallow me up: for they be many that fight against me, O thou Most High. What time I am afraid: I will trust in thee. In God I will praise his word : in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me. Every day they wrest my words: all their thoughts are against me for evil. They gather themselves together, they hide themselves : they mark my steps, when they wait for my soul. Shall they escape by iniquity: in thine anger cast down the people, O God. Thou tellest my wanderings; put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book] When I cry unto thee, then shall mine ene- mies turn back : this I know ; for God is for me. In God will I praise his word: in the Lord will I praise his word. In God have I put my trust : I will not be afraid what man can do unto me. Thy vovts are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee. For thou hast delivered my soul from death, wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling : that I may walk before God in the light of the living? Psalm lxv. Te decet hymnus. PRAISE waiteth for thee, O God, in Zion : and unto thee shall the vow be performed. O thou that hearest prayer: unto thee shall all flesh come. PSALMS. 141 Iniquities prevail against me: as for our trans- gressions, thou shalt purge them away. Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts : we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, even of thy holy temple. By terrible things in righteousness wilt thou answer us, O God of our salvation: who art the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of them that are afar off upon the sea. Which by his strength setteth fast the mount- ains: being girded with power. Which stilleth the noise of the seas : the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the people. They also that dwell in the uttermost parts are afraid at thy tokens: thou makest the outgo- ings of the morning and evening to rejoice. Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it: thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God, which is full of water. Thou preparest them corn : when thou hast so provided for it. Thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly; thou settlest the furrows thereof: thou makest it soft with showers; thou blessest the springing thereof. Thou crownest the year with thy goodness: and thy paths drop fatness. They drop upon the pastures of the wilder- ness: and the little hills rejoice on every side. The pastures are clothed with flocks; the val- levs also are covered over with corn: they shout . * for joy, they also sing. Psalrn lxvi. Jubilate Deo. MAKE a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands: sing forth the honor of his name; make his praise glorious. 142 PSALMS. Say unto God, How terrible art thou in thy works: through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee. All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee: they shall sing to thy name. Come and see the works of God: he is terrible in his doing toward the children of men. He turned the sea into dry land : they went through the flood on foot; there did we rejoice in him. He ruleth by his power for ever; his eyes be- hold the nations: let not the rebellious exalt themselves. bless our God, ye people: and make the voice of his praise to be heard. Which holdeth our soul in ' life : and suffereth not our feet to be moved. For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried. Thou broughtest us into the net: thou laidst affliction upon our loins. Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads : we went through fire and through water; but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place. 1 will go into thy house with burnt offerings: I will pay thee my vows, which my lips have uttered, and my mouth hath spoken, when I was in trouble. I will offer unto thee burnt sacrifices of fat- lings, with the incense of rams : I will offer bul- locks with goats. Come and hear, all ye that fear God: and I will declare what he hath done for my soul. I cried unto him with my mouth : and he was extolled with my tongue. If I regard iniquity in my heart : the Lord will not hear me. PSALMS. 143 But verily God hath heard me: he hath at- tended to the voice of my prayer. Blessed be God which hath not turned away my prayer: nor his mercy from me. Psalm lxvii. Dcus misereatur. GOD be merciful unto us, and bless us: and cause his face to shine upon us. That thy way may be known upon earth: thy saving health among all nations. Let the people praise thee, O God: let all the people praise thee. O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and gov- ern the nations upon earth. Let the people praise thee, O God: let all the people praise thee. Then shall the earth yield her increase: and God, even our own God shall bless us. God shall bless us: and all the ends of the earth shall fear him. Psalm lxviii. Exurgat Deus. LET God arise, let his enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him. As smoke is driven away, so drive them away: as wax melteth before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God. But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice. Sing unto God, sing praises unto his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name J AH, and rejoice before him. A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows: is God in his holy habitation. 144 PSALMS. God setteth the solitary in families; he bring- eth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious dwell in a dry land. O God, when thou wentest forth before thy people: when thou didst march through the wil- derness, The earth shook, the heavens also dropped at the presence of God : even Sinai itself was moved at the presence of God, the God of Israel. Thou, O God, didst send a plentiful rain : whereby thou didst confirm thine inheritance, when it was weary. Thy congregation hath dwelt therein: thou, O God, hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor. The Lord gave the word: great was the com- pany of those that published it. Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil. Though ye have lain among the pots, yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove : covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold. When the Almighty scattered kings in it: it was white as snow in Salmon. The hill of God is as the hill of Bashan: a high hill as the hill of Bashan. Why leap ye, ye high hills'? this is the hill which God desireth to dwell in: yea, the Lord will dwell in it for ever. The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels: the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place. Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive, thou hast received gifts for men: yea, for the rebellious also, that the Lord God might dwell among them. PSALMS. 145 Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits: even the God of our salvation. He that is our God is the God of salvation: and unto God the Lord belong the issues from death. But God shall wound the head of his enemies: and the hairy scalp of su^h a one as goeth on still in his trespasses. The Lord said, I will bring again from Bashan : I will bring my people again from the depths of the sea. That thy foot may be dipped in the blood of thine enemies : and the tongue of thy dogs in the same. They have seen thy goings, O God: even the goings of my God, my King, in the sanctuary. The singers went before, the players on instru- ments followed after : among them were the dam- sels playing with timbrels. Bless ye God in the congregations: even the Lord, from the fountain of Israel. There is little Benjamin with their ruler, the princes of Judah and their council: the princes of Zebulun, and the princes of Naphtali. Thy God hath commanded thy strength: strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us. Because of thy temple at Jerusalem : shall kings bring presents unto thee. Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multi- tude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, till every one submit himself with pieces of silver: scatter thou the people that delight in war. Princes shall come out of Egypt: Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God. Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth: O sing praises unto the Lord; 146 PSALMS. To him that rideth upon the heavens of heavens, which were of old : lo, he doth send out his voice, and that a mighty voice. Ascribe ye strength unto God, his excellency is over Israel : and his strength is in the clouds. O God, thou art terrible out of thy holy places: the God of Israel is he that giveth strength and power unto his people. Blessed be God. Psalm lxxii. Deus, judicium. f^\ IVE the king thy judgments, O God: and \Jf thy righteousness unto the king's son. He shall judge thy people with righteousness: and thy poor with judgment. The mountains shall bring peace to the people: and the little hills, by righteousness. He shall judge the poor of the people, he shall save the children of the needy : and shall break in pieces the oppressor. They shall fear thee as long as the sun and moon endure: throughout all generations. He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers that water the earth. In his days shall the righteous flourish : and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth. He shall have dominion also from sea to sea: and from the river unto the ends of the earth. They that dwell in the wilderness shall bow before him : and his enemies shall lick the dust. The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents : the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. Yea, all kings shall fall down before him : all nations shall serve him. For he shall deliver the needy when hecrieth: the poor also, and him that hath no helper. PSALMS. 147 He shall spare the poor and needy : and shall save the souls of the needy. He shall redeem their soul from deceit and violence : and precious shall their blood be in his sight. And he shall live, and to him shall be given of the gold of Sheba: prayer also shall be made for him continually, and daily shall he be praised. There shall be a handful of corn in the earth upon the top of the mountains : the fruit thereof shall shake like Lebanon ; and they of the city shall flourish like grass of the earth. His name shall endure forever; his name shall be continued as long as the sun: and men shall be blessed in him; all nations shall call him blessed. Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel: who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and Amen. Psalm lxxvii. Voce me a ad Dominum. I CRIED unto God with my voice: even unto God with my voice, and he gave ear unto me. In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord : my sore ran in the night, and ceased not; my soul refused to be comforted. I remembered God, and was troubled: I com- plained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Thou holdest mine eyes waking: I am so troubled that I cannot speak. I have considered the davs of old : the vears of ancient times. I call to remembrance my sono' in the night: I commune with mine own heart, and my spirit made diligent search. 148 PSALMS. Will the Lord cast off for ever: and will lie be favourable no more'? Is his mercy clean gone forever: doth his promise fail forevermore'? Hath God forgotten to be gracious: hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies \ And I said, This is my infirmity: but I will remember the years of the right hand of the Most High. I will remember the works of the Lord: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work : and talk c f thy doings. Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God] Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people. Thou hast with thine arm redeemed thy people : the sons of Jacob and Joseph. The waters saw thee, O God, the waters saw thee ; they were afraid : the depths also were troubled. The clouds poured out water; the skies sent out a sound : thine arrows also went abroad. The voice of thy thunder was in the heaven: the lightnings lightened the world; the earth trembled and shook. Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters: and thy footsteps are not known. Thou leddest thy people like a flock : by the hand of Moses and Aaron. Psalm lxxxv. Benedixisti, Domine. LORD, thou hast been favorable unto thy land : thou hast brought back the captivitv of Jacob. PSALMS. 149 Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people : thou hast covered all their sin. Thou hast taken away all thy wrath: thou hast turned thyself from the fierceness of thine anger. Turn us, O God of our salvation : and cause thine anger toward us to cease. Wilt thou be angry with us forever: wilt thou draw out thine anger to all generations % Wilt thou not revive us again : that thy people may rejoice in thee ? Shew us thy mercy, O Lord : and grant us thy salvation. I will hear what God the Lord will speak : for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints ; but let them not turn again to folly. Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him: that glory may dwell in our land. Mercy and truth are met together: righteous- ness and peace have kissed each other. Truth shall spring out of the earth: and right- eousness shall look down from heaven. Yea, the Lord shall give that which is good: and our land shall yield her increase. Righteousness shall go before him : and shall set us in the way of his steps. Psalm lxxxvi. Inclina, Domine. BOW down thine ear, O Lord, hear me : for I am poor and needy. Preserve my soul; for I am holy: O thou my God, save Thy servant that trusteth in thee. Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I cry unto thee daily. Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive: 150 PSALMS. and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee. Give ear, O Lord, unto my prayer: and attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my trouble will I call upon thee : for thou wilt answer me. Among the gods there is none like unto thee, O Lord: neither are there any works like unto thy works. All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O Lord: and shall glorify thy name. For thou art great, and doest wondrous things : thou art God alone. Teach me thy way, O Lord ; I will walk in thy truth : unite my heart to fear thy name. I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart : and I will glorify thy name for evermore. For great is thy mercy toward me : and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell. O God, the proud are risen against me : and the assemblies of violent men have sought after my soul, and have not set thee before them. But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious: longsuffering and plenteous in mercy and truth. O turn unto me, and have mercy upon me: give thy strength unto thy servant, and save the son of thine handmaid. Shew me a token for good ; that they which hate me may see it, and be ashamed: because Jiou, Lord, hast holpen me, and comforted me. Psalm lxxxvii. Fundamenta qjus. IS foundation : is in the holy mountains. The Lord loveth the gates of Zion : more than all the dwellings of Jacob. H PSALMS. 151 Glorious things are spoken of thee : O city of God. Selah. I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon : to them that know me. Behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia: this man was born there. And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and' the Highest himself shall establish her. The Lord shall count, when he writeth up the people: that this man was born there. As well the singers as the players on instru- ments shall be there : all my springs are in thee. I Psalm lxxxix. Misericordias Domini. WILL sing of the mercies of the Lord for ever : with my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations. For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever: thy faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens. I have made a covenant with my chosen: I have sworn unto David my servant. Thy seed will I establish for ever: and build up thy throne to all generations. And the heavens shall praise thy wonders, O Lord: thy faithfulness also in the congregation of the saints. For who in the heaven can be compared unto the Lord : who among the sons of the mighty can be likened unto the Lord % God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints: and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him. O Lord God of hosts, who is a strong Lord like unto thee : or to thy faithfulness round about thee I 152 PSALMS. Thou rulest the raging of the sea : when the waves thereof arise, thou stillest them. Thou hast broken Rahab in pieces, as one that is slain : thou hast scattered thine enemies with thy strong arm. The heavens are thine, the earth also is thine : as for the world and the fulness thereof, thou hast founded them. The north and the south, thou hast created them: Tabor and Hermon shall rejoice in thy name. Thou hast a mighty arm : strong is thy hand, and high is thy right hand. Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne : mercy and truth shall go before thy face. Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy countenance. In thy name shall they rejoice all the day: and in thy righteousness shall they be exalted. For thou art the glory of their strength: and in thy favor our horn shall be exalted. For the Lord is our defence : and the Holy One of Israel is our King. Then thou spakest in vision to thy Holy One, and saidst : I have laid help upon one that is mighty; I have exalted one chosen out of the people. I have found David my servant : with my holy oil have I anointed him. With whom my hand shall be established: mine arm also shall strengthen him. The enemy shall not exact upon him : nor the son of wickedness afflict him. And I will beat down his foes before his face : and plague them that hate him. PSALMS. 153 But my faithfulness and my mercy shall be with him : and in my name shall his horn be ex- alted. I will set his hand also in the sea : and his right hand in the rivers. He shall cry unto me, Thou art my Father: my God, and the Rock of my salvation. Also I will make him my firstborn: higher than the kings of the earth. My mercy will I keep for him for evermore: and my covenant shall stand fast with him. His seed also will I make to endure for ever: and his throne as the days of heaven. If his children forsake my law : and walk not in my judgments ; If they break my statutes, and keep not my commandments: then will I visit their trans- gression with the rod; and their iniquity with stripes. Nevertheless my loviugkindness will I not ut- terly take from him : nor suffer my faithfulness to fail. My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips : once have I sworn by my holiness : that I will not lie unto David. His seed shall endure for ever : and his throne as the sun before me. It shall be established for ever as the moon : and as a faithful witness in heaven. But thou hast cast off and abhorred : thou hast been wroth with thine anointed. Thou hast made void the covenant of thy ser- vant : thou hast profaned his crown by casting it to the ground. Thou hast broken down all his hedges : thou hast brought his strong holds to ruin. 154 PSALMS. All that pass by the way spoil him : he is a re- proach to his neighbors. Thou hast set up the right hand of his adver- saries: thou hast made all his enemies to rejoice. Thou hast also turned the edge of his sword : and hast not made him to stand in the battle. Thou hast made his glory to cease : and cast his throne down to the ground. The days of his youth hast thou shortened: thou hast covered him with shame. How long, Lord ] wilt thou hide thyself for ever : shall thy wrath burn like fire \ Remember how short my time is : wherefore hast thou made all men in vain? What man is he that liveth, and shall not see death : shall he deliver his soul from the hand of the grave ? Lord, where are thy former lovingkindnesses : which thou swarest unto David in thy truth ] Remember, Lord, the reproach of thy servants : how I do bear in my bosom the reproach of all the mighty people; Wherewith thine enemies have reproached, O Lord ; wherewith they have reproached the foot- steps of thine anointed: blessed be the Lord for evermore. Amen, and Amen. Psalm xc. Domine, refugium. ORD, thou hast been our dwellingplace : in L all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world: even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God. Thou turnest man to destruction : and sayest, Return, ye children of men. For a thousand years in thy sight are but as PSALMS. 155 yesterday when it is past : and as a watch in the night. Thou earnest them away as with a flood ; they are as a sleep : in the morning they are like grass which groweth up. In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up : in the evening it is cut down, and withereth. For w T e are consumed by thine anger: and by thy wrath are we troubled. Thou hast set our iniquities before thee: our secret sins in the light of thy countenance. For all our days are passed away in thy wrath : we spend our years as a tale that is told. The days of our years are threescore years and ten ; and if by reason of strength they be four- score years: yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. Who knoweth the power of thine anger : even according to thy fear, so is thy wrath. So teach us to number our days: that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. Return, O Lord, how long : and let it repent thee concerning thy servants. O satisfy us early with thy mercy : that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. Make us glad according to the days wherein thou hast afflicted us : and the years wherein we have seen evil. Let thy work appear unto thy servants : and thy glory unto their children. And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands estab- lish thou it. 156 PSALMS. Psalm xci. Qui habitat. HE that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High: shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress : my God ; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler : and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and un- der his wings shalt thou trust : his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night : nor for the arrow that flieth by day ; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in dark- ness: nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand : but it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold : and see the reward of the wicked. Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge : even the Most High, thy habitation ; There shall no evil befall thee: neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee ■ to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands : lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder : the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. Because he hath set his love upon me, there- fore will I deliver him : I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him PSALMS. 157 I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him : and show him my salvation. Psalm xcii. Bonum est confiteri. IT is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord : and to sing praises unto thy name, O Most High; To show forth thy lovingkindness in the morn- ing : and thy faithfulness every night. Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery : upon the harp with a solemn sound. For thou, Lord, hast made me glad through thy work : I will triumph in the works of thy hands. O Lord, how great are thy works : and thy thoughts are very deep. A brutish man knoweth not: neither doth a fool understand this. When the wicked spring as the grass, and when all the workers of iniquity do flourish : it is that they shall be destroyed for ever; but thou, Lord, art most high for evermore. For, lo, thine enemies, O Lord, for, lo, thine enemies shall perish : all the workers of iniquity shall be scattered. But my horn shalt thou exalt like the horn of a unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil. Mine eye also shall see my desire on mine en- emies : and mine ears shall hear my desire of the wicked that rise up against me. The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree : he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the Lord : shall flourish in the courts of our God. 158 PSALMS. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age: they shall be fat and flourishing; To show that the Lord is upright; he is my rock: and there is no unrighteousness in him. Psalm xciii. Dominus regnavit. THE Lord reigneth, he is clothed with majesty : the Lord is clothed with strength, wherewith he hath girded himself. The world also is established: that it cannot be moved. Thy throne is established of old : thou art from everlasting. The floods have lifted up, O Lord, the floods have lifted up their voice : the floods lift up their waves. The Lord on high is mightier than the noise of many waters : yea, than the mighty waves of the sea. Thy testimonies are very sure : holiness becom- eth thine house, O Lord, for ever. Psalm xcv. Venite, ezultemus. OCOME, let us sing unto the Lord : let us make a joyful noise to the Rock of our sal- vation. Let us come before his presence with thanks- giving: and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God : and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the deep places of the earth : the strength of the hills is his also. The sea is his, and he made it : and his hands formed the dry land. O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker. PSALMS. 159 For he is our God : and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To-day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your heart: as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness; When your fathers tempted me: proved me, and saw my w T ork. Forty years long was I grieved with this gen- eration, and said : It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways ; Unto whom I sware in my wrath : that they should not enter into my rest. Psalm xcvii. Dominus regnavit. THE Lord reigneth, let the earth rejoice ; let multitude of isles be glad thereof. Clouds and darkness are round about him : righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne. A fire goeth before him : and burneth up his enemies round about. His lightnings enlightened the world : the earth saw, and trembled. The hills melted like wax at the presence of the Lord: at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. The heavens declare his righteousness: and all the people see his glory. Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods. Zion heard, and was glad: and the daughters of Judah rejoiced because of thy judgments, O Lord. For thou, Lord, art high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods. Ye that love the Lord, hate evil: he preserv- 160 PSALMS. eth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked. Light is sown for the righteous: and gladness for the upright in heart. Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous: and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness. Psalm xcviii. Cantate Domino. OSING unto the Lord a new song: for he hath done marvellous things. His right hand, and his holy arm : hath gotten him the victory. The Lord hath made known his salvation: his righteousness hath he openly shewed in the sight of the heathen. He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise. Sing unto the Lord with the harp : with the harp, and the voice of a psalm. With trumpets and sound of cornet : make a joyful noise before the Lord, the King. Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof: the world, and they that dwell therein. Let the floods clap their hands, let the hills be joyful together before the Lord: for he Com- eth to judge the earth. With righteousness shall he judge the world: and the people with equity. Psalm c. Jubilate Deo. MAKE a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands: serve the Lord with gladness, come before his presence with singing. PSALMS. 161 Know ye that the Lord he is God : it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves ; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise : be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the Lord is good ; his mercy is everlast- ing : and his truth endureth to all generations. Psalm ciii. Benediq. anima mea. BLESS the Lord, O my soul : and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul : and forget not all his benefits ; Who forgiveth all thine iniquities : who heal- eth all thy diseases ; Who redeem eth thy life from destruction: who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies ; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things: so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's. The Lord executeth righteousness and judg- ment: for all that are oppressed. He made known his ways unto Moses : his acts unto the children of Israel. The Lord is merciful and gracious : slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide : neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins : nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth : so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from the west : so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Like as a father pitieth his children : so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. 162 PSALMS. For he knoweth our frame : he remernbereth that we are dust. As for man, his days are as grass : as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone : and the place thereof shall know it no more. But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him : and his righteousness unto children's children ; To such as keep his covenant : and to those that remember his commandments to do them. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens : and his kingdom ruleth over all. Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength : that do his commandments, hearken- ing unto the voice of his word. Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts: ye minis- ters of his, that do his pleasure. Bless the Lord, all his works in all places of his dominion : bless the Lord, O my soul. Psalm civ. BenediCj anima mea. BLESS the Lord, O my soul: O Lord my God, thou art very great ; thou art clothed with honour and majesty; Who coverest thyself with light as with a gar- ment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain ; Who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters : who maketh the clouds his chariot ; who walketh upon the wings of the wind ; Who maketh his angels spirits : his ministers a flaming fire ; Who laid the foundations of the earth : that it should not be removed for ever. Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a gar- ment: the waters stood above the mountains. PSALMS. 163 At thy rebuke they fled: at the voice of thy thunder they hasted away. They go up by the mountains ; they go down by the valleys: unto the place which thou hast founded for them. Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over : that they turn not again to cover the earth. He sendeth the springs into the valleys : which run among the hills. They give drink to every beast of the field : the wild asses quench their thirst. By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation : which sing among the branches. He watereth the hills from his chambers: the earth is satisfied with the fruit of thy works. He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle : and herb for the service of man; That he mav brino- forth food out of the earth, and wine that maketh olad the heart of man: and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengthened! man's heart. The trees of the Lord are full of sap : the cedars of Lebanon, which he hath planted ; Where the birds make their nests: as for the stork, the fir trees are her house. The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats: and the rocks for the conies. He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down. Thou makest darkness, and it is night: wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth. The young lions roar after their prey : and seek their meat from God. The sun ariseth, they gather themselves to- gether : and lay them down in their dens. 164 PSALMS. Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour: until the evening. Lord, how manifold are thy works: in wis- dom hast thou made them all ; the earth is full of thy riches. So is this great and wide sea: wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts. There go the ships ; there is that leviathan : whom thou hast made to play therein. These wait all upon thee : that thou mayest give them their meat in due season. That thou givest them they gather: thou openest thine hand, they are filled with good. Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled: thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to their dust. Thou sendest forth thy spirit, they are created : and thou renewest the face of the earth. The glory of the Lord shall endure for ever: the Lord shall rejoice in his works. He looketh on the earth, and it trembleth : he toucheth the hills, and they smoke. 1 will sing unto the Lord as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. My meditation of him shall be sweet : I will be glad in the Lord. Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more : Bless thou the Lord, O my soul. Praise ye the Lord. Psalm ex. Dixit Dominus. THE Lord said unto my Lord : Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength PSALMS. 165 out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies. Thy people shall be willing in the clay of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth. The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent: Thou art a priest for eyer after the order of Mel- chizedek. The Lord at thy ri^ht hand: shall strike through kings in the day of his wrath. He shall judge among the heathen, he shall fill the places with the dead bodies: he shall wound the heads oyer many countries. He shall drink of the brook in the way : there- fore shall he lift up the head. Psalm cxi. Conntehor tibi. PRAISE ye the Lord. I will praise the Lord with my whole heart : in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation. The works of the Lord are great: sought out of all them that haye pleasure therein. His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for eyer. He hath made his wonderful works to be re- membered: the Lord is gracious and full of compassion. He hath giyen meat unto them that fear him: he will eyer be mindful of his coyenant. He hath shewed his people the power of his works: that he may give them the heritage of the heathen. The works of his hands are verity and judg- ment : all his commandments are sure. They stand fast for eyer and eyer: and are done in truth and uprightness. He sent redemption unto his people: he hath 166 PSALMS. commanded his covenant for ever : holy and rev- erend is his name. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wis- dom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments; his praise endureth for ever. Psalm cxiii. Laudate, pueri. PRAISE ye the Lord. Praise, O ye servants of the Lord: praise the name of the Lord. Blessed be the name of the Lord : from this time forth and for evermore. From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same: the Lord's name is to be praised. The Lord is high above all nations : and his glory above the heavens. Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high: who humbleth himself to behold the things that are in heaven, and in the earth ! He raiseth up the poor out of the dust : and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill ; That he may set him with princes * even with the princes of his people. He maketh the barren woman to keep house: and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the Lord. Psalm cxv. Non nobis, Domine. NOT unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory: for thy mercy, and for thy truth's sake. Wherefore should the heathen say: Where is now their God'? But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased. PSALMS. 167 Their idols are silver and gold : the work of men's hands. They have mouths, but they speak not : eyes have they, but they see not ; They have ears, but they hear not : noses have they, but they smell not ; They have hands, but they handle not ; feet have they, but they walk not : neither speak they through their throat. They that make them are like unto them: so is every one that trusteth in them. O Israel, trust thou in the Lord: he is their help and their shield. O house of Aaron, trust in the Lord: he is their help and their shield. Ye that fear the Lord, trust in the Lord: he is their help and their shield. The Lord hath been mindful of us; he will bless us: he will bless the house of Israel; he will bless the house of Aaron. He will bless them that fear the Lord: both 4 small and great. The Lord shall increase you more and more: you and your children. Ye are blessed of the Lord: which made heaven and earth. The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord's: but the earth hath he given to the children of men. The dead praise not the Lord: neither any that go down into silence. But we will bless the Lord: from this time forth and for evermore. Praise the Lord. i Psalm cxyi. Dilexi. quoniam. LOVE the Lord : because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. 168 PSALMS. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me : therefore will I call upon him as long as I live. The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me : I found trouble and sorrow. Then called I upon the name of the Lord : O Lord, I beseech thee, deliver my soul. Gracious is the Lord, and righteous: yea, our God is merciful. The Lord preserveth the simple : 1 was brought low, and he helped me. Return unto thy rest, O my soul : for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee. For thou hast delivered my soul from death: mine eyes from tears, and my feet from falling. I will walk before the Lord : in the land of the living. I believed, therefore have I spoken; I was greatly afflicted: I said in my haste, All men are liars. • What shall I render unto the Lord : for all his benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation: and call upon the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows unto the Lord now: in the presence of all his people. Precious in the sight of the Lord : is the death of his saints. Lord, truly I am thy servant: I am thy servant, and the son of thine handmaid; thou hast loosed my bonds. 1 will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiv- ing: and will call upon the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows unto the Lord now, in the presence of all his people: in the courts of the Lord's house, in the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. Praise ye the Lord. PSALMS. 169 Psalm cxvii. Laudate Dominum. PRAISE the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord. Psalm cxviii. Confitemini Domino. OGIVE thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever. Let Israel now say: that his mercy endureth for ever. Let the house of Aaron now say: that his mercy endureth for ever. Let them now that fear the Lord say: that his mercy endureth for ever. I called upon the Lord in distress: the Lord answered me, and set me in a large place. The Lord is on my side ; I will not fear : what can man do unto me] The Lord taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me. It is better to trust in the Lord : than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the Lord : than to put confidence in princes. All nations compassed me about: but in the name of the Lord will I destroy them. They compassed me about; yea, they com- passed me about : but in the name of the Lord I will destroy them. They compassed me about like bees; they are quenched as the fire of thorns: for in the name of the Lord I will destroy them. Thou hast thrust sore at me that I might fall: but the Lord helped me. 170 PSALMS. The Lord is my strength and song : and is be- come my salvation. The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tabernacles of the righteous: the right hand of the Lord doeth valiantly. The right hand of the Lord is exalted : the right hand of the Lord doeth valiantly. I shall not die, but live : and declare the works of the Lord. The Lord hath chastened me sore : but he hath not given me over unto death. Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will go into them, and I will praise the Lord: This gate of the Lord : into which the right- eous shall enter. I will praise thee, for thou hast heard me: and art become my salvation. The stone which the builders refused: is be- come the head stone of the corner. This is the Lord's doing : it is marvellous in our eyes. This is the day which the Lord hath made : we will rejoice and be glad in it. Save now, I beseech thee, O Lord : O Lord, I beseech thee, send now prosperity. Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the Lord : we have blessed you out of the house of the Lord. God is the Lord, which hath shewed us light : bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar. Thou art my God, and I will praise thee : thou art my God, I will exalt thee. O give thanks unto the Lord ; for he is good : for his mercy endureth for ever. PSALMS. 171 Psalm cxix. Beati immaculati. BLESSED are the undefiled in the way: who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies : and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us : to keep thy pre- cepts diligently. that my ways were directed : to keep thy statutes ! Then shall I not be ashamed : when I have respect unto all thy commandments. 1 will praise thee with uprightness of heart : when I shall have learned thy righteous judg- ments. I will keep thy statutes : O forsake me not utterly. II. In quo corrigit? Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way: by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee : O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart : that I might not sin against thee. Blessed art thou, O Lord : teach me thy stat- utes. With my lips have I declared : all the judg- ments of thy mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies : as much as in all riches. I will meditate in thy precepts : and have re- spect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes : I will not forget thy word. 172 PSALMS. III. Retribue servo tuo. Deal bountifully with thy servant : that I may live, and keep thy word. Open thou mine eyes : that I may behold won- drous things out of thy law. I am a stranger in the earth : hide not thy commandments from me. My soul breaketh : for the longing: that it hath unto thy judgments at all times. Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed : which do err from thy commandments. Remove from me reproach and contempt : for I have kept thy testimonies. Princes also did sit and speak against me : but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes. Thy testimonies also are my delight : and my counsellors. IV. Adh&sit pavimento. My soul cleaveth unto the dust : quicken thou me according to thy word. I have declared my ways, and thou heardest me: teach me thy statutes. Make me to understand the way of thy pre- cepts : so shall I talk of thy wondrous works. My soul melteth for heaviness : strengthen thou me according unto thy word. Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously. I have chosen the way of truth: thy judg- ments have I laid before me. I have stuck unto thy testimonies : O Lord, put me not to shame. I will run the way of thy commandments: when thou shalt enlarge my heart. PSALMS. 173 V. Legem pone. Teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statutes : and I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law : yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me to go in the path of thy command- ments : for therein do I delight. Incline my heart unto thy testimonies : and not to covetousness. Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity: and quicken thou me in thy way. Stablish thy word unto thy servant : who is devoted to thy fear. Turn away my reproach which I fear : for thy judgments are good. Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness. VI. Et veniat super me. Let thy mercies come also unto me, O Lord : even thy salvation, according to thy word. So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me : for I trust in thy word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth : for I have hoped in thy judgments. So shall I keep thy law continually : for ever and ever. And I will walk at liberty : for I seek thy pre- cepts. I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings : and will not be ashamed. And I will delight myself in thy command- ments: which I have loved. My hands also will I lift up unto thy com- mandments, which I have loved : and I will med- itate in thy statutes. 174 PSALMS. VII. Memor esto verbi tui. Remember the word unto thy servant : upon which thou hast caused me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me. The proud have had me greatly in derision : yet have I not declined from thy law. I remembered thy judgments of old, O Lord : and have comforted myself. Horror hath taken hold upon me : because of the wicked that forsake thv law. Thy statutes have been my songs: in the house of my pilgrimage. I have remembered thy name, O Lord, in the night : and have kept thy law. This I had: because I kept thy precepts. VIII. Portio mea 1 Domine. Thou art my portion, O Lord : I have said that I would keep thy words. I entreated thy favour with my whole heart : be merciful unto me according to thy word. I thought on my ways : and turned my feet unto thy testimonies. I made haste: and delayed not to keep thy commandments. The bands of the wicked have robbed me : but I have not forgotten thy law. At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee : because of thy righteous judgments. I am a companion of all them that fear thee : and of them that keep thy precepts. The earth, O Lord, is full of thy mercy: teach me thy statutes. IX. Bonitatem fecisti. Thou hast dealt well with thy servant: O Lord, according unto thy word. PSALMS. 175 Teach me good judgment and knowledge : for I have believed thy commandments. Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word. Thou art good, and doest good : teach me thy statutes. The proud have forged a lie against me : but I will keep thy precepts with my whole heart. Their heart is as fat as grease : but I delight in thy law T . It is good for me that I have been afflicted : that I might leam thy statutes. The law of thy mouth is better unto me: than thousands of gold and silver. X. Afanus tuse fecerunt me. Thy hands have made me and fashioned me : give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments. They that fear thee will be glad when they see me : because I have hoped in thy word. I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right: and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me. Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort : according to thy word unto thy servant. Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live : for thv law is my delight. Let the proud be ashamed; for they dealt per- versely with me without a cause: but I will meditate in thy precepts. Let those that fear thee turn unto me : and those that have known thy testimonies. Let my heart be sound in thy statutes : that I be not ashamed. XI. Defecit anima mea. My soul fainteth for thy salvation : but I hope in thy word. 176 PSALMS. Mine eyes fail for thy word : saying, When wilt thou comfort me % For I am become like a bottle in the smoke : yet do I not forget thy statutes. How many are the days of thy servant: when wilt thou execute judgment on them that perse- cute me % The proud have digged pits for me : which are not after thy law. All thy commandments are faithful : they per- secute me wrongfully; help thou me. They had almost consumed me upon earth : but I forsook not thy precepts. Quicken me after thy lovingkindness : so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth. XII. In seternum, Domine. For ever, O Lord : thy word is settled in heaven. Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. They continue this day according to thine or- dinances : for all are thy servants. Unless thy law had been my delights : I should then have perished in mine affliction. I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me. I am thine, save me : for I have sought thy precepts. The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies. I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad. XIII. Quomodo dilexi. O how love I thy law : it is my meditation all the day. Thou through thy commandments hast made PSALMS. 177 me wiser than mine enemies : for they are ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teach- ers : for thy testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the ancients: because I keep thy precepts. I have refrained my feet from every evil way: that I might keep thy word. I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou hast taught me. How sweet are thy words unto my taste: yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth. Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. XIV. Lucerna pedibus meis. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet: and a light unto my path. I have sworn, and I will perform it: that I will keep thy righteous judgments. I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O Lord, according unto thy word. Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O Lord : and teach me thy judg- ments. My soul is continually in my hand : yet do I not forget thy law. The wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from thy precepts. Thy testimonies have I taken as a heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart. I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes always : even unto the end. XV. Iniquos odio habui. I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love. Thou art my hiding place and my shield : I hope in thy word. 178 PSALMS. Depart from me, ye evil doers: for I will keep the commandments of my God. Uphold me according unto thy word; that I may live : and let me not be ashamed of my hope. Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe : and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually. Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit is falsehood. Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth like dross: therefore I love thy testimonies. My flesh trembleth for fear of thee: and I am afraid of thy judgments. XVI. Feci judicium. I have done judgment and justice: leave me not to mine oppressors. Be surety for thy servant for good : let not the proud oppress me. Mine eyes fail for thy salvation: and for the word of thy righteousness. Deal with thy servant according unto thy mercy: and teach me thy statutes. I am thy servant; give me understanding: that I may know thy testimonies. It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law. Therefore I love thy commandments above gold: yea, above fine gold. Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concern- ing all things to be right: and I hate every false way. XVII. Mirabilia. Thy testimonies are wonderful : therefore doth my soul keep them. The entrance of thy words giveth light: it giveth understanding unto the simple. PSALMS. 179 I opened my mouth, and panted: for I longed for thy commandments. Look thou upon me, and be merciful unto me: as thou usest to do unto those that love thy name. Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me. Deliver me from the oppression of man: so will I keep thy precepts. Make thy face to shine upon thy servant: and teach me thy statutes. Rivers of waters run down mine eyes : because they keep not thy law. XVIII. Justus es ) Domine. Righteous art thou, O Lord : and upright are thy judgments. Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded : are righteous and very faithful. My zeal hath consumed me: because mine enemies have forgotten thv words. Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it. I am small and despised: yet do I not forget thy precepts. Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteous- ness: and thy law is the truth. Trouble and anguish have taken hold on me: yet thy commandments are my delights. The righteousness of thy testimonies is ever- lasting: give me understanding, and I shall live. XIX. Clamavi in toto corde meo. I cried with my whole heart: hear me, O Lord ; I will keep thy statutes. I cried unto thee: save me, and I shall keep thy testimonies. 180 PSALMS. I prevented the dawning of the morning, and cried: I hoped in thy word. Mine eyes prevent the night watches: that I might meditate in thy word. Hear my voice according unto thy loving- kindness: O Lord, quicken me according to thy judgment. They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law. Thou art near, O Lord: and all thy com- mandments are truth. Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old: that thou hast founded them for ever. XX. Vide humilitatem. Consider mine affliction, and deliver me : for I do not forget thy law. Plead my cause, and deliver me : quicken me according to thy word. Salvation is far from the wicked : for they seek not thy statutes. Great are thy tender mercies, O Lord : quicken me according to thy judgments. Many are my persecutors and mine enemies: yet do I not decline from thy testimonies. I beheld the transgressors, and was grieved: because they kept not thy word. Consider how I love thy precepts: quicken me, O Lord, according to thy lovingkindness. Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever. XXI. Principes persecuti sunt. Princes have persecuted me without a cause : but my heart standeth in awe of thy word. I rejoice at thy word: as one that findeth great spoil. PSALMS. 181 I hate and abhor lying: but thy law do I love. Seven times a day do I praise thee: because of thy righteous judgments. Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them. Lord, I have hoped for thy salvation: and done thy commandments. My soul hath kept thy testimonies: and I love them exceedingly. I have kept thy precepts and thy testimonies: for all my ways are before thee. XXII. Appropinquet deprecatio. Let my cry come near before thee, O Lord: give me understanding according to thy word. Let my supplication come before thee : deliver me according to thy word. My lips shall utter praise: when thou hast taught me thy statutes. My tongue shall speak of thy word : for all thy commandments are righteousness. Let thine hand help me: for I have chosen thy precepts. I have longed for thy salvation, O Lord : and thy law is my delight. Let my soul live, and it shall praise thee : and let thy judgments help me. I have gone astray like a lost sheep: seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy command- ments. Psalm cxxi. Levavi oculos. I WILL lift up mine eyes unto the hills: from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord : which made heaven and earth. 182 PSALMS. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel: shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day: nor the moon by night. The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil : he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in: from this time forth, and even for evermore. Psalm cxxii. Lsetatus mm. I WAS glad when they said unto me: Let us go into the house of the Lord. Our feet shall stand within thy gates : O Je- rusalem. Jerusalem is builded : as a city that is com- pact together. Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord : unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the Lord. For there are set thrones of judgment : the thrones of the house of David. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem : they shall prosper that love thee. Peace be within thy walls: and prosperity within thy palaces. For my brethren and companions' sakes: I will now say, Peace be within thee. Because of the house of the Lord our God : I will seek thy good. PSALMS. 183 Psalm exxiv. iVtsi quia Dominus. IF it had not been the Lord who was on our side: now may Israel say; If it had not been the Lord who was on our side : when men rose up against us ; Then they had swallowed us up quick : w T hen their wrath was kindled against us. Then the waters had overwhelmed us : the stream had gone over our soul. Then the proud waters : had gone over our soul. Blessed be the Lord : who hath not given us as a prey to their teeth. Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped. Our help is in the name of the Lord: w T ho made heaven and earth. Psalm cxxv. Qui confidant. THEY that trust in the Lord shall be as mount Zion : which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever. As the mountains are round about Jerusalem : so the Lord is round about his people from henceforth even for ever. For the rod of the wicked shall not rest upon the lot of the righteous : lest the righteous put forth their hands unto iniquity. Do good, O Lord, unto those that be good : and to them that are upright in their hearts. As for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways: the Lord shall lead them forth with the workers of iniquity; but peace shall be upon Israel. 184 PSALMS. Psalm cxxvi. In convertendo. WHEN the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion: we were like them that dream. Then was our mouth filled with laughter : and our tongue with singing. Then said they among the heathen : The Lord hath done great things for them. The Lord hath done great things for us: whereof we are glad. Turn again our captivity, O Lord: as the streams in the south. They that sow in tears: shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed: shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. Psalm cxxx. De profundis. OUT of the depths : have I cried unto thee, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice : let thine ears be atten- tive to the voice of my supplications. If thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities: O Lord, who shall stand % But there is forgiveness with thee: that thou mayest be feared. I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait: and in his word do I hope. My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning. Let Israel hope in the Lord, for with the Lord there is mercy : and with him is plenteous redemption. And he shall redeem Israel: from all his in- iquities. PSALMS. 185 Psalm cxxxii. Memento, Domine. LORD, remember David: and all his afflic- tions; How he sware unto the Lord: and vowed unto the mighty God of Jacob; Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house : nor go up into my bed ; I will not give sleep to mine eyes : or slumber to mine eyelids, Until I find out a place for the Lord : a habi- tation for the mighty God of Jacob. Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah: we found it in the fields of the wood. AVe will go into his tabernacles: we will wor- ship at his footstool. Arise, O Lord, into thy rest: thou, and the ark of thy strength. Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness: and let thy saints shout for joy. For thy servant David's sake: turn not away the face of thine anointed. The Lord hath sworn in truth unto David: he will not turn from it ; Of the fruit of thy body : will I set upon thy throne. If thy children will keep my covenant and my testimony that I shall teach them: their children shall also sit upon thy throne for ever- more. For the Lord hath chosen Zion: he hath de- sired it for his habitation. This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it. I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread. I will also clothe her priests with salvation : and her saints shall shout aloud for joy. 186 PSALMS. There will I make the horn of David to bud: I have ordained a lamp for mine anointed. His enemies will I clothe with shame : but upon himself shall his crown flourish. Psalm cxxxvi. Confitemini. OGIVE thanks unto the Lord ; for he is good : for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth fer ever. O give thanks to the Lord of lords : for his mercy endureth for ever. To him who alone doeth great wonders : for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that by wisdom made the heavens : for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that stretched out the earth above the waters : for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that made great lights: for his mercy endureth for ever ; The sun to rule by day: for his mercy endur- eth for ever; The moon and stars to rule by night: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that smote Egypt in their firstborn: for his mercy endureth for ever; And brought out Israel from among them: for his mercy endureth for ever; With a strong hand, and with a stretched-out arm : for his mercy endureth for ever. To him which divided the Red sea into parts: for his mercy endureth for ever ; And made Israel to pass through the midst of it: for his mercy endureth for ever; But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever. PSALMS. 187 To him which led his people through the wil- derness: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him which smote great kings: for his mercy endureth for ever: And slew famous kings: for his mercy endur- eth for ever; Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy endureth for ever; And Og the king of Bashan: for his mercy endureth for ever; And gave their land for a heritage: for his mercy endureth for ever; Even a heritage unto Israel his servant: for his mercy endureth for ever. Who remembered us in our low estate : for his mercv endureth for ever; And hath redeemed us from our enemies : for his mercy endureth for ever. Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever. give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever. Psalm cxxxviii. Confitebor tibi. I WILL praise thee with my whole heart: be- fore the gods will I sing praise unto thee. 1 will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy loving-kindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name. In the day when I cried thou answeredst me: and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul. All the kings of the earth shall praise thee, O Lord : when they hear the words of thy mouth. Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the Lord : for great is the glory of the Lord. 188 PSALMS. Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me. The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever; for- sake not the works of thine own hands. Psalm cxxxix. Domine, probasti. OLOKD, thou hast searched me ; and known me : thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising ; thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down : and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue : but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before : and laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me: it is high, I cannot attain unto it. Whither shall I go from thy Spirit: or whither shall I flee from thy presence \ If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning: and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me : and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me : even the night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee ; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. For Thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. PSALMS. 189 I will praise thee ; for I am fearfully and won- derfully made: marvellous are thy works ; and that my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret rand curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect : and in thy book all my members were written. Which in continuance were fashioned: when as yet there was none of them. How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God : how great is the sum of them ! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand : when I awake, I am still with thee. Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God : de- part from me therefore, ye bloody men. For they speak against thee wickedly: and thine enemies take thy name in vain. Do not I hate them, O Lord, that hate thee : and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee \ I hate them with perfect hatred : I count them mine enemies. Search me, O God, and know my heart : try me, and know my thoughts ; And see if there be any wicked way in me: and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm cxliii. Domhie, ezaudi. HEAR my prayer, O Lord, give ear to my supplications: in thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness. And enter not into judgment with thy serv- ant : for in thy sight shall no man living be jus- tified. 190 PSALMS. For the enemy hath persecuted my soul ; he hath smitten my life down to the ground : he hath made me to dwell in darkness, as those that have been long dead. Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me : my heart within me is desolate. I remember the days of old ; I meditate on all thy works: I muse on the work of thy hands. I stretch forth my hands unto thee : my soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. Hear me speedily, O Lord ; my spirit faileth : hide not thy face from me, lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit. Cause me to hear thy loving-kindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk ; for I lift up my soul unto thee. Deliver me, O Lord, from mine enemies : I flee unto thee to hide me. Teach me to do thy will ; for thou art my God : thy Spirit is good ; lead me into the land of uprightness. Quicken me, O Lord, for thy name's sake : for thy righteousness' sake bring my soul out of trouble. And of thy mercy cut off mine enemies : and destroy all them that afflict my soul ; for I am thy servant. Psalm cxlv. Exaltabo te, Deus. I WILL extol thee, my God, O King: and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. Every day will I bless thee : and I will praise thy name for ever and ever. Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised and his greatness is unsearchable. PSALMS. 191 One generation shall praise thy works to another: and shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty: and of thy wondrous works. And men shall speak of the might of thy ter- rible acts: and I will declare thy greatness. They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness : and shall sing of thy right- eousness. The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion: slow to anger, and of great mercy. The Lord is good to all : and his tender mer- cies are over all his works. All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord : and thy saints shall bless thee. They shall speak of the glory of thy king- dom : and talk of thy power ; To make known to the sons of men his mighty acts: and the glorious majesty of his kingdom. Thy kino'dom is an everlasting kingdom : and thy dominion endureth throughout all genera- tions. The Lord upholdeth all that fall : and raiseth up all those that be bowed down. The eyes of all wait upon thee : and thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thine hand: and satisfiest the desire of every living thins:. The Lord is righteous in all his ways : and holy in all his works. The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him : to all that call upon him hi truth. He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him : he also will hear their cry, and will save them. The Lord preserveth all them that love him : but all the wicked will he destroy. My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord : 192 PSALMS. and let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever. Psalm cxlvi. Lauda ) anima mea. PRAISE ye the Lord : Praise the Lord, O my soul. While I live will I praise the Lord : I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being. Put not your trust in princes : nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help. His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth : in that very day his thoughts perish. Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help : whose hope is in the Lord his God ; Which made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: which keepeth truth for ever; Which executeth judgment for the oppressed : which giveth food to the hungry. The Lord looseth the prisoners: the Lord openeth the eyes of the blind. The Lord raiseth them that are bowed down : the Lord loveth the righteous. The Lord preserveth the strangers ; he reliev- eth the fatherless and widow : but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down. The Lord shall reign for ever, even thy God, O Zion, unto all generations: Praise ye the Lord. Psalm cxlvii. Laudate Dominum. PRAISE ye the Lord, for it is good to sing praises unto our God: for it is pleasant; and praise is comely. The Lord doth build up Jerusalem : he gath- ereth together the outcasts of Israel. PSALMS. 193 He healeth the broken in heart : and bindeth tip their wounds. He telleth the number of the stars : he calleth them all by their names. Great is our Lord, and of great power : his understanding is infinite. The Lord lifteth up the meek : he casteth the wicked down to the ground. Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving : sing praise upon the harp unto our God ; Who covereth the heaven with clouds, who prepareth rain for the earth : who maketh grass to grow upon the mountains. He giveth to the beast his food : and to the young ravens which cry. He delighteth not in the strength of the horse : he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him : in those that hope in his mercy. Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem : praise thy God, O Zion. For he hath strengthened the bars of thy gates : he hath blessed thy children within thee. He maketh peace in thy borders : and filleth thee with the finest of the wheat. He sendeth forth his commandment upon earth : his word runneth very swiftly. He giveth snow like wool : he scattereth the hoar frost like ashes. He casteth forth his ice like morsels : who can stand before his cold ] He sendeth out his word, and melteth them : he causeth his wind to blow, and the waters flow. He sheweth his word unto Jacob : his statutes and his judgments unto Israel. He hath not dealt so with any nation : and as 194 PSALMS. for his judgments, they have not known them. Praise ye the Lord. Psalm cxlviii. Laudate Dominum. PRAISE ye the Lord. Praise ye the Lord from the heavens : praise him in the heights. Praise ye him, all his angels: praise ye him, all his hosts. Praise ye him, sun and moon : praise him, all ye stars of light. Praise him, ye heavens of heavens : and ye waters that be above the heavens. Let them praise the name of the Lord : for he commanded, and they were created. He hath also stablished them for ever and ever : he hath made a decree which shall not pass. Praise the Lord from the earth : ye dragons, and all deeps ; Fire, and hail; snow, and vapour: stormy wind fulfilling his word ; Mountains, and all hills : fruitful trees, and all cedars ; Beasts, and all cattle : creeping things, and flying fowl ; Kings of the earth, and all people : princes, and all judges of the earth ; Both young men, and maidens : old men, and children ; Let them praise the name of the Lord : for his name alone is excellent ; his glory is above the earth and heaven. He also exalteth the horn of bis people, the praise of all his saints : even of the children of Israel, a people near unto him. Praise ye the Lord. PSALMS. 195 Psalm cl. Laudate Dominum. PRAISE ye the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power. Praise him for his mighty acts : praise him ac- cording to his excellent greatness. Praise him with the sound of the trumpet : praise him with the psaltery and harp. Praise him with the timbrel and dance : praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise him upon the loud cymbals : praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord : Praise ye the Lord. THE HISTORY OF THE PASSION OF OE LORD. THEN gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles. If we let him thus alone, all men will be- lieve on him ; and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation. And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, nor consider that it is ex- pedient for us that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not. And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation ; and not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad. Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death. 1 And Jesus going up to Jerusalem took the twelve disciples apart in the way, and said unto them, 2 Be- hold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be ac- complished. For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on : and they shall scourge him, and put him to death ; and the third day he shall rise again. And they understood none of these things : and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken. 3 Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, where Lazarus was which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead. 4 There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him. 5 And as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious ; and she brake the box and poured it on his head. 6 And anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair ; and the house was 1 John ii. 47-53. 4 Matt. xxvi. 6. 2 Matt. xx. 17. 5 John xii. 1, 2. 3 Luke xviii. 31-34. 6 Mark xiv. 3. 197 198 THE PASSION HISTORY. filled with the odour of the ointment. Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which should betray him, Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor ? This he said, not that he cared for the poor ; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein. 1 And Jesus said, Let her alone ; why trouble ye her ? she hath wrought a good work on me. For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good ; but me ye have not always. She hath done what she could : she is come af or eh and to anoint my body to the burying. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her. 2 On the next day 3 when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Beth phage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples, saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her : loose them, and bring them unto me. And if any man say aught unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them ; and straightway he will send them. All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying : Tell ye the daugh- ter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them, and brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes, and they set him thereon. 4 The people therefore that was with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record. 5 And many spread their garments in the way ; and others cut down branches off the trees, and strewed them in the way. 6 And the mul- titudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David : Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord ; Hosanna in the highest. 7 And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples. And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out. And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in 1 John xii. 3-6. 5 John xii. 17. 2 Mark xiv. 6-9. 6 Mark xi. 8. 3 John xii. 12. 7 Matt. xxi. 9. * Matt. xxi. 1-7. PART FIRST. 199 this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side, and shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee ; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another: because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation. 1 And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this ? And the multitude said, This is Jesus, the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee. And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money-changers, and the seats of them that sold doves. And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer ; but ye have made it a den of thieves. 2 And it came to pass, that as he taught the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came upon him with the elders, and spake unto him, saying, Tell us, by what authority doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this au- thority? 3 And Jesus answered and said unto them, I will also ask of you one question, and answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. 4 The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men ? And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven ; he will say, Why then believed ye him not ? But and if we say, Of men ; all the people will stone us ; for they be persuaded that John was a prophet. 5 And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell. And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things. 6 There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it roundabout, and digged a wine-press in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country. And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servant to the husbandmen, 7 that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard : but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty. 8 And again he sent unto them another servant ; and at him they cast stones, and wounded him in the head, and sent him away shamefully handled. And again he sent another; and 1 Luke xix. 39-44. 5 Luke xx. 4-6. 2 Matt. xxi. 10-13. 6 Matt. xxi. 27. 3 Luke xx. 1, 2. 7 Matt. xxi. 33, 34 4 Mark xi. 29. 8 Luke xx. 10. 200 THE PASSION HISTORY. him they killed, and many others ; beating some, and killing some. Having yet therefore one son, his well beloved, he sent him also last unto them, saying, They will reverence my son. 1 But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, This is the heir : come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. What there- fore shall the Lord of the vineyard do unto those husband- men ? 2 They say unto him, He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out his vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their seasons. Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the Scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner : this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes? Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken : but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder. 3 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not ! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that com- eth in the name of the Lord. 4 And when the chief priests and Pharisees had heard his parables, they perceived that he spake of them. But when they sought to lay hands on him, they feared the multitude, because they took him for a prophet ; 5 and they left him, and went their way. 6 II. THEN came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover must be killed. And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the passover, that we may eat. And they said unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare ? And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water ; follow him into the house where he entereth in. And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The Master saith unto thee, 7 My time is at hand ; I 1 Mark xii. 4-6. 5 Matt. xxi. 45, 46. 2 Luke xx. 14. 15. 6 Mark xii. 12. 3 Matt. xxi. 40-44. 7 Luke xxii. 7-11. 4 Matt, xxiii. 37-39. SECOND PART. 201 will keep the passover at thy house with my disciples. 1 And he shall show you a large upper room furnished : there make ready. 2 And his disciples went forth, and came into the city, and found as he had said unto them : and they made ready the passover. 3 And in the evening he sat down with the twelve. 4 And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer : For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God. And he took the cup and gave thanks, and said, Take this, and divide it among yourselves : For I say unto you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, 5 until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom. 6 And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest. And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them ; and they that exercise authority upon them are called bene- factors. But ye shall not be so : but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger ; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sit- teth at meat, or he that serveth ? is not he that sitteth at meat ? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath ap- pointed unto me ; that ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 7 And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him ; Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God ; he riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments ; and took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. Then cometh he to Simon Peter : and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet ? Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now ; but thou shalt know hereafter. Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, 1 Matt, xxvi. 18. 5 Luke xxii. 15-18 2 Luke xxii. 12. 6 Matt. xxvi. 29. 3 Mark xiv. 16, 17. 7 Luke xxii. 24-30. 4 Matt. xxvi. 20. 202 THE PASSION HISTORY. thou hast no part with me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit : and ye are clean but not all. For he knew who should betray him ; there fore said he, Ye are not all clean. So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you ? Ye call me Master and Lord : and ye say well ; for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet ; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord ; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them. 1 When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake. 2 Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I ? He said unto him, Thou hast said. 3 Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved. Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake. He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it? Jesus an- swered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly. Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him. For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast ; or, that he should give something to the poor. He then, having received the sop, went immediately out; and it was night. 4 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat : But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not : and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death. And he said, I tell thee, Peter, 1 John xiii. 2-17. 3 Matt. xxvi. 25. 2 John xiii. 21. 22. 4 John xiii. 23-30. THIRD PART. 203 the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me. 1 And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to 2 the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body, 3 which is given for you : this do in remem- brance of me. 4 After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, 5 and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it. 6 This cup is the New Testament in my blood, 7 which is shed for you 8 and for many for the remission of sins : 9 this do ye, as oft as you drink it, in remembrance of me ; 10 and they all drank of it. 11 And when they had sung a hymn they went out into the mount of Olives. 12 in. AND Jesus lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come ; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee : as thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. I have glorified thee on the earth : I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world : thine they were, and thou gavest them me ; and they have kept thy word. Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee. For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me ; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have be- lieved that thou didst send me. I pray for them : I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me ; for they are thine. And all mine are thine, and thine are mine ; and I am glorified in them. And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. 1 Lukexxii. 31-34. * i Cor. xi. 25. 2 Mark xiv. 22. 8 Lukexxii. 30. 3 Matt. xxvi. 26. 9 Matt. xxvi. 28. 4 Luke xxii. 19. w 1 Cor. xi. 25. 5 1 Cor. xi. 25. u Mark xiv. 23. 6 Matt. xxvi. 27. M Mark xiv. 26. 204 THE PASSION HISTORY. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name : those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition ; that the Scripture might be fulfilled. And now come I to thee ; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them thy word ; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth : thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word ; That they all may be one ; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us ; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them ; that they may be one, even as we are one : I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one ; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am ; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me : for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee : but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it ; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them. 1 When Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, 2 which was named Gethsemane: 3 into winch he entered, 4 and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death : tarry ye here, and watch with me. 5 And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed. 6 And he went a little further, 1 John xvii. 4 John xviii. 1. 2 John xviii. 1. 5 Matt. xxvi. 36-38. 3 Mark xiv. 32. 6 Luke xxii. 41. THIRD PART. 205 and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me : nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation : the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. And he came and found them asleep again : for their eyes were heavy, 1 neither wist they what to answer him. 2 And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words, 3 Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me : nevertheless, not my will, but thine, be done. And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sw^eat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow, and said unto them. Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. 4 Sleep on now, and take your rest : behold, the hour is at hand, and the Sou of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going : behold, he is at hand that doth betray me. And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people. Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he ; hold him fast. 5 Jesus there- fore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye ? They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus said unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them. As soon as he had said unto them, I am he, they went back- ward, and fell to the ground. Then asked he them again, Whom seek ye? And they said, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus answered, I have told you that I am he : if therefore ye seek me, let these go their way : that the saying might be ful- filled, which he spake, Of them which thou gavest me have I lost none. 6 And forthwith Judas came to Jesus, and said, Hail, Master; and kissed him. 7 But Jesus said unto him, 1 Matt. xxvi. 39-43. 5 Matt, xxvi. 45-48. 2 Mark xiv 40. 6 John xviii. 4-9. 3 Matt. xxvi. 44. 7 Matt. xxvi. 49. 4 Luke xxii. 42-46. 206 THE PASSION HISTORY. Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss ? When they which were about him saw what would follow, they said unto him, Lord, shall we smite with the sword? And one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear. 1 The servant's name was Malchus. 2 And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And he touched his ear, and healed him. 3 Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place : for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels ? But how then shall the Scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it .must be ? In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me ? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me, 4 but this is your hour, and the power of darkness. 5 But all this was done, that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples for- sook him, and fled. And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end. 6 IV. THEN the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound him, and led him away to Annas first ; for he was father-in-law to Caiaphas, which was the high priest that same year. Now Caiaphas was he which gave counsel to the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people. 7 The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine. Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world ; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always re- sort ; and in secret have I said nothing. Why askest thou me ? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said. And when he had thus spoken, one of the officers which stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, Answerest thou the high priest so? Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear wit- ness of the evil : but if well, why smitest thou me ? 1 Luke xxii. 48-50. 5 Luke xxii. 53. 2 John xviii. 10. 6 Matt. xxvi. 56-58. 3 Luke xxii. 51. 7 John xviii. 12-14. 4 Matt. xxvi. 52-55. FOURTH PART. 207 Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiaphas the high priest, 1 where all the chief priests and the 2 scribes and the elders were assembled. 3 Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death ; but found none. 4 For many bare false wit- ness against him, but their witness agreed not together. 5 At the last came two false witnesses, and said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days. 6 And the high priest stood up in the midst and asked Jesus, saying, Answerest thou nothing ? what is it which these witness against thee? But Jesus held his peace. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed? 7 But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered, and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. Jesus said unto him, Thou hast said: I am; 8 nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy ; what further need have we of witnesses ? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy. What think ye ? They answered and said, He is guilty of death. Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him ; and others smote him with the palms of their hands, saying, Prophesy unto us, Thou Christ : Who is he that smote thee ? 9 But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple, which was known unto the high priest, and spake unto her that kept the door, and brought in Peter. Then saitli the damsel that kept the door unto Peter, Art not thou also one of this man's disciples? He saith, I am not. 10 But Peter went in, and sat with the servants to see the end. 11 And the servants and officers stood there, who had made a fire of coals, for it was cold; and they warmed themselves : and Peter stood with them, and warmed himself. 12 And a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. 13 But he denied be- fore them all, 14 saying, I know not, neither understand I 1 John xviii. 19-24. 8 Mark xiv. 62. 2 Mark xiv. 53. 9 Matt. xxvi. 63-68. 3 Matt. xxvi. 57. 10 John xviii. 16, 17. 4 Matt. xxvi. 59. 60. n Matt. xxvi. 58. 5 Mark xiv. 56 12 John xviii. 18. 6 Matt. xxvi. 60, 61. 13 Matt. xxvi. 69. 7 Mark xiv. 60, 61. u Matt. xxvi. 70. 208 THE PASSION" HISTORY. what thou sayest. And he went out into the porch ; and the cock crew. 1 And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with him ; for he is a Galilean. 2 One of the servants of the high priest, being his kinsman whose ear Peter cut off, saith, Did I not see thee in the garden with him ? 3 And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them ; for thy speech bewrayeth thee. Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man, 4 of whom you speak. 5 I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. 6 And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow- twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. 7 And Peter went out, and wept bitterly. 8 When the morning was come, the whole multitude of them arose, 9 bound Jesus, and carried him away 10 from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment, 11 and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor. 12 And they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled, but that they might eat the passover. 13 Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us ? see thou to that. And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and de- parted, and went and hanged himself. And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not law T ful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood. And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter's field, to bury strangers in. Wherefore that field w T as called, The field of blood, unto this day. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel did value ; and gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord appointed me. u 1 Mark xiv. 68. 8 Luke xxii. 62. 2 Luke xxii. 59. 9 Luke xxiii. 1. 3 John xviii. 26. 10 Mark xv. 1. 4 Matt. xxvi. 73, 74. n John xviii. 28. 5 Mark xiv. 71. 12 Matt, xxvii. 2. 6 Luke xxii. 60. 13 John xviii. 28. 7 Mark xiv. 72. u Matt, xxvii. 3-10. FIFTH PART. 209 V. PILATE then went out unto them, and said, What ac- cusation bring ye against this man ? They answered and said unto him, If he were not a malefactor, we would not hare delivered him up unto thee. Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, It is not lawful for us to put any man to death : that the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying what death he should die. 1 And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give tribute to Caesar, saying that he himself is Christ a king. 2 Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews? Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me ? Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation, and the chief priests, have delivered thee unto me. What hast thou done ? Jesus an- swered, My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews : but now is my king- dom not from hence. Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then ? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice. Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all. 3 And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, lie answered nothing. Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee ? And he answered him to never a word ; insomuch that the gov- ernor marvelled greatly. 4 And they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up the people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee to this place. 5 When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilean. And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Hercd's jur- isdiction he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time. And when Herod saw Jesus he w r as 1 John xviii. 29-32. 4 Matt, xxvii. 12-14. 8 Luke xxiii. 2. 5 Luke xxiii. 5. 3 John xviii. 33-38. 210 THE PASSION HISTORY. exceeding glad : for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him ; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him. Then he questioned with him in many words : but he answered him nothing. And the chief priests and scribes stood, and ve- hemently accused him. And Herod with his men of war set him at naught, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate. And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together : for before they were at enmity between themselves. And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests, and the rulers, and the people, said unto them, Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the people : and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye accuse him ; no, nor yet Herod : for I sent you to him ; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him: I will therefore chastise him, and release him. 1 Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would. And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas, 2 that for sedition and murder was cast into prison, whom they had desired ; 8 and the multitude crying aloud began to desire him to do as he had ever done unto them. But Pilate answered them saying, Will ye that I release unto you the King of the Jews ? 4 Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ? For he knew that for envy the chief priests 5 had delivered him. 6 When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man : for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him. 7 But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them. And Pilate answered and said again unto them, What will ye then that I should do unto him whom ye call the King of the Jews ? 8 But they cried, say- ing, Crucify him, crucify him. And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done ? I have found no cause of death in him : I will therefore chastise him, and let him go. 9 And they cried out the more exceedingly, 1 Luke xxiii. 6-16. 6 Matt, xxvii. 17, 18. 2 Matt, xxvii. 15, 16. 7 Matt, xxvii. 19. 3 Luke xxiii. 25. 8 Mark xv. 11, 12. * Mark xv. 8, 9. 9 Luke xxiii. 21, 2a. 5 Mark xv. 10. FIFTH PART. 211 Crucify him. 1 And they were instant with loud voices, re- quiring that he might be crucified : and the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed. 2 Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. 3 Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Be- hold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him. Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate sayeth unto them, Behold the man. When the chief priests therefore and of- ficers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him : for I find no fault in him. The Jews answered him, "We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God. When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid ; and went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou ? But Jesus gave him no answer. Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me ? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee ? Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above : therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin. And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him : but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend : whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Csesar. When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gab- batha. And it was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour : and he said unto the Jews, Behold your King ! But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King ? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar. 4 When 'Pilate saw that he could prevail noth- ing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am inno- cent of the blood of this just person ; see ye to it. Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children. Then released he Barabbas unto them : and, when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified. 5 1 Mark xv. 14. 4 John xix. 3-15. 2 Luke xxiii. 23. 5 Matt. xxvi. 24-26. 3 John xix. 1. 212 THE PASSION HISTORY. VI. THEN the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers. And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe. And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews ! And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head. And after that they had mocked him they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him. 1 And there were also two others, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. 2 And he bearing his cross went forth : 3 and as they came out they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name, 4 coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus. And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him. But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children. For, behold, the days are coming, in the which they shall say, Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck. Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us ; and to the hills, Cover us. For if they do these tilings in a green tree, what shall be done in the dry ? 5 And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull, 6 they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh : but he received it not. 7 Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them ; for they know not what they do. 8 And it was the third hour, and they crucified him. 9 And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS. This title then read many of the Jews ; for the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city : and it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin. Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate Write not, The King of the Jews ; but that he said, I am King of the Jews. Pilate answered, What I have written I have written. 1 Matt, xxvii. 27-31. 6 Matt, xxvii. 33. 2 Luke xxiii. 32. 7 Mark xv. 23. 3 John xix. 17. 8 Luke xxiii. 34. 4 Matt, xxvii. 32. 9 Mark xvi. 25. 5 Luke xxiii. 26-31. SIXTH PART. 213 Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part ; and also his coat : now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be : that the Scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did. 1 And sitting down they watched him there. 2 And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others ; let him save himself, if he be Christ the chosen ot God. 3 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleopas, and Mary Mag- dalene. When Jesus, therefore, saw his mother, and the disciple standing by whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son ! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! and from that hour that dis- ciple took her unto his own home. 4 And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, 5 and saying, Ah thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross. Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said, He saved others ; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. He trusted in God ; let him deliver him now, if he will have him : for he said, I am the Son of God. The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth. 6 And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering, rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation ? And we indeed justly ; for we receive the due reward of our deeds : but this man has done nothing amiss. And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verrly I say unto thee, To-day shalt thou be with me in paradise. And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a dark- ness over all the earth until the ninth hour. And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the 1 John xix. 19-24. 4 John xix. 25-27. 3 Matt, xxvii. 36. 5 Matt, xxvii. 39. 3 Luke xxiii. 35. 6 Matt, xxvii. 40-44. 214 THE PASSION HISTORY. midst. 1 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani ? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me ? 2 And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias. 3 After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be ful- filled, saith, I thirst. Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar.* And straightway one of them ran, and took a sponge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink. The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him. 5 When Jesus there- fore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished : and 6 cried with a loud voice, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, 7 he bowed his head and gave up the ghost. 8 And, behold, the vail of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom ; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, and came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many. Now when the cen- turion, and they that were with him watching Jesus, saw the earthquake and those things that were done, 9 that he so cried out and gave up the ghost, 10 he glorified God, say- ing, Certainly this was a righteous man. 11 Truly this man was the Son of God. 12 And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts and returned. 13 VII. AND all his acquaintance and the women that followed him from Galilee stood afar off, beholding these things. 14 Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the Less, 15 and of Joses, and Salome the mother of Zebedee's children. 16 Who also, when he was in Galilee, followed him, and ministered unto him ; and many other women which came up with him unto Jerusa- lem. 17 The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, 1 Luke xxiii. 39-45. 10 Mark xv. 39. 2 Matt, xxvii. 46. u Luke xxiii. 47. 3 Mark xv. 35. 12 Mark xv. 39. 4 John xix. 28, 29. 13 Luke xxiii. 48. • 5 Matt, xxvii. 48-49. u Luke xxiii. 49. 6 John xix. 30. 15 Mark xv. 40. 7 Luke xxiii. 46. 16 Matt, xxvii. 56. 8 John xix. 30. 17 Mark xv. 41. 9 Matt, xxvii. 51-54. PART SEVENTH. 215 that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the Sabbath day (for that Sabbath day was a high day), be- sought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. Then came the soldiers, and brake the le^s of the first and of the other which was crucified with him. But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs: but one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water. And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true; and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe. For these things were done that the Scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken. And again another Scripture saith, They shall look upon him whom they pierced. 1 When the even was come, a rich man of Arimathea named Joseph, 2 an honoura- ble counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, a good man and a just : (the same had not consented to the counsel and the deed of them :) 3 being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, 4 came and went in ' boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus. 5 And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead : and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead. And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph. And Joseph bought fine linen, 6 and took him down. And there came also Nicodemus (which at the first came to Jesus by night), and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pound weight. Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury. Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden ; and in the gar- den a new sepulchre, 7 which he had hewn out in the rock : 8 wherein never man before was laid. 9 There laid they Jesus therefore, because of the Jews' preparation day ; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand. 10 And Joseph rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed. And there was Mary Magdalene and the other Mary sit- ting over against the sepulchre. 11 And the women also which came with him from Galilee followed after, and be- held the sepulchre and how his body was laid. And they 1 John xix. 31-37. 7 John xix. 39-41. 2 Matt, xxvii. 57. 8 Matt, xxvii. 60. 3 Lnke xxiii. 50, 51. 9 Lnke xxiii. 53. 4 John xix. 38. 10 John xix. 42. 5 Mark xv. 43. n Matt, xxvii. 60, 61. 6 Mark xv. 43-46. 216 THE PASSION HISTORY. returned and prepared spices and ointments, and rested the Sabbath day, according to the commandment. 1 Now the next day that followed the day of the prepara- tion, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate, saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again. Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead : so the last error shall be worse than the first. Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch : go your way, make it as sure as ye can. So they went and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone and setting a watch. 2 1 Luke xxiii. 55, 56. 2 Matt, xxvii. 62-66. THE ORDERS FOR MINISTERIAL ACTS. i— Zbc ©rfcer for 1bol£ ^Baptism, 1. The Baptism of Infants. *[ Baptism should be administered in the Church, in the presence of the Congregation ; it may. however, when peculiar circumstances demand it, be administered privately. The Minister shall enter the oames of the Parents, of the Child, and of the Sponsors, with the date of its birth and Baptism, in the Church Record. At the Baptism the following order shall be observed: At the Morning Service, after the Creed, at the Evening Service, after the Lessons or Exhortation, the child shall be presented at the font, and the Minister shall say : Dearly beloved, forasmuch as all men are con- ceived and born in sin, and our Saviour Christ saith, Except a man be born again of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God, I beseech you to call upon God the Father, through our Lord Jesus Christ, that of His goodness and mercy, He would receive this child, by baptism, into the Church of the Re- deemer, and make him a living member of the same. Remember that it is your bounden duty to see that he be taught, as soon as he shall be able to learn, what a solemn promise you have made in his name. And that he may know these things the better, you should admonish him to give due heed to the instruction given in the Church, and to all those things which a Christian ought to know and believe to his soul's salva- tion, that thus this child may be virtuously brought up to lead a godly and a Christian life; remembering always that Baptism doth represent to us our profession, which is, to follow the ex- ample of our Saviour Christ, and to be made like unto Him. For as many of us as have been bap- tized, have put on Christ, that like as He died for (219) 220 HOLT BAPTISM. ns and rose again, so should we die daily unto sin and rise again unto righteousness. Let us pray: Almighty and everlasting God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we call upon Thee for this child, and beseech Thee to bestow upon him the gift of Thy baptism and Thine everlasting grace by the washing of regeneration. Receive him, O Lord, as Thou hast promised by Thy well-be- loved Son, saying: Ask, and it shall be given you, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you. So give now to us who ask; let us who seek, find; open the gate to us who knock; that this child may enjoy the ever- lasting benediction of thy heavenly washing, and may come to the eternal kingdom which Thou hast promised by Christ our Lord. Amen. Hear the words of the Gospel, written by St. Mark, in the tenth chapter, at the thirteenth verse: They brought young children to Jesus, that He should touch them; and His disciples rebuked those that brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and for- bid them not, for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not re- ceive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. And He took them up in His arms, put His hands upon them, and blessed them. ]f The Minister, laying his right hand on the head of the Child, shall say: Our Father, who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven; Give us this THE BAPTISM OF INFANTS. 221 day our daily bread; And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But deliver us from evil ; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. fl Then shall the Minister say : The Lord preserve thy coming in and thy going out, from this time forth and even forever- more. ^f Then shall the Minister ask of the Child through its Parents or Sponsors : Dost thou renounce the devil, and all his works, and all his ways'? Then answer, Yes. Dost thou believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth'? And in Jesus Christ His only Son our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary; Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead and buried; He descended into hell ; The third day He rose again from the dead ; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead] Dost thou believe in the Holy Ghost; The holy Christian Church, the Communion of Saints; The Forgiveness of sins; The Resurrection of the body ; And the Life everlasting \ Then answer, Yes. Wilt thou be baptized into this faith'? Then answer, Yes. \ Then shall the Minister ask of the Parents or Sponsors : Do you promise, by the help of God, to employ your utmost efforts, by precept, discipline and example, to bring up this child in the nurture 222 HOLT BAPTISM. and admonition of the Lord, and to the love and practice of all that is good \ If so, answer, Yes. ^[ He shall then turn to the font and say : Baptism is not simply water, but it is the water comprehended in God's command, and connected with God's word. ][ Then shall the Minister ask : What shall be the name of the child ] ^[ Then shall he baptize with a free application of 'water ', saying : N., I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. Let us pray: Gracious Father in heaven, we render Thee our hearty thanks, that Thou hast permitted us to present this child unto Thee, according to the ordinance of our blessed Saviour: that it has thus been introduced into Thy Church, and brought among the number of those to whom are the promises and the blessings of Thy covenant of grace. Grant, we humbly beseech Thee, that this child may die unto sin, and be made alive unto holiness; that it may be buried with Him by baptism into death ; and that, as it has been planted in the likeness of His death, it may be also in the likeness of His resurrection, and in the end inherit, with us all, Thine ever- lasting kingdom, through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. Amen. ]f Then shall the Minister say : The Lord bless thee, and keep thee. The Lord make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The Lord lift up His coun- tenance upon thee, and give thee peace. Amen. THE BAPTISM OF ADULTS. 22S 2. — The Baptism of Adults. ^f The Baptism of Adults shall, except in cases of sickness, always be ad- ministered in the Church, in the presence of the Congregation. The candidate having presented himself, the Minister, standing at the altar, shall sag : In the natae of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Dearly beloved, we learn from the Word of God and from the experience of our own lives, that all men are conceived and born in sin, and that we must all assuredly perish, except our blessed Lord and Saviour, the Only- Begotten Son of God, deliver us from our sins and guilt. In- asmuch as this person, who now desires to be baptized, is of like sinful and depraved nature, and our Lord Jesus Christ has borne in His own body the sins of the whole world, and has re- deemed and delivered us from death and from everlasting damnation ; I beseech you to call upon God, through our Lord Jesus Christ, that of His goodness and mercy He will receive this person, truly repenting and coming unto Him by faith, into the kingdom of His grace, and bestow upon him everlasting life; confidently believ- ing that He will accept your offering and in- tercession of love, and will assuredly hear our prayer. Let us pray : Almighty and everlasting God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the aid of all who need, the helper of all who flee to Thee for succour, the life of those who believe, and the resurrection of the dead; we call upon Thee for this person, who desires the gift of Thy Baptism, and Thine ever- lasting grace. Receive him O Lord, as Thou 224 HOLY BAPTISM. hast promised by Thy well-beloved Son, saying: Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find ; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. So give now to Mm who asks; let Mm who seeks find ; open the gate unto Mm who knocks, that lie may enjoy the everlasting benediction of Thy heavenly washing, and may come to the eternal kingdom, which Thou hast promised by Christ our Lord. Amen. \ Then shall the minister say : Hear the words of our Lord: Matthew xxviii. 18-20. All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things, whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. In like manner He says (Mark xvi. 16.) : He that belie veth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. In accordance with this command of our Lord Jesus, this person has been instructed in the sav- ing doctrines of the Gospel, and now desires, by Holy Baptism, to be incorporated into the Church of Christ. Forasmuch then as we do not doubt that it is right that his desire should be granted : Let us pray : Our Father, who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven ; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive those who tresspass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But deliver THE BAPTISM OF ADULTS. 225 us from evil ; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. fl Then shall the Minister say to the person to be baptized : The Lord preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. ^[ The Minister shall then ask : Dost thou renounce the devil, and all his works, and all his ways \ Then answer, Yes. Dost thou believe in God the Father Al- mighty, Maker of heaven and earth] And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary ; Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was cruci- fied, dead and buried; He descended into hell; The third day he arose from the dead; He as- cended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead? Dost thou believe in the Holy Ghost ; the Holy Christian Church, the Communion of Saints; The Forgiveness of sins ; The Resurrection of the body; And the Life everlasting'? Then answer, Yes. Wilt thou, with the aid of the Holy Spirit continue steadfast in this faith, and serve the Lord Jesus Christ by a godly life, even unto the end] Then answer, I will, with the help of God. Dost thou sincerely desire to be baptized and to make thy covenant with God] Then answer, Yes. 226 HOLT BAPTISM. ^ The Minister shall then say : O Lord God, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; Thou hearest the solemn vows of this Thy servant (handmaid). Receive him into the covenant of Thy grace, and let him have part in all the benefits secured to us through Jesus Christ our Lord. ^[ The minister shall then turn to the font and say : Baptism is not simply water, but it is the water comprehended in God's command, and connected with God's word. ][ Then shall the person to be baptized kneel down, and the minister shall baptize him, saying : N., I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. fl Then laying his hand upon his head, he shall say : Almighty God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen and keep thee by His grace unto life eternal. Peace be with thee. Amen. Let us pray: Almighty and most merciful God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath taught us by His own conduct to fulfill all righteousness ; we offer to Thee most hearty thanks that this Thy servant (handmaid) has now been engrafted into the body of Christ's Church, and been made a partaker of those heavenly blessings which we have received through our great Mediator. We do most humbly beseech Thee that Thou wouldst keep him, and all of us who have been bap- tized, in steadfast continuance in Thy grace, so that here on earth we may lead truly godly lives, according to Thy good pleasure, and to the praise CONFIRMATION. 227 and glory of Thy holy name, and in the end may receive the promised inheritance in heaven through Jesus Christ our Lord, who ever liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, world without end. Amen. fl The person baptized now standing up, the minister shall give him the right hand of fellowship, and say : Upon the voluntary profession and promises w r hich you have now made, I hereby acknowledge and declare you to be a member of this Christian congregation, and give you, in its name, the right hand of Christian fellowship and love, and authorize you to join with us in the celebration of the Lord's Supper, and to participate in all our spiritual privileges, so long as you remain faithful to your present profession and promises. Go in peace. ii— Ube ©rfcer of Confirmation* \ Confirmation should take place in the Church, in the presence of the Con- gregation. Only when by reason of sickness, or other causes, this is impossible . can it be administered privately. A Hymn shall be sung, after which the candidates for Confirmation shall come to the altar, The Minister, standing at the altar, shall say : The Lord be with you. Congregation. And with thy spirit, M. Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us ; and establish Thou the work of our hands upon us ! C. Yea, the w r ork of our hands establish Thou it. Tf Then shall the Minister say : Dearly beloved in the Lord, you see here pres- ent those who in Holy Baptism were received by 228 CONFIRMATION. our Lord Jesus Christ and made members of His holy Church. In accordance with our Lord's command, thev have been instructed in the Word of God, and led to the knowledge of His will and of His gracious Gospel; and they now desire to be confirmed. It is their hearty wish to be ad- mitted to the enjoyment of all those blessings which the Lord bestows upon His Church, and by partaking of His Holy Supper to be brought into the most intimate union with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. They desire publicly to confess their Christian faith, and for themselves to renew and ratify the promises made in Baptism. Let us therefore beseech Almighty God, our heavenly Father, in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that He would confirm them, so strength- ening them by the grace of His Holy Spirit that they may be kept in the true faith, and in purity and holiness of life, steadfast unto the end. Let us pray : O Lord God, most merciful Father, who dost receive us into Thy kingdom, and dost esteem our souls precious in Thy sight, we beseech Thee of Thy great goodness that Thou wouldst by Thy Holy Spirit so bless and govern these persons that they may make a good confession of Thy name ; that they may ever live in the communion of Thy Church in true faith and obedience to Thy Gospel, and that they may continue stead- fast in the covenant of Thy grace to the end, through Jesus Christ Thy dear Son our Lord. Amen. ]f Then shall the minister ask : 1 . I ask you in the presence of the Omniscient God and of this Congregation : CONFIRMATION. 229 Is it your sincere purpose now solemnly to ratify your baptismal covenant, and to renounce the dominion of the devil, of the world and of sin'? Then answer, Yes. 2. Do you believe in the Triune God, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost; and are you resolved to live in fellowship with Him, and to attain to the blessed liberty of the true followers of Christ \ Then answer, Yes. 3. Do you solemnly promise that you will supremely love and faithfully serve the Triune God, the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit, and that you will live, suffer and die, ac- cording to His will and word'? Then answer, Yes. 4. Will you remain faithful to the doctrines of our Lord Jesus, according to the Confession of our Evangelical Lutheran Church, and will you render a conscientious obedience thereto until death \ Then answer, Yes. 5. Do you promise, with the help of God, to observe all the duties of a regular member of this Christian Church, and submit yourself to its rules of government and discipline ? Then answer, Yes. ^f The candidates shall then kneel, and the minister, laying his right hand on the head of each, shall say one of the folloicing sentences : Thou Shepherd and Bishop of souls! look in mercy upon this Thy servant (handmaid), and let him never be plucked out of Thy hand; keep him in Thy fold unto the end of Ms days, ac- cording to Thv gracious promise. Amen. Or, The Father of mercies and the God of all con- 230 CONFIRMATION. solation grant you, for Christ's sake, His Holy Spirit, guidance and strength to do His holy will, patience and courage in time of suffering, and the blessed hope of everlasting life. Amen. Or, The God of all grace, who hath called you unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, make you per- fect, stablish, strengthen, settle you, and keep you through faith unto life everlasting. Amen. Or, The very God of peace sanctify you wholly, that your whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. Or, May Almighty God, the Father of mercies, ever multiply unto you His grace and peace. May He enable you, by His Holy Spirit, to be- come true followers of His Son; defend you in every time of danger; preserve you faithful unto the end ; and bring you to the happiness of His heavenly kingdom. Amen. Or, Our heavenly Father increase and confirm within you, for Jesus Christ's sake, the gifts of His Holy Spirit ; that so you may grow in faith and in the power of godliness, in patience under suffering, and in the blessed hope of everlasting life. Amen. Or, May God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, give unto you His Holy Spirit, to guide you into all truth, to defend you against all temptations, to strengthen you in every good work, and to bring you at last unto His eternal joy. Amen. Or, Our Lord Jesus Christ, and God, even our CONFIRMATION. 23 1 Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, comfort and strengthen your heart to be faithful unto death, that you may receive the crown of life. Amen. Or, The God of peace make you perfect in every good work, to do His will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Or, Grace be unto you, that you may fight the good fight of faith, and lay hold on eternal life, where- unto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. Amen. Or, The love of Christ so constrain you that you may live henceforth not unto yourself, but unto Him which died for you and rose again. Amen. Or, May you receive the Holy Spirit, to protect and defend you against all evil, to strengthen and help you unto all good, that you may glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's. Amen. Let us pray: Almighty and most merciful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named; Thou hast graciously permitted us to witness a solemn re- newal of the covenant with Thee. Thy Church would render praise to Thee for this Thy mercy, and with one voice would say, Oh give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good, for His mercy en- dureth for ever. For the mountains shall depart 232 CONFIRMATION. and the hills be removed, but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed : Thus hast thou spoken, O Lord our Redeemer. We would now with one accord beseech Thee that Thou w r ouldst keep these Thy young ser- vants, who have here renewed their baptismal covenant as living members of Christ Jesus, stead- fast in the true faith and in obedience unto Thy holy Gospel. Strengthen them by Thy Spirit, that neither false doctrine, fleshly lusts, nor the vanities of the world may lead them astray from that truth which this day they have solemnly con- fessed. Grant them grace that they may grow up into Him in all things which is the Head, even Christ; and evermore increase in wisdom, holiness and righteousness, which is well-pleasing in Thy sight. May they abide in Thy love, and their whole life be a true confession of Thy name, to their own everlasting salvation and to the joy of their friends, to the building up of Thy Church and to the praise of Thy glorious grace. May they now go forth in the peace of Christ and in the joy of the Holy Ghost, being blessed of Thee, Lord, who hast made the heavens and the earth, and who hast reconciled heaven and earth. Lord Jesus Christ, true Shepherd and Bishop of our souls, who for the redemption of Thy people livest and reignest to all eternity, sanctify us all by Thy grace. May we all to-day renew our vows of everlasting fidelity to Thee our Lord and our Redeemer. Give us might and strength to fight a good fight, to finish our course, to keep the faith, that there may be laid up for us the crown of righteousness, which Thou hast prom- ised unto all them that love Thy appearing. Let thy Spirit and Thy peace be upon us and upon our children. THE ORDER FOR CONFESSION. 233 We now commend ourselves to the fulness of Thy grace, O Lord, our God, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, who art able to do exceeding abun- dantly above all that we ask or think — unto Thee be adoration and praise and thanksgiving in the Church by Christ Jesus, throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. ^f All then rising, the minister shall give to each the right hand of fellow - ship, saying : Upon the voluntary profession and promises which you have made, I hereby acknowledge and declare you to be a member of this Christian congregation, and give you in its name the right hand of Christian fellowship and love, and au- thorize you to join with us in the celebration of the Lord's Supper, and to participate in all our spiritual privileges, so long as you remain faithful to your present profession and promises. Go in peace. ^[ Then shall be sung a suitable hymn, after which the services shall pro- ceed as usual. If the Service Preparatory to the Lord's Supper is held in connection with Confirmation, the former should follow im- mediately. in — Ube ©r&er for Confession Preparatory to the Celebration of the Lord's Supper. ^[ The Lord's Supper should be administered, under ordinary circum- stances, at least four times a year : at Christmas, on Easter Sunday, on Wiitsunday. and on a Sunday between Whitsunday and Christmas. The pastor should give timely notice from the pulpit of the intended celebra- tion. Those who intend to commune may report their names to the pastor after the notice has been given, and all who have failed to do this should be required to do it at the time of holding the preparatory service. The names of the communicants- should be recorded in the Church Book. 234 PUBLIC CONFESSION. Immediately after the names have been taken down, the elders of the church shall examine the list, and if any suspended or expelled members shall have handed in their names, they shall be directed not to come to the Holy Communion until restored to their standing in the church. On the day preceding the Communion this service should be held, and all the members should be present. After a sermon or an address, urging careful self-examination and humble and heartfelt confession, the Congregation shall rise, and the Minister, standing at the altar, shall say : Dearly Beloved, I ask you, before the Omnis- cient God, and upon the evidence of your own conscience — Whether you are truly sensible, and with contrite hearts acknowledge and lament, not only that you are by nature sinners, but that you have in various ways, by the omission of duty, and by sinful thoughts, desires, words and actions, grieved and offended the Lord your God and Saviour, and that you have deserved that He should banish you from His presence, and con- demn you to everlasting punishment? If this be your sincere conviction, confess it by saying, Yes. I ask you, whether you truly believe that Jesus Christ has come into the world to save sin- ners, and that all who believe in His name do re- ceive the forgiveness of their sins'? Is it, there- fore, your fervent desire to be delivered from your sins and guilt; and are you persuaded that our heavenly Father is willing, for Jesus Christ's sake, to be gracious unto you, to forgive you all your sins, to cleanse you from all unrighteousness, and to sanctify you to Himself] If this be your sincere belief, confess it by say- ing, Yes. I ask you, whether you are fully resolved henceforth to submit yourselves to the gracious direction of the Holy Spirit, so that you may evermore strive to hate and forsake all manner PUBLIC CONFESSION. 235 of evil, to walk circumspectly before God, and daily to grow in holiness of heart and life \ If this be your serious purpose, confess it in the presence of God and each other by saying, Yes. Let us, devoutly kneeling, make this confession in prayer. ^[ Then, all kneeling, shall be said: Almighty and most merciful Father, we con- fess unto Thee that we have often and grievously sinned in thy sight. We have offended against Thee, not only by numerous outward acts of transgression, but by the secret thoughts, affec- tions and desires of our corrupt hearts, all which are indeed naked and open in Thy sight, but which we cannot fully understand or confess unto Thee. It is with sincere sorrow and heartfelt re- pentance that we acknowledge these our manifold transgressions. We fervently desire the blessed- ness of those whose sins are forgiven and whose transgressions are covered, and long for those con- solations which are promised unto them that mourn. It is our solemn purpose to amend our sinful lives, and to live more godly, righteously and soberly than we have hitherto done. AYe be- seech Thee, O Lord, to enable us, through the as- sistance of Thy Holy Spirit, to carry this reso- lution into effect. And especially prepare us now, we entreat Thee, for the worthy celebration of the Lord's Supper, so that, engaging ill that sacred ordinance, hungering after that bread that perisheth not, and thirsting for the waters of life, we may receive from Thy fullness grace for grace, be strengthened in our faith, and en- abled to love Thee more and to serve Thee bet- ter, making manifest the sincerity of our profes* 236 PUBLIC CONFESSION. sion of faith and love toward Thee by the active charity which we exhibit toward our brethren of mankind. Lord God, our Father in heaven, have mercy upon us ; Lord God, Redeemer of the world, have mercy upon us; Lord God, Holy Spirit, have mercy upon us and give us Thy peace. Amen. ^ Then shall the Minister rise, and say : Upon the confession which you have now made, I, by virtue of my office, as a minister of Jesus Christ, declare to all who do truly repent and heartily believe, and are sincerely resolved by the assistance of the Holy Spirit henceforth to amend your ways, and to lead a godly and pious life, the forgiveness of your sins in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. But, on the other hand, on the authority of the Word of God, and in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord, I declare to all who are impenitent, the hypocritical as well as the openly wicked, that so long as you continue in your impenitence, God will not forgive you your sins, but will retain them against you, and will assuredly punish you for your iniquities in the end ; except you repent before your day of grace be ended, except you sincerely renounce and forsake your evil ways and come to Christ in true penitence and faith ; which we fervently pray you may do ere it be too late. May God have mercy upon every one of us, pardon and deliver us from all our sins, confirm and strengthen us in all goodness, and finally bring us to everlasting life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. MARRIAGE. 237 ^ Then shall the Minister and the Congregation together say : The Lord's Prayer. ^f The Congregation shall then rise, If Then mag be said the Collect for Peace ; after which the Minister shall pronounce the Benediction. iv.— Zbe Communion of tbe Stcft* ^f The sick person having been instructed in God's Word, and com- forted, the pastor mag begin the service bg saying either Psalm cxxx. or Psalm xxv., and John iii. 16. Then, the Bread and Wine having been placed on the table made ready, he shall say the Lord's Prayer and the Words of Institution ; and proceed to the end of the Commu- nion Service ; or he may use the whole Communion office^ beginning at Lift up your hearts. v — Ube ©rt>er for /Ifcarriaoe* In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Dearly beloved, Forasmuch as marriage was instituted by God Himself, and is honourable in all, it becomes those who would enter into this estate duly to weigh what the Scriptures say con- cerning it: " The Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make a help meet for him. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife ; and they shall be one flesh." " Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the Church, and gave Himself for it. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies; he that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the Church. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is 238 MARRIAGE. the Head of the Church. Therefore, as the Church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything." But you should also remember that by reason of our manifold sins, God has appointed that those who enter into this estate should also bear the cross. You cannot therefore expect always to enjoy prosperity; days of adversity will also come; but if you fear God and keep His com- mandments, He will not forsake you. He will strengthen and keep you in every time of need, and comfort you in all your sorrows. I exhort you diligently to consider the same, and to strive to conform your lives thereto. As no impediments have been shown why you may not be lawfully joined together in matrimony, I ask you, in the presence of God and of these witnesses, N., do you take this woman to be your wedded wife, to live together after God's ordinance in the holy estate of matrimony] Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, as a faithful Christian husband is bound to do, in health and in sickness, in prosperity and in adversity; and forsaking all others, keep you only unto her, so long as you both shall live ? Answer, Yes. N., do you take this man to be your wedded husband, to live together after God's ordinance in the holy estate of matrimony'? Will you love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, as a faithful Christian wife is bound to do, in health and in sickness, in prosperity and in adversity; and forsaking all others, keep you only unto him, so long as you both shall live % Answer, Yes. THE ORDER OF MARRIAGE. 239 If If the ring or rings are used, the Minister directing it to be now done, shall say : The ring is an emblem of eternity. Eternal and indissoluble be the bond of your love. ^ Then shall the Minister sag : Join your right hands. Forasmuch as N. and N. have mutually con- sented to live together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, I as a minister of Jesus Christ pronounce them man and wife, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; and what God hath joined together, let no man put asunder. Let us pray : O Eternal God, the Creator and Preserver of all mankind, the Giver of all spiritual grace, the Author of everlasting life, we would acknowledge Thee in all our ways, and devoutly implore Thy direction and blessing. We adore Thee as the source of our benevolent affections, and of all our social satisfactions and comforts. We praise Thee that Thou hast ordained for us domestic in- stitutions. And we beseech Thee to behold with Thy favor and to bless these Thy servants, who have now entered into the closest and tenderest of all earthly connections. Help them to fulfill with fidelity the vow and covenant which they have made in Thy presence; that the relation in which they stand to each other may not be to them a state of temptation and sorrow, but of holiness, joy and indissoluble love. Give them grace to overlook each other's infirmities, to cherish a due regard for each other's opinions and feelings, to be just to each other's virtues and good intentions, to improve each other's 240 INSTALLATION OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL. understanding and heart, and to travel hand in hand to the end of life. Enable them, by per- severing affection, by a worthy deportment and by united devotions to soften to each other the unavoidable cares of life, to alleviate its sorrows, to increase its innocent enjoyments, and to edify their friends and all around them. And having been pious, virtuous and happy in their con- nection here on earth, may they be at last united in the realms of everlasting love and bliss, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. ^f If the marriage takes place in church, the ceremony may begin and close with an Anthem or Hymn. vi — Ube ©jfcer for tbe installation of tbe Gburcb Council. ^f The officers elect shall present themselves before the altar, and the Minister shall say : Dear brethren, you have been duly elected by the members of this church as its officers.* As your brethren have thus shown that they confide in your readiness to discharge with fidelity the offices to which you have been chosen, I now in- vite your attention to a brief statement of your of- ficial duties. 1. The duties of an Elder are these: He shall set before the church a truly Christian example. He shall take care that evangelical doctrine and Christian discipline are maintained in the church. He shall visit the schools of the church from time to time, and see that good order is observed in them, and that the children are properly in- structed. INSTALLATION OF THE CHURCH COUNCIL. 241 When discord and controversies arise, he shall endeavor, as far as possible, to reconcile the parties concerned and to restore peace. If the Pastor desire it, he shall accompany him on his visits to the sick. In the absence of the Pastor, he shall condnct public worship. 2. The duties of a Deacon are these : He shall set before the church a truly Christian example. He shall render all necessary aid in the ser- vices of the sanctuary, and especially in the preparation for the Lord's Supper. He shall take up all collections in the church. It shall be his duty to see that, in accordance with Christ's command, the minister of the church be properly supported, and that all things connected with the public worship of God be done decently and in order, and that the poor of the church are properly cared for. ^f Then shall the minuter say : You have thus heard, my brethren, what are the duties that pertain to your respective offices. In order that the Congregation may be assured of your willingness to perform them to the best of your ability, you will now in the presence of God and each other make known this your will- ingness by saying, Yes. Let us pray: Lord Jesus Christ, who art the chief Shepherd and Bishop of the flock which Thou hast pur- chased with Thy blood, we thank Thee that Thou continuest to dispose men to labor in Thy church, and faithfully to provide for its temporal 242 INSTALLATION OF A PASTOR. and spiritual welfare. Blessed Saviour, vouch- safe Thy grace and favor to these brethren. En- lighten and guide them by Thy Holy Spirit, that they may know Thy will, and that their services to Thy Church may redound to its good and to Thy praise. Fill their hearts with love to Thee, to Thy word and to their brethren, whom they are to benefit by their example, counsel and active services; so that, ever seeking help from Thee in faith, they may with alacrity and cheer- fulness discharge their duties. Hear, O Lord, and answer our prayers, for the sake of that love wherewith Thou lovest us. Amen. fl The Minister, giving his right hand to each, shall say : May the Lord direct and assist you by His Holy Spirit; may He counsel and strengthen you in all your undertakings, and encourage you to labor diligently for the prosperity of this church, and to fulfill with fidelity your respective duties. Depart in peace, and may the God of peace bless you. Amen. vii — Ube ©r&er for tbe installation of a pastor, fl If the Minister who is to be installed preaches the sermon, the In- stallation should precede it. But if the President of the Ministerium, or another Minister appointed by him, preaches, the Installation should follow the sermon. The officiating Minister shall begin with the regular Sunday Morning Service, proceeding as far as the reading of the Lessons, when he shall say the Collect here following : Let us pray : Most merciful God, our heavenly Father, who hast commanded us by Thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord, that we should pray Thee to send forth laborers into Thy harvest, we earnestly beseech INSTALLATION OF A PASTOR. 243 Thee to send to us continually true teachers and ministers of Thy word, and so enlighten their minds with the knowledge of Thy truth that they may faithfully make known Thy whole counsel; that we, being admonished, enlightened, nour- ished, comforted and strengthened by Thy heavenly and everlasting Word, may in this present world do those things which please Thee, and finally come to the enjoyment of eternal life, through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. ^f Then shall the following Scripture Lessons be read instead of, or after, the Epistle and Gospel for the day : 1 Timothy iii. 1 : yi. V ; vi. 3, 21 ; Acts xx. 28, 31 ; John xx. 21, 23. If the Minister installed preaches, now, if not, at the close of the sermon, the officiating Minister, standing at the altar, shall say : In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. Beloved brethren, members of this Christian church, we have been duly authorized to install as your Pastor and Teacher, N. N., our esteemed brother and fellow-laborer in the service of our Lord Jesus Christ. Although we do not doubt that the Congregation have fully concurred in his election, it becomes us, nevertheless, to pay due regard to church order. Therefore, before we proceed to this Installation, we desire to be duly certified by the congregation, through its council, that you have chosen this brother to be your Pastor. ^[ This may now be done, according to previous arrangement, either by the delivery to the officiating Minister of a written call, or by the oral declaration of one or more of the Church Council appointed for this purpose. Then shall the officiating Minister say : We now proceed with pleasure to discharge the duty entrusted to us, and request our brother to present himself before the altar. Tf The Minister to be installed now presents himself before the Altar ; hi should be accompanied by the members of the Church Council. 244 INSTALLATION OF A PASTOR. Receive then, dear brother, the holy office to which you have been duly chosen. Keceive it with its privileges and its responsibilities. We all entertain the confident hope that you will dis- charge its duties with conscientious fidelity, in the sight of God and of men. While you seek to become all things to all men, you will make it the great aim of your labors to promote true and vital godliness and to win souls to Christ. You will regard with special interest the lambs of your flock, taking care that they are early in- structed in the doctrines of the Gospel, that they may be the planting of the Lord, and flourish in the courts of our God, and thus not only attain their own salvation, but become a blessing to the Church. You have already in your secret prayer vowed unto God to perform all these duties ; and you will now announce this your purpose to the con- gregation about to be committed to your charge. I therefore ask you, before the omnipresent God, the Searcher of all hearts, at the sacred Altar of our Lord Jesus Christ, and in the presence of this Christian congregation; Are you firmly and earnestly resolved to fulfill all the duties of your holy office with conscientious fidelity; will you order all your instructions according to the Word of God in Holy Scripture, and the Con- fessions of our Evangelical Lutheran Church founded on the same, and by your life and con- versation show yourself a true minister of our Lord Jesus Christ ] If this be your serious pur- pose, announce it by saying: Ansvier, Yes, by the help of God. ][ Then shall the officiating Minister say : The Lord, who hath heard your promise, grant INSTALLATION OF A PASTOR. 245 unto you strength and power to perform the same. May He at all times enlighten you by His Spirit, comfort you with His peace, and crown your labors in His name with abundant success. ^[ Then shall he turn to the Congregation, and say : Dear brethren, receive your Pastor with that respect and love to which he is justly entitled. You have yourselves chosen him to be your Pas- tor; and without your respect and love he cannot prosecute the work of the Lord with success. Be mindful of the admonition of the apostle : " Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves : for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account : that they may do it with joy and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you." Receive him then with fixed purpose to do everything in your power to cause him, even in eternity, to bless the day that brought him among you. Do not forget his temporal necessities, but administer liberally and cheerfully to his wants, according as God has prospered you. Duly regard his labors in your behalf, and esteem him very highly in love for his work's sake, aud be peaceably minded toward him, aid- ing and comforting him in his conflicts by your prayers. Happy the congregation that rightly estimates the sendees of a faithful, godly minister ; and happy the minister upon whom the Lord hath bestowed the privilege of laboring in such a Congregation ! Let us now entreat the Lord that the connection which has this day been formed may be thus happy and blessed to Pastor and Congregation. 246 INSTALLATION OF A PASTOR. Prayer. Almighty and everlasting Father ; Thou hast established a kingdom for Thyself upon the earth. Thou hast founded for Thyself, in Thy Son Jesus, a holy Church, against which the gates of hell cannot prevail. It is Thy gracious will that from this blessed institution, salvation to the souls of men shall go forth unto the end of days. Praise and adoration be unto Thee, the Father of mercies, for this manifestation of Thy goodness and grace. We render praise and thanksgiving to Thee. Glory be to Thee for all the blessings which the preaching of Thy Gospel in these Thy courts hath brought to immortal souls. And peace be with all who have labored in Thy service within this Congregation, and have been faithful in their labors. Our Father in Christ, Thou dost this day send another laborer into this Thy harvest field. Thou dost command him to spread Thy heavenly light, to invite men to Thy heavenly consolations ; in Christ's stead to beseech those whom He has re- deemed, "Be ye reconciled unto God." Look down in mercy upon him, that he may fulfill his holy office here to the praise of Thy glorious Name. Replenish him with all those Thy gifts which are requisite to the faithful and successtul execution of his office. Support him in all his endeavors by Thy mighty power, and crown his sincere efforts with blessed success. Give him strength to be faithful to his high calling, even amid difficulties and opposition. And when at last his work on earth is ended, may he as a faith- ful servant enter into the joy of his Lord. O Lord, bless this congregation. Bless the of- ficers and all the members of the Church. Pre- INSTALLATION OF A PASTOR. 247 serve Thine altar perpetually in their midst, and ever keep alive upon it Thy holy fire. May Thy "Word and Sacraments be continued to them in their purity, and the peaceful kingdom of Thy Son so flourish and prosper, that all who worship Thee in this place may in the end find their names written in the Lamb's book of life. O Lord our God, who doest more than we can ask or think, fill us all with Thy grace. O Thou God of peace, sanctify us wholly, that our whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. If A Hymn shall be sung, after which the newly -installed Pastor, kneel- ing with his face to the altar, shall say : Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. ^f Then rising and turning to the Congregation, he shall say : The Lord be with you. ^f The Congregation shall say : And with thy spirit. ^f The Minister shall say : Let us pray: Most merciful God, our heavenly Father, give, we beseech Thee, unto me, and unto this congre- gation, Thy Holy Spirit and Christian faithful- ness and wisdom. Make me a diligent and worthy teacher and servant of Thy Divine word, and thus build up and bless Thy Church; to the end that we, being admonished, enlightened, nourished, comforted and strengthened by Thy heavenly and everlasting Word, may persevere in the profession of Thy name, unto the end, through Jesus Christ, Thy dear Son, our Lord. Amen. If Then shall he pronounce the Benediction. 248 LICENSURE. ix — ube ©roer of ^licensure of Canoioates. fl A suitable hymn shall be sung, and the candidate shall come before thti altar. ■ The President shall then say : In the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. Beloved in the Lord: You stand here in the presence of God to receive authority from the Church to preach the gospel of reconciliation. Having found you possessed of the requisite qualifications, we consider ourselves fully author- ized solemnly to invest you with this sacred office. Hear first the word of God which is recorded in Matt, xxviii. 18-20: "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and on earth. Go ye there- fore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen." You are to teach and exhort, to feed and take care of the flock of Christ ; and likewise to gather in the scattered sheep, that they may be saved. Never lose sight of the momentous duties which pertain to this office. What indescribable guilt would you incur if through your negligence and slothfulness, or the actual violation of your trust, immortal souls should be neglected and perish! But unspeakably great and glorious will be your reward if through your instrumentality many precious souls shall be brought to Jesus and res- cued from temporal and eternal destruction. The duties which devolve upon you as a Licen- tiate in the Gospel Ministry are as follows* LICENSURE. 249 1. A licensed candidate is authorized to per- form all ministerial acts in the congregations committed to him. 2. His duty is to preach the pure, unadulter- ated Word of God, to give religious instruction to children, to perform all other duties appertaining to the same office, to prosecute his studies with diligence, and in all cases of difficulty to seek the advice of the president, or of his elder brethren in the ministry. 3. He must keep a diary of his ministerial acts, and present it, together with a few sermons of his own composition, annually to the Synod for its inspection. His certificate of licensure must also be returned in order to its renewal. 4. He is required to attend the annual synod- ical meetings, and should he not be able, a w r rit- ten excuse must be sent, as well as his diary, with two or three sermons and his license. These, beloved brethren, are the duties which you are now authorized and required, by the help of God, to perform. Will you strive to ful- fill them to the best of your ability, and faithfully discharge the duties of the office with which you are entrusted; will you preach in their purity the doctrines of God's holy Word, as they are set forth in the Confessions of our Church ; and will you endeavor by the grace of God to be a pat- tern to your congregation in faith and love] If so, declare this your purpose in the presence of God and this Christian assembly by saying, Yes. ^f The President shall say : You have witnessed a good confession, and to it we say Yea and Amen. ^f The President shall hand him the license, and say : 250 LICENSURE. Receive this license, which, until the next meeting of Synod, invests you with the office of the Holy Ministry. And now, agreeably to ancient and sacred usage, extend to us your right hand in confirma- tion of the promises which you have made. Let us pray: Lord Jesus Christ ! Thou art truly the Chief Shepherd and Bishop of Thy Church. Thou hast founded, preserved and governed it unto this day. Thou hast appointed teachers and evan- gelists to be stewards of the mysteries of God, to instruct, to exhort, to beseech, to break the bread of life in Thy name and in Thy stead. Look in mercy upon these Thy servants who have been called to this office. Grant them a correct un- derstanding of Thy truth; fill them with love to Thee and toward those whom Thou hast pur- chased with Thy blood; and quicken them to pure zeal in the cause of human salvation, and clothe them with the ornament of an irreproach- able walk and conversation, that so they may serve Thee with fidelity and in godly sincerity, laboring for the extension of Thy kingdom, and the salvation of immortal souls. Our Father, who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But de- liver us from evil; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. ^f Then shall th fi President pronounce the Benediction. ORDINATION. 251 x.— XLbc ©r&er of ©r&ination to tbe ©ffice of tbe /IfMnistr£, fl Ordination usually takes place before the assembled St/nod, but should any Congregation desire that its Minister be ordained in the Church where he is called to serve, and be willing to defray the expenses, the re- quest should be granted. If the officers of Synod cannot attend the Or- dination, the President shall appoint a committee for this purpose. A sermon on the Office of the Ministry should be preached ; if this cannot be done, an address at the altar should precede the Ordination. After the sermon a Hymn of Invocation of the Holy Spirit should be sung. At the close of the hymn the ordaining Minister and his assistants shall go to the altar, and the Candidates shall stand before it. The ordain- ing Minister shall say : In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and ot the Holy Ghost. Amen. Or, The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Our Lord Jesus Christ after His resurrection said to His disciples (John xx. 21), Peace be unto you : as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. When He was about to ascend into heaven, He said to them (Matthew xxviii. 18), All power is given to me in heaven and in earth. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, bap- tizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost ; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have com- manded you: and lo, I am with you alway, even to the end of the world. And when He ascended up far above all heavens, that He might fill all things, He gave some apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers ; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ (Ephesians iv. 10). 252 ORDINATION. Therefore the Office of the Ministry of recon ciliation, the Office of the Spirit whose work it is to justify, to renew and to save, was instituted by the Lord Himself. Not that they are sufficient of themselves to hold this Office of the New Testament, but their sufficiency is of God. They are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by them ; and they have received from God a ministration of exceeding glory. They should therefore adorn their ministry in all things, as St. Paul the apostle writes to Timothy and Titus: A bishop must be blame- less, the husband of one wife; one that ruleth well his own house, having his children in sub- jection with all gravity ; (for if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the Church of God]) not self-willed, not soon angry, vigilant, sober, not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre, of good be- havior, temperate, just, holy, given to hospitality, a lover of good men, not a brawler, not covetous, but patient; not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil; apt to teach, holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. Moreover, he must have a good report of them which are without, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. He must be an example to the flock in word, in con- versation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. He must give attendance to reading, to exhorta- tion, to doctrine ; and not neglect the gift that is in him, which was given him by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. He must meditate upon these things, and give him- ORDINATION. 253 self wholly to them, that his profiting may appear to all. He must take heed to himself and to the doctrine, and continue in them, for in so doing he shall both save himself and them that hear him. The same blessed apostle has briefly set. forth all these tilings in his charge to the elders at Ephesus, Acts xx. 28, where he says : Take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the Church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood. From all these things vou learn to how high a dignity, and to how weighty an office and charge, you are called ; and that that is most certainly true which the apostle saith : If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. Foras- much then as your office and work is of so great difficulty, and you are not able of yourself faith- fully to fulfill it, so as shall be well pleasing to God and to the edification of the Church, we ex- hort you to put your trust in the almighty grace of Jesus Christ our Lord, and to comfort your- selves with His help. They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. And He who has promised to be with us alway, even unto the end of the world, will uphold you and prosper you in that whereunto He has sent you, And may He whose strength is made perfect in our weakness now give you grace, with pure lips and sincere hearts, to make that confession which the Church has authorized us to ask of you. To this end lift up your hearts unto God, and say: ^f The Candidates shall say with him : Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, I beseech Thee to strengthen me now by Thy good Spirit that with gladness and sincerity of heart, I may 254 ORDINATION. confess my purpose to serve Thee in doctrine and life; so that ever hereafter this hour may be blessed to my soul. Out of the depths do I cry to Thee, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice; let Thine ear be attentive to the voice of my suppli- cations. I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in His word do I hope. Amen. ^f Here the open Bible shall be placed before the persons to be ordained, and each shall place his right hand upon it, and the ordaining Minister shall say : I now demand of you, beloved brethren in the Lord, in the presence of God and our Lord Jesus Christ, and also of this Christian assembly: Whether you are now ready, after due considera- tion, to take upon you this holy Office, and as God shall give you strength, to execute and discharge the same in such manner as shall be well pleasing to the Lord and Chief Shepherd of the Church'? Will you preach the pure Word of God, in accordance with the true understand- ing of the same, as set forth in the Confessions of our Church ; and will you, by the grace of God, set to others the example of a godly life ] If you so purpose, confess it before God and this Chris- tian congregation by your solemn assent. ^f The persons to be ordained shall then say, one after the other : Yes, with my whole heart, the Lord helping me, through the power and grace of His Holy Spirit. ][ Then shall the ordaining Minister say : You have witnessed a good confession before many witnesses, whereunto we say, Yea and Amen. Kneel down before the omnipresent God, and receive with prayer and supplication this holy consecration. ORDINATION. 255 ^[ The persons to be ordained kneeling, the ordaining Minister shall say : Upon these solemn vows, which you have now taken upon you before God and men, we beseech God, the Father of our blessed Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, the only Lord of the harvest, that He would so replenish you with His Holy Spirit that vou may be fitted worthily to exercise this sacred office. May He so strengthen and keep you that you may give no offence in anything, that the ministry be not blamed ; but in all things approve yourselves as the ministers of God in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in labors, in watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by long-suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers and yet true; as unknown and yet well known; as dying, and behold, ye live ; as chastened and not killed; as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich ; as having nothing, yet possessing all things (2 Corinthians vi.). The Lord grant you grace to do and suffer the work of the Gospel Ministry, that in that great day ye may be ready to appear before the judg- ment-seat of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give answer to the righteous Judge, to receive from His hand glory and honor and immortality, and to shine as the brightness of the firmament and as the stars for ever and ever. Amen. \ The assisting Ministers shall say : Amen. Amen. \ Then the ordaining Minister, with his assistants, shall lay their hands upon the head of every one to be ordained, the ordaining Minister say- ing : 256 ORDINATION. We now commit unto thee, by the imposi- tion of our hands, the holy Office of the Word and the Sacraments of the Triune God; we ordain and consecrate thee to the ministry of reconcilia- tion in the Church of Jesus Christ, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. fl The assisting Ministers shall say : Amen. Amen. fl Then all the ordained Ministers shall rise and say : Our Father, who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy name ; Thy kingdom come ; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven ; Give us this day our daily bread ; And forgive us our tress- passes, as we forgive those who trespass against us ; And lead us not into temptation ; But deliver us from evil; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. ^[ The ordaining Minister shall then say : Most merciful God, our heavenly Father, through Thy dear Son our Lord Jesus Christ, Thou hast declared, " The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few ; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers into His harvest." In obedience to this Thy command, we humbly and heartily beseech Thee plenteously to endow these Thy servants, us and all who are called to the office and work of Thy ministry, with Thy Holy Spirit, that we, with all who preach Thy word, may be Thy faithful Evangelists, and continue steadfast against all the temptations of the world, the flesh and the devil, to the end that through our endeavors Thy name may be hallowed, Thy ORDINATION. 257 kingdom be extended, and Thy will be done on earth. May it please Thee to restrain and bring to naught all Thy enemies, who blaspheme Thy name and hinder Thy kingdom; and wherever Thy servants preach and labor, do Thou bless their preaching and prosper the work of their hands and hearts to the praise of Thy most holy Name, and to the salvation of souls, through Thy dear Son our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, world without end. ^[ The congregation shall say : Amen. ^[ The persons ordained shall now rise. ^f The ordaining Minister shall say to the persons ordained : Go then and feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a readv mind ; not as beino* lords over God's heritage, but being ensampies to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. The Lord bless you from on high, and make you a blessing unto many, that you may bring forth fruit, and that your fruit may remain unto eter- nal life. \ The persons ordained shall say : Amen. ^ All the ordained Ministers present shall then give to the persons or- dained the right hand of fellowship. ^[ Then shall be sung a Hymn of praise and thanksgiving. ^f The Lord's Supper may now be administered, the service beginning at the Words of Institution. Or the service may be closed with the Bene- diction. If the Ordination takes place in the congregation of the person ordained, he shall not preach at that time. 258 LAYING OF A CORNER-STONE. xi.— Ube ©r&er for tbe Xa^ina of tbe Corner* stone of a Cburcb* ^f The Minister and the Church Council shall go up, in procession, to the place where the church is to be erected, saying the following : Psalm cxxii. I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord. Our feet shall stand within Thy gates, O Jerusalem. Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together; whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the Lord. For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: They shall prosper that love thee. Peace be within thy walls and prosperity within thy palaces. For my brethren and companions' sakes I will now say, Peace be within thee. Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek thy good. ^f The officiating Minister, standing near the corner-stone, shall then say : Beloved in the Lord, it is right and proper, and in accordance with the Holy Scriptures, that in all our doings we should look up to Al- mighty God, the Father of lights, from whom cometh every good and perfect gift, and beseech him to direct us by His good Spirit, and to pros- per the work of our hands with His most gra- cious help. Especially, therefore, when we are now assembled to commence a house which is to be set apart to His honor and service, and in which His holy name is to be worshiped, His Word is to be proclaimed and His Sacraments are to be administered by the Ministry whom He hath commissioned, let us humbly and devoutly suppli- cate His assistance, protection and blessing. LAYING OF A CORNER-STONE. 259 Let us pray : Almighty and everlasting God, who art always more ready to hear than we to pray, and art wont to give more than either we desire or deserve ; pour down upon us the abundance of Thy mercy, forgiving us those things whereof our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things which we are not worthy to ask, but through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Direct us, O Lord, in all our doings with Thy most gracious favor, and further us with Thy continual help; that in all our works begun, con- tinued and ended in Thee, we may glorify Thy holy Name; and finally, by thy mercy, obtain everlasting life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. ^f Then shall the Minister and Congregation say : Our Father who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy name ; Thy kingdom come ; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven ; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But de- liver us from evil; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory for ever and ever. Amen. *} Then shall the builders lay the stone in order ; the officiating Minister may read the inscription, and mention the articles to be placed in it, and deposit them in the stone. When the stone is set in order and closed, the Minister shall say : Our help is in the name of the Lord, Congregation. Who made heaven and earth. M. Except the Lord build the house : G. They labor in vain that build it. ^f Then the Minister, striking the stone three times with a hammer, shall say: 260 LAYING OF A CORNER-STONE. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. I lay the corner-stone of an edifice to be here erected, by the name of Evangelical Lu- theran Church, and to be devoted to the service of Almighty God, agreeably to the principles of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in its doctrines, ministry, liturgy, rites and usages. Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ — who is God over all, blessed for ever; — in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace. Amen. Minister. O Lord, open Thou my lips. Congregation. And my mouth shall show forth Thy praise. ^f Then shall the Minister and the Congregation say : I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord ; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary; Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead and buried ; He descended into hell ; The third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy Chris- tian Church, the Communion of Saints; The Forgiveness of sins; The Resurrection of the body ; And the Life everlasting. Amen. fl Then shall the Minister say : Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost: Congregation. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. LAYING OF A CORNER-STONE. 261 M. Praise ye the Lord. C. Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. ^f Then shall be sung a Hymn of praise ^ after which the minister shall say: Let us pray: Blessed be Thy name, O Lord, that it hath pleased Thee to put it into the hearts of Thy servants to commence the erection of a building in which Thy holy Name is to be worshiped, and the messages of reconciliation are to be pro- claimed, and the means of Thy grace and our salvation to be administered. Prosper Thou them, O God, in this their undertaking; oh prosper Thou their handiwork. Give to the members of this congregation unity of counsel, purity of intention and a supreme aim at the ad- vancement of Thy glory in promoting the exten- sion and interests of Thy Holy Church, appointed for the salvation of mankind. Guard by Thy Providence everything which may appertain to the building which is now begun in Thy fear and in dependence on Thy blessing. And grant that all who are in any way connected with this tem- ple to be made with hands, may seek those influ- ences of Thy Holy Spirit by which their souls will be made temples holy unto Thee and pre- pared for that city of the living God which is eternal in the heavens. Hasten, we beseech Thee, the time when Thy Church, at unity in itself, shall serve Thee in godly quietness, and when all who profess Thy holy Name shall agree in the truth of Thy holy Word — when all shall be united as true members in the blessed unity of that holy body of which Thy Son is the Head; and glorifying Thee in Thy Church on earth with one heart and one mouth, be finally numbered 262 THE CONSECRATION OF A CHURCH. with Thy Saints in Thy Church triumphant. All which we ask through the merits of Thy Son Jesus Christ, w 7 ho liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen. ^f Then may follow the Address, after which a Hymn shall be sung, during which a collection may be taken up. Then shall the Minister say : Let us pray: O most merciful God, gracious Father, we give Thee most hearty thanks that Thou hast counted us worthy to begin an edifice set apart for Thy worship ; and we beseech Thee so to prosper our work by Thy power and goodness that it may be completed as it is now begun, under Thy favor and blessing, and that soon a devout and joyful congregation may be assembled here. O Thou, who art the Protector of all that trust in Thee, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy, increase and multiply upon us Thy mercy, that Thou being our Ruler and Guide, we may so pass through things temporal that we finally lose not the things eternal. Grant this, O heavenly Father, for Jesus Christ's sake, our Lord. Amen. If Then shall the Minister say the Benediction. xii.— xrbe ©rfcer for tbe Consecration of a Cburcb, Tf The Ministers and the Church Council going up the aisle of the church to the altar, shall repeat the following Introit : Minister. How amiable are Thy tabernacles, O Lord of Hosts. Answer. My soul longeth, yea fainteth for the courts of the Lord: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God. For a day in Thy courts is better than a thousand. THE CONSECRATION OF A CHURCH. 263 M. Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors : A. And the King of glory shall come in. M. Who is this King of glory] A. The Lord of Hosts, He is the King of glory. fl When the Ministers come to the altar, the whole Congregation shall rise and sing or say the Gloria Patri. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, And to the Holy Ghost : As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, World without end. Amen. Minister, The Lord be with you. Congregation. And with thy spirit. ^f Then shall the Minister say : Let us pray : Almighty and everlasting God, Thou art the King of glory ; and unto Thee alone who dwellest in the high and holy place, be praise and adoration, from the host of heaven and from all 'the dwellers upon earth. We Thy people come before Thy divine presence on this day with joyful hearts, to worship Thee in this house which Thou hast enabled Thy servants to build, and in which Thy Name shall henceforth be re- corded. Receive, we beseech Thee, our humble thanksgiving, our cheerful praises, and our sin- cere adoration, as the first offerings which we here bring before the throne of Thy majesty. Send down Thy Holy Spirit upon us, that we may lift up holy hands and pure hearts unto Thee. Let Thy glory fill this house, and Thy goodness ap- pear unto Thy servants. Hear our prayer, O 264 the consecration of a church. Lord our God, who livest and reignest for ever and ever. Amen. ^f Then shall the officiating Minister say : Dearly Beloved : Mankind in all ages and in all places have common wants and enjoy common blessings ; it is therefore proper that they should unite with one another in the worship of the Lord of life and Giver of all good. God has declared that such worship is acceptable to Him, and His people have experienced that it is good to say to one another, Oh come, let us worship and bow down : let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for He is our God, and we are the peo- ple of His pasture, and the sheep of His fold. But for the performance of this sacred duty it is necessary, not only that special seasons, but also that particular places, should be appropriated. Holy men in all ages have esteemed the erection of houses for the worship of God a good work. This work is especially sanctioned by the divine appointment of the tabernacle and temple under the old dispensation; the importance of frequent- ing them is enforced by the example of Christ and the lessons of His Apostles; and the con- secration of them to the service of the Most High, or the separation of them from worldly and com- mon uses, is desirable, that when we meet to- gether for religious purposes, no thought or emotion foreign to that great object may be awakened by the place. For such a consecration we are now assembled. Let us hear from the Holy Scriptures in what manner in ancient time, the first temple of the only true God was dedicated. (Read 1 Kings viii, 22-30, and 54-58.) Hear also what St. Paul says. {Read Eph. ii. 11-22, and Heb. x. 19-29.) THE CONSECRATION OF A CHURCH. 265 ^[ Then shall the Minister and the Congregation say : The Apostles' Greed. I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord ; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary; Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead and buried ; He descended into hell ; the third day He rose again from the dead ; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; The holy Christian Church, the Com- munion of Saints; The Forgiveness of sins; The Resurrection of the body; And the Life ever- lasting. Amen. fl Then shall the officiating Minister say : And now in this faith, and by the authority committed to us by the Church of Christ, and with hearts lifted up to Almighty God, from whom cometh down every blessing; We, Ministers of the Church of Christ here assembled, do set apart and consecrate this edifice to a house of God, to a place of assembly for the Christian Church under the name of N. N. Evangelical Lutheran Church, separating it henceforth from all unhallowed, ordinary and common uses. We do consecrate it, with its Pulpit, its Altar (its Bap- tismal Font) and all its parts to the honour of Almighty God our heavenly Father, for the offering up to Him of praise and thanksgiving, of prayer and intercession. We consecrate it to the preservation and furtherance of the Gospel of His only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, the Enlio'htener and Redeemer of the world, that in it the Word of the Cross may be preached, 266 THE CONSECRATION OF A CHURCH. according to the Confessions of our Evangelical Lutheran Church, His holy Sacraments may be rightly administered to God's believing people, and His religion handed down to the latest gen- erations. We consecrate it to the gracious work of the Holy Ghost, that in it, through His influ- ence, the hearts of men may be enlightened, sanc- tified and sealed unto salvation, and Christian unity, love and happiness may be promoted. And to these holy purposes we set apart and consecrate this house, In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. But, inasmuch as the consecration of the tem- ple erected by human hands is vain and ineffec- tual, if not followed by another consecration, even the consecration of those who intend to worship therein, I call upon all of you, who are here present, now to consecrate yourselves anew with all you are and have to the service of our God. To Him let our souls be consecrated with all their powers and affections, that they may be re- newed after the image of Him who hath created them, in righteousness and true holiness! To Him let our bodies be consecrated, that they may be the temples of the Holy Ghost, and all their members and senses be vessels and instru- ments sanctified unto God! To Him let our calling and station in life be consecrated, that we may faithfully employ them in doing good and glorifying our Father who is in heaven ! To Him let our whole life be consecrated, that every day may bear witness that we have not received His grace in vain, but that we are living to His glory. Thus may the consecration of this house be accompanied by the consecration of ourselves. And let all the people say Amen. THE CONSECRATION OF A CHURCH. 267 And now, I beseech you, my Christian breth- ren, to accompany me with your prayers to the God of all grace, that He may grant His blessing to this good work. Let us pray : O Lord, Thou art worthy to receive glory and honour, for Thou hast created all things, and by Thee they are constantly supported and upheld. Great and marvellous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty! just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee and glorify Thy Name \ for Thou only art holy; Thou only art the Lord. All nations shall come and worship before Thee, when the counsel of Thy love hath been made known unto them. The heavens, yea, the heaven of heavens can- not contain Thee : yet adored be Thy name that Thou art inviting us to communion with Thy- self, the everlasting fountain of light, love and joy- Receive our thanks, O Father of mercies, for disposing Thy servants to erect this house for Thine honor and the edification of immortal souls. Be pleased to accept the consecration of it to Thy service, to the religion of Jesus Christ, Thy Son, and to the operation of the Holy Spirit. Look down in mercy upon this sanctu- ary, to protect it from every danger; and upon all who shall assemble here from time to time, to gladden them with Thy blissful presence. Ac- complish in their behalf, O Lord, Thy promise to dwell in the midst of them, that Thou mayest be their God, and that they may be Thy people. May they always enter Thy sanctuary with rev- erence, and never leave it without a blessing. 268 THE CONSECRATION OF A CHURCH. Grant, O Lord, that all who shall be dedicated to Thee in this house by the Holy Sacrament of Baptism, may grow in Thy fear and continue to be Thy true disciples; that all who shall here confirm the vows made at their Baptism may, by the aid of Thy Holy Spirit, fulfill the same, and grow in grace; that all who shall at this altar celebrate the atoning death of Christ, may be established in their faith and obtain remission of their sins; and that Thy Word may at all times be preached here in its purity and power, be received into good and honest hearts, and bring- forth abundantly the fruits of righteousness and godliness. Save now, O Lord, we beseech Thee; send now prosperity. Let Thy work appear unto Thy servants, Thy glory unto their children ; and let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us. And, being built upon the foundation of the prophets and apostles, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner-stone, may we grow unto a holy temple in the Lord; and finally by Thy grace be received into that temple not made with hands in which everlasting songs of praises ascend to Thee. fl The Minister and Congregation shall then say : Our Father who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven ; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive them that trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But de- liver us from evil; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory for ever and ever. Amen. ff Then shall a Hymm be sung, during which the collection shall be taken up. Then shqll follow the Sermon. After the Sermon, a Doxology shall be sung, and the Minister shall pronounce the Benediction. THE OPENING OF SYNOD. 269 xiii.— Ube ©rber for tbe ©penina of Ssnob* 5[ A Hymn of Invocation of the Holy Spirit, or another suitable Hymn, shall be sung, after which the President, standing at the altar, shall say : The Lord be with you. Members of Synod. And with thy Spirit. P. Holy, holy, holy is the Lord our God. M. Heaven and earth are full of Thy glory. P. Let us pray. {All kneeling.) Holy art Thou, O Lord, heavenly Father, w T ho dweliest in the high and holy place ; we are un- holy, and wait for Thy salvation. Grant us now that grace which Thou hast promised, which Thy Son has purchased, which Thy Holy Spirit con- veys, and which all those who earnestly beseech Thee for that grace shall assuredly receive. We humble ourselves before the throne of Thy grace in lowliness of heart, and implore of Thee the gifts of Thy Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth and of wisdom, of power and of might, of love and of concord. . May He remove all self-sufficiency and all arrogance from us, the Ministers of Thy Church and heralds of Thy Gospel, and keep us from being led astray through selfishness and sin- ful desires. May He sanctify us through Thy truth. May he so reign and rule within us that we, being filled with strength and courage, may continually seek after this one thing: to do Thy holy will, to glorify Thy Son and to build up Thy kingdom. May He Himself make interces- sion for us with groanings which cannot be uttered, and direct us in all our deliberations and decisions to Jesus Christ, who ever liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen. ^[ Then shall the President, followed by the members of Synod, say : I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker 270 THE OPENING OF SYNOD. of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, Bom of the Virgin Mary ; Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead and buried ; He descended into hell ; The third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven. And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; The holy Chris- tian Church, the Communion of Saints; The Forgiveness of sins; The Resurrection of the body; And the Life everlasting. Amen. ^[ Then shall the President, followed by the members of Synod, say : Our Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread ; And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive those who trespass against us ; And lead us not into temptation ;' But deliver us from evil; For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. ^ The President shall then say : Having, therefore, dear brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, and having an high-priest over the house of God ; let us draw near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience. And let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering ; for He is faithful that promised. And let us consider one another, to provoke unto love and to good works. I do hereby open this Synod, in accordance with the usage and principles of our Evangelical Lutheran Church, for the glory of God, for the THE CLOSING OF SYXOD. 271 welfare of the Church of Jesus Christ, and foi the edification of all who believe in His name ; In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. The Lord be with us, that we may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. ][ The President and members of Synod shall say : Amen. xiv.— TLbc Closing ot Spnob. •[ A Hymn of praise shall be sung, after which the President, standing at the altar, shall say: Oh give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good : Members of Synod. And His mercy endureth for ever. P. Let us pray. (All kneeling.) Almighty and most merciful God, who art the source of all light and of all truth, we give thanks unto Thee, and laud Thy holy name, that Thou hast graciously granted us the assistance and comfort of Thy good Spirit, to the end that we might be preserved from the blinding influences of error, worldly-mindedness and vanity. And we pray that Thy Spirit may continue so to rule and govern us that, strong in the power of faith, and immovable in steadfastness of heart, we may persevere in Thy work, and may always be found as faithful laborers in Thy vineyard, and as fear- less confessors of Thy truth to the day of the coming of Thy Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 272 THE CLOSING OF SYNOD. ^[ Tlien shall the President say : I do now close this Synod in the name of the Lord. And now, dear brethren, let us stand fast in the love of Christ, that when He comes again in His glory, we may not be put to shame, but rejoice before Him. ^f The President, followed by the members of Synod, shall say : I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord ; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary; Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead and buried ; He descended into hell ; The Third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy Chris- tian Church, the Communion of Saints; The Forgiveness of sins; The Resurrection of the body; And the Life everlasting. Amen. ^ Then shall the President and members of Synod say : Our Father, who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But de- liver us from evil; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. Tf A Hymn shall then be sung, and the President shall vronounce the Bene- diction. BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 273 xv — Burial of tbe H>ea&, *[ At the house, or after the corpse is brought into the church, the Minister shall say : Job xix. 25, 26, 27: — I know that my Re- deemer liveth, and that He shall stand at the latter day upon the earth : and though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God : whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall beheld, and not another. St. John xi. 25, 26: — I am the resurrection and the life : he that belie veth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live ; and whosoever liveth and believeth in me, shall never die. Rev. xiv. 13: — And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth : Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them. ^ Then may be sung or said the 39th Psalm, as here followeth. Or a Hymn, or another Psalm, may be sung. Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is : that I may know how frail I am. Behold, Thou hast made mv davs as an hand- breadth : and mine age is as nothing before Thee ; verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. Surely every man walketh in a vain show; surely they are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not who shall gather them. And now, Lord, what wait I for : my hope is in Thee. Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the reproach of the foolish. 274 BURIAL OF THE DEAD. I was dumb, I opened not my mouth: because Thou didst it. Remove Thy stroke away from me : I am con- sumed by the blow of Thine hand. When Thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, Thou makest his beauty to consume away like as a moth: surely every man is vanity. Hear my prayer, O Lord, and give ear unto my cry: hold not Thy peace at my tears; For I am a stranger with Thee and a sojourner: as all my fathers were. Oh spare me, that I may recover my strength : before I go hence and be no more. fl Then shall the Minister and Congregation, standing , say the Lord's Prayer. The Lord's Prayer. Our Father, who art in heaven; Hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our tres- passes, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But de- liver us from evil; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. fl Then may the Minister read the following lesson, 1 Cor. xv. 20-22, 35-57. Or he may read 1 Thess. iv. 13-18 ; 2 Cor. v. 1-10 ; Rev. 7. 9-17 ; Ps. xxxi, xxxiv, xxxix, xlii, lxxi, lxxiii, xc, cxxxix ; John v. 24-29 ; vi. 37-40 ; xi. 20-27 ; Luke vii. 11-25 ; Matt. ix. 18-25 ; or another suitable lesson from Holy Scripture. Now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrec- tion of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But some man will say, How are the dead raised up] and with what body do they come] BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 275 Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quick- ened, except it die : and that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain : but God giveth it a body as it hath pleased Him, and to every seed his own body. All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, an- other of fishes, and another of birds. There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and an- other glory of the stars; for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resur- rection of the dead. It is sown in corruption ; it is raised in incorruption : it is sown in dishonor ; it is raised in glory : it is sown in weakness ; it is raised in power : it is sowtl a natural body ; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is writ- ten, The first man Adam was made a living soul ; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural ; and afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy : the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God ; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Be- hold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: 276 BURIAL OF THE DEAD. for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incor- ruption, and this mortal shall have put on im- mortality, then shall be brought, to pass the say- ing that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting ? O grave, where is thy victory 1 The sting of death is sin ; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. ^[ Then shall be said the prayer here following ■, or another suitable prayer. 1. Almighty God, who by the death of Thy Son hast abolished sin and death, and by His resur- rection hast brought life and immortality to light, to the end that we might be delivered from the power of the devil, and that by the power of the same resurrection, our mortal bodies should be raised from the dead, and live with Thee in Thy kingdom; mercifully grant that with our whole hearts we may steadfastly believe this, and with all Thy saints may attain unto the blessed resur- rection from the dead ; through the same our Lord Jesus Christ, # who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. 2. Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who hast taught us by Thy holy Apostle not to sorrow, BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 277 even as others which have no hope, for them which sleep in Jesus; mercifully grant unto us that, at the coming of Thy Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, we, with all who have departed in the true faith, may be received into Thine everlasting joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 3. Almighty and everlasting God, the Consolation of the sorrowful, and the Strength of the weak; may the prayers of them that in tribulation and distress cry unto Thee, graciously come before Thee, so that in all their necessities they may mark and receive Thy manifold help and comfort; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 4. O Lord, Almighty, Everlasting and Most Mer- ciful God, Who through death dost call us away from this sinful w 7 orld, to the end that we may not be lost through sin, but may attain unto everlasting life : We beseech Thee, Increase our faith, that at Thy call we may go forth with joy, and follow Thee into Thy Kingdom ; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 5. Merciful and Eternal God, Who didst not spare Thine Only Son, but delivered Him up for us all that He might bear our sins upon the Cross : Grant unto us such steadfast faith, that our hearts may never fear nor doubt ; Through the same, Thy Son Jesus Christ. Amen. ][ A Hymn may then be sung. If If there be a Sermon, it may then follow ; and after the Sermon an- other Hymn may be sung. AT THE GRAVE. ^[ The body having been deposited in the grave, the Minister, standing at the foot of the grave, shall say : 278 BURIAL OF THE DEAD. Man, that is born of woman, is of few days, and full of trouble. He cometh up like a flower, and is cut down ; he fleeth as it were a shadow, and continueth not. In the midst of life we are in death. Of whom may we seek for succor but of Thee, O Lord, who for our sins art justly displeased I Yet, O Lord God most holy, O Lord most mighty, O holy and most merciful Saviour, de- liver us not into the bitter pains of eternal death. Thou knowest, Lord, the secrets of our hearts: shut not Thy merciful ears to our prayers ; but spare us, Lord most holy, O God most mighty, O holy and merciful Saviour, Thou most worthy Judge eternal, suffer us not at our last hour for any pains of death to fall from Thee. Forasmuch as it hath pleased Almighty God, in His wise providence, to take out of this world the soul of our deceased brother, sister, child, we therefore commit the body to the ground ; earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust ; looking confidently for the general resurrection in the last day, and the life of the world to come, through our Lord Jesus Christ, who shall raise His fol- lowers to the participation of His own happiness and glory in heaven. The Benediction. The Lord bless thee and keep thee. The Lord make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. THE CONFESSIONS. Ube apostles' Creefc, I BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. And in Jesns Christ His only Son, our Lord ; Who was con- ceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary ; Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead and buried ; He descended into hell ; The third day He rose again from the dead ; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty ; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost ; The holy Christian Church, The Communion of Saints ; The Forgiveness of sins ; The Resurrection of the body ; And the Life everlasting. Amen. I Ubc IFUcene Greet). BELIEVE in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, And of all things visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only-begotten Son of God, Be- gotten of His Father before all worlds, God of God, Light of Light, Very God of very God, Begotten, not made. Being of one substance with the Father, By whom all things were made ; Who, for us men, and for our salvation, came down from heaven, And was incarnate by the Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary, And was made man; And was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate. He suffered and was buried; And the third day He rose again, according to the Scrip- tures ; And ascended into heaven. And sitteth on the right hand of the Father ; And He shall come again with glory to judge both the quick and the dead ; Whose kingdom shall have no end. And I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Lord and Giver of Life, Who proceedeth from the Father and the Son, Who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified, Who spake by the Prophets. And I believe in one holy Christian and Apostolic Church. I acknowledge one Baptism for the Remission of sins ; x\nd I look for the Resurrection of the dead ; and the Life of the world to come. Amen. Ubc Htbanasian Cree&, WHOSOEVER will be saved, before all things it is necessary that he hold the true Christian faith. Which faith except every one do keep whole and undefiled, with- out doubt he shall perish everlastingly. But this is the true Christian faith : That we worship one God in Trinity, and Trinity in Unity j 281 282 THE CONFESSIONS, Neither confounding the Persons, nor dividing the Substance. For there is one Person of the Father, another of the Son, and another of the Holy Ghost. But the Godhead of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, is all one: the Glory equal, the Majesty co-eternal. Such as the Father is, such is the Son, and such is the Holy Ghost. The Father is uncreate, the Son uncreate, and the Holy Ghost uncreate. The Father is incomprehensible, the Son incomprehensible, and the Holy Ghost incomprehensible. The Father is eternal, the Son eternal, the Holy Ghost eternal. And yet they are not three eternals, but one eternal. As also they are not three incomprehensibles, nor three uncreated : but one uncreated, and one incomprehensible. So likewise the Father is Almighty, the Son Almighty, and the Holy Ghost Almighty. And yet they are not three Almighties, but one Almighty. So the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Ghost is God. And yet they are not three Gods, but one God. So likewise the Father is Lord, the Son is Lord, and the Holy Ghost Lord. And yet not three Lords, but one Lord. For as we, according to Christian truth, must acknowledge every Person by Himself to be God and Lord, so are we forbidden by the Christian religion to say, There are three Gods, or three Lords. The Father is made of none, neither created nor begotten. The Son is of the Father alone; not made, nor created, but be- gotten. The Holy Ghost is of the Father, and of the Son; neither made, nor created, nor begotten, but proceeding. So there is one Father, not three Fathers ; one Son, not three Sons ; one Holy Ghost, not three Holy Ghosts. And in this Trinity none is afore, or after other; none is greater, or less than another; But the whole three Persons are co-eternal together, and co-equal. So that in all things as is aforesaid, the Unity in Trinity, and the Trinity in Unity is to be worshipped. He therefore that will be saved, must thus think of the Trinity. Furthermore, it is necessary to everlasting salvation, to believe rightly also in the incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ. For the right faith is, that we believe and confess that our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is God and Man ; God, of the Substance ol the Father, begotten before the worlds ; and Man, of the substance of his mother, born in the world. Perfect God, and perfect Man of a reasonable soul and human flesh subsisting. Equal to the Father as touching his Godhead, and inferior to the Father as touching his humanity. Who, although he be God and man, yet he is not two, but one Christ; One, not by conversion of the Godhead into flesh, but by taking of the Manhood into God ; One altogether ; not by confusion of Substance but by Unity of Person. THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 283 For as the reasonable soul and flesh is one man, so God and Man is one Christ : Who suffered for our salvation, descended into hell, rose again the third day from the dead. He ascended into heaven, he sitteth at the right hand of the Father, God Almighty : from whence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. At whose coming all men shall rise again with their bodies, and shall give account of their works. And they that have done good shall go into life everlasting, and they that have done evil into everlasting fire. This is the true Christian faith; which, except a man believe faithfully, he cannot be saved. COOTESSIOl^ OF FAITH. PRESENTED TO THE INVINCIBLE EMPEROR CHARLES V. CAESAR AUGUSTUS, AT THE DIET OF AUGSBURG, ANNO DOMINI MDXXX. [This translation is made from the Latin. The words in brackets are added from the German text. The numbers in the margin are designed to facilitate reference.] " I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed." Psalm cxix. 46. Preface to the Emperor Charles V. Most Invincible Emperor, Caesar Augustus, Most Clement Master: Inasmuch as Your Imperial Majesty has summoned a Convention of the Empire at Augsburg, to deliberate in regard to aid against the Turk, the most atrocious, the hereditary, and ancient enemy of the Christian name and religion, in what way, to wit, resistance might be made to his rage and assaults, by protracted and perpetual preparation for war: Because, more- over, of dissensions in the matter of our holy religion and Christ- ian faith, and in order that in this matter of religion the opin- ions and judgments of diverse parties may be heard in each other's presence, may be understood and weighed among one another, in mutual charity, meekness, and gentleness, that those things which in the writings on either side have been handled or understood amiss, being laid aside and corrected, these ihings may be harmonized and brought back to the one simple truth and Christian Concord; so that hereafter the one unfeigned and true religion may be embraced and preserved by us, so that as we are subjects and soldiers of the One Christ, so also, in unity and concord^ we may live in the one Christian Church: and in- asmuch as We, the Electors and Princes, whose names are sub- 284 THE CONFESSIONS. scribed, together with others who are conjoined with us, in common with other Electors and Princes, and States, have been called to the aforenamed Diet, we have, in order to render most humble obedience to the Imperial Mandate, come early to Augs- burg, and with no desire to boast would state that we were among the very first to be present. When therefore Your Imperial Majesty, among other things, 6 has also at Augsburg, at the very beginning of these sessions caused the proposition to be made to the Princes and States of the Empire, that each of the States of the Empire, in virtue of the Imperial Edict, should propose and offer in the German and in the Latin language its opinion and decision; after discussion 7 on Wednesday we replied to Your Imperial Majesty, that on the following Friday we would offer on our part the Articles of our Confession: Wherefore, in order that we may do homage to the will of 8 Your Imperial Majesty, we now offer in the matter of religion the Confession of our preachers and of ourselves, the doctrine of which derived from the Holy Scriptures and pure Word of God, they have to this time set forth in our lands, dukedoms, domains, and cities, and have taught in the churches. If the other Elec- 9 tors, Princes, and States of the Empire, should in the writings, to wit, in Latin and German, according to the aforementioned Imperial proposition, produce their opinions in this matter of religion: we here in the presence of Your Imperial Majesty our 10 most Clement Lord, offer ourselves, prepared, in conjunction with the Princes and our friends already designated, to compare views in a kindly manner in regard to mode and ways which • may be available, so that as far as may honorably be done, we may agree, and the matter between us of both parts being peace- fully discussed, with no hateful contention, by God's help the dissension may be removed, and may be brought back to one true accordant religion (as we are all subjects and soldiers under 11 one Christ, so also we ought to confess one Christ, in accordance with the tenor of the decree of Your Imperial Majesty), and all things should be brought back to the truth of God, which with most fervent prayers we beseech God to grant. But if, as regards the rest of Electors, Princes, and States, 12 those of the other party, this treatment of the matter of religion, in the manner in which Your Imperial Majesty has wisely thought tit it should be conducted and treated, to wit, with such a mutual presentation of writings and calm conference between us, should not go on, nor be attended by any result; yet shall we leave a clear testimony that in no manner do we evade anything 13 which can tend to promote Christian concord (anything which God and a good conscience allow) ; and this Your Imperial Ma- jesty and the other Electors and States of the Empire, and all 14 who are moved by a sincere love of religion and concern for it, all who are willing to give an equitable hearing in this matter, will kindly gather and understand from the Confession of our- selves and of ours. Since, moreover, Your Imperial Majesty has not once only, but 15 repeatedly signified to the Electors, Princes, and other States of the Empire ; and at the Diet of Spires, which was held in the year of our Lord 1526, caused to be recited and publicly pro- THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 285 claimed, in accordance with the form of Your Imperial instruc- tion and commission given and prescribed : That Your Imperial Majesty in this matter of religion for certain reasons, stated in 16 the name of Your Majesty, was not willing to determine, nor was able to conclude touching anything, but that Your Imperial Ma- jesty would diligently endeavor to have the Roman Pontiff, in accordance with his office, to assemble a General Council : as also the same matter was more amply set forth a year ago in the 1*7 last public Convention, which was held at Spires, where through His Highness Ferdinand, King of Bohemia and Hungary, our 18 friend and clement Lord, afterward through the Orator and the Imperial Commissioners, Your Imperial Majesty, among other propositions caused these to be made, that Your Imperial Majesty had known and pondered the resolution to convene a Council, 19 formed by the Representatives of Your Imperial Majesty in the Empire, and by the Imperial President and Counsellors, and by the Legates of other States convened at Ratisbon, and this Your Imperial Majesty also judged that it would be useful to assemble a Council, and because the matters which were to be adjusted at this time between Your Imperial Majesty and the Roman Pontiff were approaching agreement and Christian reconciliation. Your Imperial Majesty did not doubt that, but that the Pope could be induced to summon a General Council : Wherefore Your Imperial 20 Majesty signified that Your Imperial Majesty would endeavor to bring it to pass that the Chief Pontiff, together with Your Im- perial Majesty, would consent at the earliest opportunity to issue letters for the convening of such a General Council. As the event, therefore, has been that in this matter of religion 21 the differences between us and the other party have not been settled in friendship and love, we here present ourselves before Your Imperial Majesty, in all obedience, and in more than mere obedience, ready to compare views, and to defend our cause in such a general, free, and Christian Council, concerning the con- vening of which there has been concordant action and a deter- mination by agreeing votes on the part of the Electors. Princes, and the other States of the Empire, in all the Imperial Diets which have been held in the reign of Your Imperial Majesty. To this 22 Convention of a General Council, as also to Your Imperial Ma- jesty, we have in the due method and legal form, before made our protestation and appeal in this greatest and gravest of mat- ters. To which appeal both to Your Imperial Majesty and a 23 Council we still adhere; nor do we intend, nor would it be possible for us to forsake it by this or any other document, unless the matter between us and the other party should, in accordance with the tenor of the latest Imperial citation, be compared, settled, and brought to Christian concord, in friendship and love ; concerning which appeal we here also make our solemn and pub- 24 lie protest. 286 THE CONFESSIONS. * I. CHIEF ARTICLES OF FAITH. Article I. Of God. The churches with common consent among us, do teach that 1 the decree of the Nicene Synod [Council] concerning the unity of the divine essence and of the three persons is true, and without doubt to be believed: to wit, that there is one divine essence which is called and is God, eternal, without body, indivisible 2 [without part], of infinite power, wisdom, goodness, the Creator and Preserver of all things, visible and invisible; and yet there be three persons of the same essence and power, who also are co- 3 eternal, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. And they use the name of person in that signification in which 4 the ecclesiastical writers [the fathers] have used it in this cause, to signify, not a part or quality in another, but that which prop- erly subsisteth. They condemn all heresies which have sprung up against this 5 Article, as the Manichees, who set down two principles, good and evil ; in the same manner the Valentinians, Arians, Eunomians, Mahometans, and all such like. They condemn also the Samosatenes, old and new ; who when 6 they earnestly contend that there is but one person, do craftily and wickedly trifle after the manner of Rhetoricians, about the Word and Holy Ghost, that they are not distinct persons, but that the Word signifieth a vocal word, and the Spirit a motion created in things. Article II. Of Original Sin. Also they teach that after Adam's fall, all men begotten after 1 the common course of nature, are born with sin ; that is, without the fear of God, without trust in him, and with fleshly appetite ; 2 and that this disease, or original fault is truly sin, condemning 3 and bringing eternal death now also upon all that are not born again by baptism and the Holy Spirit. They condemn the Pelagians, and others, who deny this orig- 4 inal fault to be sin indeed; and who, so as to lessen the glory of the merits and benefits of Christ, argue that a man may, by the strength of his own reason, be justified before God. Article III. Of the Son of God, and of the llohj Spirit. Also they teach that the Word, that is. the Son of God, took 1 unto him man's nature, in the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary, so that there are two natures, the Divine and the human, insep- 2 arably joined together in unity of person ; one Christ, true God and true man: who was born of the Virgin Mary, truly suffered was crucified, dead, and buried, that he mipht reconcile the THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 287 Father unto us, and might be a sacrifice, not only for original 3 guilt, but also for all actual sins of men. The same also descended into hell, and truly rose again the 4 third day. Afterward he ascended into the heavens, that he might sit at the right hand of the Father; and reign forever, and have dominion over all creatures ; might sanctify those that be- lieve in him, by sending the Holy Spirit into their hearts, who shall rule [purify, strengthen], comfort, and quicken them, and 5 shall defend them against the devil, and the power of sin. The same Christ shall openly come again, to judge the quick 6 and the dead, according as the Apostles' Creed declareth these and other things. Article IV. Of Justification. Also they teach, that men cannot be justified [obtain forgive- 1 ness of sins and righteousness] before God by their own powers, merits, or works: but are justified freely [of grace] for Christ's 2 sake through faith, when they believe that they are received into favor, and their sins forgiven for Christ's sake, who by his death hath satisfied for our sins. This faith doth God impute for right- eousness before Him, Rom. iii. and iv. Article V. Of the Ministry of the Church. For the obtaining of this faith, the ministry of teaching the Gos- I pel, and administering the Sacraments was instituted [by God]. For by the Word and Sacraments, as by instruments, the Holy 2 Spirit is given ; who worketh faith, where and when it pleaseth God, in those that hear the Gospel, to wit, that God, not for our merit's sake, but for Christ's sake, doth justify those who believe 3 that they for Christ's sake are received into favor. They condemn the Anabaptists and others, who imagine that 4 the Holy Spirit is given to men without the outward word, through their own preparations and works. Article VI. Of New Obedience. Also they teach that this faith should bring forth good fruits, 1 and that men ought to do the good works commanded of God, because it is God's will, and not on any confidence of meriting justification before God by their works. For remission of sins aud justification is apprehended by faith, 2 as also the voice of Christ witnesseth : " When ye have done all these things, say, We are unprofitable servants." The same, also, do the ancient writers of the Church teach ; 3 for Ambrose saith; fc 'This is ordained of God, that he that believ- eth in Christ shall be saved, without works, by faith alone, freely receiving remission of sins." Article VII. Of the Church. Also they teach, that one holy Church is to continue forever. 1 But the Church is the congregation of saints [the assembly of all 288 THE CONFESSIONS. believers], in which the Gospel is rightly taught [purely- preached], and the Sacraments are rightly administered [accord- ing to the Gospel]. And unto the true unity of the Church, it is sufficient to agree 2 concerning the doctrine of the Gospel and the administration of the Sacraments. Nor is it necessary that human traditions, rites, 3 or ceremonies instituted by men, should be alike everywhere ; as St. Paul saith : " There is one faith, one baptism, one God and 4 Father of all." Article VIII. What the Church is. Though the Church be properly the congregation of saints and 1 true believers, yet seeing that in this life many hypocrites and evil persons are mingled with it, it is lawful to use the Sacra- ments administered by evil men ; according to the voice of Christ: "The Scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat," and the words following. And the Sacraments and the Word are 2 effectual, by reason of the institution and commandment of Christ, though they be delivered by evil men. They condemn the Donatists and such like, who denied that it 3 is lawful to use the ministry of evil men in the Church, and held that the ministry of evil men is useless and without effect. Article IX. Of Baptism. Of Baptism they teach, that it is necessary to salvation, and 1 that by Baptism the grace of God is offered, and that children 2 are to be baptized, who by Baptism being offered to God are re- ceived into God's favor. They condemn the Anabaptists who allow not the Baptism of 3 children, and affirm that children are saved without Baptism. Article X. Of the Lord's Supper. Of the Supper of the Lord they teach that the [true] body and 1 blood of Christ are truly present [under the form of bread and wine], and are [there] communicated to those that eat in the 2 Lord's Supper [and received]. 3 And they disapprove of those that teach otherwise [wherefore 4 also the opposite doctrine is rejected]. Article XL Of Confession. Concerning confession they teach that private absolution be 1 retained in the churches, though enumeration of all offences be not necessary in confession. For it is impossible ; according to 2 the Psalm: "Who can understand his errors?" Article XII. Of Repentance. Touching repentance, they teach that such as have fallen after 1 baptism may find remission of sins, at what time they are con- THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 289 verted [when they come to repentance], and that the Church 2 should give absolution unto such as return to repentance. Now repentance consisteth properly of these two parts : One is 3 contrition, or terrors stricken into the conscience through the 4 acknowledgment of sin: the other is faith, which is conceived by 5 the Gospel, or absolution, and doth believe that for Christ's sake sins be forgiven, and comforteth the conscience, and freeth it from terrors. Then should follow good works, which are fruits G of repentance. They condemn the Anabaptists, who deny that men once justi- 7 fied can lose the Spirit of God, and do contend that some men 8 may attain to such a perfection in this life, that they cannot sin. [Here are rejected those who teach that those who have once been holy cannot fall again.] The Xovatians are also con- 9 demned, who would not absolve such as had fallen after bap- tism, though they returned to repentance. They also that do not 10 teach that remission of sins is obtained by faith, and who com- mand us to merit grace by satisfactions are rejected. Article XIII. Of the Use of Sacraments. Concerning the use of the Sacraments, they teach that they 1 were ordained, not only to be marks of profession amongst men, but rather that they should be signs and testimonies of the will of God towards us, set forth unto us, to stir up and confirm faith in such as use them. Therefore men must use Sacraments so, as to 2 join faith with them, which believes the promises that are offered and declared unto us by the Sacraments. Wherefore they condemn those that teach that the Sacraments 3 do justify by the work done, and do not teach that faith which believes the remission of sins is requisite in the use of Sacra- ments. Article XIV. Of Ecclesiastical Orders. Concerning Ecclesiastical Orders [Church Government}, they 1 teach, that no man should publicly in the Church teach or admin- ister the Sacraments, except he be rightly called [without a reg- ular call]. Article XV. Of Ecclesiastical Rites. Concerning Ecclesiastical rites, they teach, that those rites are 1 to be observed, which may be observed without sin, and are profitable for tranquillity and good order in the Church ; such as are set holidays, feasts, and such like. Yet concerning such 2 things men are to be admonished, that consciences are not to be burdened as if such service were necessary to salvation. They are also to be admonished that human traditions, insti- 3 tuted to propitiate God. to merit grace and make satisfaction for sins, are opposed to the Gospel and the doctrine of faith. Where- fore vows and traditions concerning food and days, and such 4 like, instituted to merit grace and make satisfaction for sins, are useless and contrary to the Gospel. 290 THE CONFESSIONS. Article XVI. Of Civil Affairs. Concerning civil affairs, they teach that such civil ordinances I as are lawful, are good works of God ; that Christians may law- 2 fully bear civil office, sit in judgments, determine matters by the imperial laws, and other laws in present force, appoint just pun- ishments, engage in just war, act as soldiers, make legal bar- gains and contracts, hold property, take an oath when the mag- istrates require it, marry a wife, or be given in marriage. They 3 condemn the Anabaptists, who forbid Christians these civil of- fices. They condemn also those that place the perfection of the 4 Gospel, not in the fear of God, and in faith, but in forsaking civil offices, inasmuch as the Gospel teacheth an everlasting righteous- ness of the heart. In the meantime, it doth not disallow order 5 and government of commonwealths or families, but requireth es- pecially the preservation and maintenance thereof, as of God's own ordinances, and that in such ordinances we should exercise love. Christians, therefore, must necessarily obey their magis- 6 trates and laws, save only then, when they command any sin ; for then they must rather obey God than men. Acts v. 29. Article XVII. Of Christ' 's Return to Judgment. Also they teach that, in the consummation of the world [at 1 the last day], Christ shall appear to judge, and shall raise up all the dead, and shall give unto the godly and elect, eternal life, and everlasting joys; but ungodly men and the devils shall he condemn unto endless torments. They condemn the Anabaptists, who think that to condemned 2 men and the devils shall be an end of torments. They condemn others also, who now scatter Jewish opinions, that, before the 3 resurrection of the dead, the godly shall occupy the kingdom of the world, the wicked being everywhere suppressed [the saints alone, the pious, shall have a worldly kingdom, and shall exter- minate all the godless]. Article XVIII. Of Free Will. Concerning free will, they teach, that man's will hath some I liberty to work a civil righteousness, and to choose such things as reason can reach unto: but that it hath no power to work the 2 righteousness of God, or a spiritual righteousness, without the Spirit of God ; because that the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: 1 Cor. ii. 14. But this is wrought in 3 the heart when men do receive the Spirit of God through the word. These things are in as many words affirmed by St. Augustine. 4 H;/i>ognosticon, lib. iii. : "We confess, that there is in all men a free will, which hath indeed the judgment of reason ; not that it is thereby fitted, without God, either to begin or to perforin any- thing in matters pertaining to God, but only in works belonging to this present life, whether they be good or evil. By good 5 works, I mean those which are of the goodness of nature ; as to THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 291 will to labor in the field, to desire meat or drink, to desire 10 have a friend, to desire apparel, to desire to build a house, to marry a wife, to nourish cattle, to learn the art of divers good things, to desire any good thing pertaining to this present life : all which are not without God's government, yea, they are, and 6 had their beginning from God and by God. Among evil things, I account such as these : to will to worship an image ; to will 7 manslaughter, and such like." They condemn the Pelagians, and others, who teach that by 8 the powers of nature alone, without the Spirit of God, we are able to love God above all things ; also to perform the command- ments of God, as touching the substance of our actions. For 9 although nature be able in some sort to do the external works (for it is able to withhold the hands from theft and murder), yet it cannot work the inward motions, such as the fear of God, trust in God, chastity, patience, and such like. Article XIX. Of the Cause of Sin. Touching the cause of sin, they teach, that although God doth create and preserve nature, yet the cause of sin is the will of the wicked ; to wit, of the devil, and ungodly men ; which will, God not aiding, turneth itself from God, as Christ saith, {; When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own." John viii. 44. Article XX. Of Good Works. Ours are falsely accused of forbidding good works. For their 1 writings extant upon the Ten Commandments, and others of the 2 like argument, do bear witness, that they have to good purpose taught concerning every kind of life, and its duties ; what kinds of life, and what works in every calling, do please God. Of 3 which things, preachers in former times taught little or nothing : only they urged certain childish and needless works; as. keeping of holidays, set fasts, fraternities, pilgrimages, worshipping of saints, the use of rosaries, monkery, and such like things. Whereof our adversaries havinsr had warning, thev do now un- 4 learn them, and do not preach concerning these unprofitable works, as they were wont. Besides, they begin now to make 5 mention of faith, concerning which there was formerly a deep silence. They teach that we are not justified by works alone, 6 but they conjoin faith and works, and say we are justified by faith and works. Which doctrine is more tolerable than the 7 former one, and can afford more consolation than their old doc- trine. Whereas,- therefore, the doctrine of faith, which should be the 8 chief one in the Church, hath been so long unknown, as all men must needs grant, that there was the deepest silence about the righteousness of faith in their sermons, and that the doctrine of works was usual in the Churches, for this cause our Divines did thus admonish the Churches : First, that our works cannot reconcile God. or deserve remis- 9 sion of sins, grace, and justification at his hands, but that these 292 THE CONFESSIONS. we obtain by faith only, when we believe that we are received into favor for Christ's sake ; who alone is appointed the Mediator and Propitiatory, by whom the Father is reconciled. He, there- 10 fore, that trusteth by his works to merit grace, doth despise the merit and grace of Christ, and seeketh by his own power, without Christ, to come unto the Father : whereas Christ hath said ex- pressly of himself, " I am the way, the truth, and the life." John xiv. 6. This doctrine of faith is handled by Paul almost everywhere: 11 « By grace ye are saved through faith ; and that not of your- selves: it is the gift of God; not of works:" Ephes. ii. 8, 9. And lest any here should cavil, that we bring in a new-found 12 interpretation, this whole cause is sustained by testimonies of the Fathers. Augustine doth in many volumes defend grace, 13 and the righteousness of faith against the merit of works. The like doth Ambrose teach in his book, De Vocatione Gentium, and 14 elsewhere; for thus he saith of the calling of the Gentiles: u The redemption made by the blood of Christ would be of small account, and the prerogative of man's works would not give place to the mercy of God, if the justification which is by grace were due to merits going before ; so as* it should not be the liber- ality of the giver, but the wages or hire of the laborer." This doctrine though it be contemned of the unskilful, yet 15 godly and fearful consciences find by experience that it bringeth very great comfort: because that consciences cannot be quieted by any works, but by faith alone, when they believe assuredly, that they have a God who is propitiated for Christ's sake; as 16 Paul teacheth, " Being justified by faith, we have peace with 17 God:" Rom. v. 1. This doctrine doth wholly belong to the con- flict of a troubled conscience; and cannot be understood, but where the conscience hath felt that conflict. Wherefore, all 18 such as have had no experience thereof, and all that are profane men, who dream that Christian righteousness is naught else but a civil and philosophical righteousness, are poor judges of this matter. Formerly, men's consciences were vexed with the doctrine of 10 works; they did not hear any comfort out of the Gospel. Whereupon conscience drove some into the desert, into Monas- 20 teries, hoping there to merit grace by a monastical life. Others devised other works, whereby to merit grace, and to satisfy for 21 sin. There was very great need therefore to teach and renew 22 this doctrine of faith in Christ; to the end that fearful con- sciences might not want comfort, but might know that grace, and forgiveness of sins, and justification, were received by faith in Christ. Another thing, which we teach men, is, that in this place the 23 name of Faith doth not only signify a knowledge of the history, which may be in the wicked and in the Devil, but that it signi- fieth a faith which believeth, not only the history, but also the effect of the history; to wit, the article of remission of sins; namely, that by Christ we have grace, righteousness, and remis- sion of sins. Now, he that knoweth that he hath the Father 24 merciful to him through Christ, this man knoweth God truly: he knoweth that God hath a care of him; he loveth God, and calleth upon him ; in a word, he is not without God a as the Gentiles are. THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 293 For the devils and the wicked can never believe this article of 25 the remission of siDs: and therefore they hate God as their en- emy; they call not upon him. they look for no good thing at his hands. After this manner doth Augustine admonish the reader 26 touching the name of Faith, and teacheth that this word Faith is taken in Scriptures, not for such a knowledge as is in the wicked, but for a trust, which doth comfort and lift up disquieted minds. Moreover, ours teach, that it is necessary to do good works ; 27 not that we may trust that we deserve grace by them, but because it is the will of God that we should do them. By faith alone is appre- hended remission of sins and grace. And because the Holy Spirit 28 is received by faith, our hearts are now renewed, and so put on 29 new affections, so that they are able to bring forth good works. For thus saith Ambrose. " Faith is the begetter of a good will, 30 and of good actions." For man's powers, without the Holy Spirit, are full of wicked affections, and are weaker than that 31 they can do any good deed before God. Besides, they are in the 32 Devil's power, who driveth men forward into divers sins, into profane opinions, and into heinous crimes : as was to be seen in 33 the philosophers, who. assaying to live an honest life, could not attain unto it. but were defiled with many heinous crimes. Such is the weakness of man. when he is without faith and the Holy 34 Spirit, and hath no other guide but the natural powers of man. Hereby every man may see that this doctrine is not to be ac- 35 cused, as forbidding good works ; but rather is much to be com- mended, because it showeth after what sort we must do good works. For without faith, the nature of man can by no means 36 perform the works of the First or Second Table. Without faith, it cannot call upon God, hope in God, bear the cross: but seek- 37 eth help from man, and trusteth in man's help. So it cometh to pass, that all lusts and human counsels bear sway in the heart so 38 long as faith and trust in God is absent. Wherefore also Christ saith. i: Without me ye can do nothing,''' 39 John xv. 5, and the Church singeth, "Without thy power is 40 naught in man, naught that is innocent." Article XXI. Of the Worship of Saints. Touching the worship of saints, they teach, that the memory of saints may be set before us. that we may follow their faith and good works according to our calling: as the Emperor may follow David's example in making war to drive away the Turks from his country : for each of them is a king. But the Scripture teacheth not to invocate saints, or to ask help of saints, because it propoundeth unto us one Christ the Mediator, Propitiatory, High Priest, and Intercessor. This Christ is to be invocated, and he hath promised that he will hear our prayers, and liketh this worship especially, to wit, that he be invocated in all afflictions. " If any man sin, we have an advocate with God, Jesus Christ the righteous:" 1 John ii. 1. This is about the sum of doctrine among us, in which can be seen that there is nothing which is discrepant with the Scriptures, 294 THE CONFESSIONS. or with the Church Catholic, or even with the Roman Church, so far as that Church is known from writers [the writings of the Fathers]. This being the case, they judge us harshly who insist that we shall be regarded as heretics. But the dissension is con- cerning certain [traditions and] abuses, which without any cer- 2 tain authority have crept into the Churches, in which things even if there were some difference, yet would it be a becoming lenity on the part of the bishops, that on account of the Confes- sion which we have now presented, they should bear with us, since not even the Canons are so severe, as to demand the same rites everywhere, nor were the rites of all Churches at any time the same. Although among us in large part the ancient rites 3 are diligently observed. For it is a calumnious falsehood, that 4 all the ceremonies, all the things instituted of old are abolished in our Churches. But the public complaint was, that certain 5 abuses were connected with the rites in common use. These, be- cause they could not with good conscience be approved, have to some extent been corrected II. ARTICLES IN WHICH ARE RECOUNTED THE ABUSES WHICH HAVE BEEN CORRECTED. Inasmuch as the Churches among us dissent in no article of 1 faith from the Church Catholic [the Universal Christian Church], and only omit a few of certain abuses, which are novel [in part have crept in with time, in part have been introduced by violence], and contrary to the purport of the Canons have been re- ceived by the fault of the times, we beg that Your Imperial Majesty would clemently hear both what ought to be changed, and what are the reasons that the people ought not to be forced against their conciences to observe those abuses. Nor should Your Imperial Majesty have faith in those who, that they may 2 inflame the hatred of men against us, scatter amazing slanders among the people. In this way the minds of good men being 3 angered at the beginning, they gave occasion to this dissension, and by the same art they now endeavor to increase the discords. For beyond doubt Your Imperial Majesty will find that the form 4 both of doctrines and of ceremonies among us, is far more toler- able than that which these wicked and malicious men describe. The truth, moreover, cannot be gathered from common rumors 5 and the reproaches of enemies. But it is easy to judge this, that 6 nothing is more profitable to preserve the dignity of ceremonies and to nurture reverence and piety among the people, than that the ceremonies should be rightly performed in the Churches. Article XXII. (I.) Of both Kinds [in the Lord's Supper], Both kinds of the Sacrament in the Lord's Supper are given to 1 the laity, because that this custom hath the commandment of the Lord, " Drink ye all, of this:" Matt. xxvi. 27 ; where Christ doth THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION". 295 manifestly command concerning the cup, that all should drink. And that no man might cavil, that this doth only pertain to the 2 priests, the example of Paul to the Corinthians witnesseth, that the whole Church did use both kinds in common: 1 Cor. xi. 28. And this custom remained a long time in the Church; neither is 3 it certain, when, or by what authority, it was changed. Cyprian in certain places doth witness, that the blood was given to the 4 people : the same thing doth Jerome testify, saying, 4k The priests 5 do minister the Eucharist, and communicate the blood of Christ to the people." Nay, Pope Gelasius commandeth, that the Sacra- 6 ment be not divided: Dist. 2, De Consecr. Cap. Comperimus. Only 7 a custom, not thus ancient, doth otherwise. But it is manifest 8 that a custom, brought in contrary to the commandments of 9 God, is not to be approved, as the Canons do witness: Dist. 8, Cap. Veritate; with the words which follow. Now this custom has been received, not only against the Scripture, but also against 10 the ancient Canons, and the example of the Church. Therefore 11 if any would rather use both kinds in the Sacrament, they are not to be compelled to do otherwise with the offence of their conscience. And because that the division of the Sacrament 12 doth not agree with the institution of Christ, among us it is the custom to omit that procession which hitherto hath been in use. Article XXIII. (II.) Of the Marriage of Priests. There was a common complaint of the examples of such priests 1 as were not continent. For which cause also Pope Pius is re- 2 ported to have said, u that there were certain causes for which marriage was forbidden to priests, but there were many weightier causes why it should be permitted again :" for so Platina writeth. Whereas therefore the priests among us seek to avoid these public 3 offences, they have married wives, and have taught that it is law- ful for them to enter into marriage. First, because that Paul saith, " To avoid fornication, let every man have his wife :" again, 4 " It is better to marry than to burn:" 1 Cor. vii. 2, 9. Secondly, Christ saith, "All men cannot receive this word:" Matt. xix. 11 ; 5 where he showeth that all men are not fit for a single life, be- cause that God created mankind, male and female : Gen. i. 28. Nor is it in man's power, without a special gift and work of God, to alter 6 His creation. Therefore such as are not meet for a single life, 7 ought to contract marriage. For no law of man, no vow, can 8 take away the commandment of God, and his ordinance. By these reasons the priests do prove that they may lawfully take 9 wives. And it is well known, that in the ancient Churches 10 priests were married. For Paul saith, "that- a bishop must be chosen which is a husband:" 1 Tim. iii. 2. And in Germany, 11 the priests were not by violence compelled to live a single life until 1 2 about four hundred years ago ; who then were so wholly bent against the matter, that the Archbishop of Mentz, being about to publish the Pope of Rome's decree to that effect, was almost murdered in a tumult by the priests in their anger. And the matter was handled so rudely, that not only were marriages for- 13 bidden for the time to come, but also such as were then con- tracted, were broken asunder, contrary to all laws divine and 296 THE CONFESSIONS. human, contrary to the Canons themselves, that were before inade not only by Popes, but also by most famous Councils. And seeing that, as the world decayeth, man's nature by little and lit- 14 tie waxeth weaker, it is well to look to it, that no more vices do overspread Germany. Furthermore, God ordained marriage to be 15 a remedy for man's infirmity. The Canons themselves do say, 16 that the old rigor is now and then in latter times to be released because of the weakness of men. Which it were to be wished might be done in this matter also. And if marriage be forbidden 17 any longer, the Churches may at length want pastors. Seeing then that there is a plain commandment of God; seeing 18 the use of the Church is well known ; seeing that impure single life bringeth forth very many offences, adulteries, and other enor- mities worthy to be punished by the godly magistrate, it is a marvel that greater cruelty should be showed in no other thing, than against the marriage of priests. God hath commanded to honor marriage: the laws in all well-ordered commonwealths, 19 even among the heathen, have adorned marriages with very 20 great honors. But now men are cruelly put to death, yea, and priests also, contrary to the mind of the Canons, for no other 21 cause, but marriage. Paul calleth that " a doctrine of devils," which forbiddeth marriage : 1 Tim. iv. 1 ; which may now very 22 well be seen, since the forbidding of marriage is maintained by 23 such punishments. But as no law of man can take away the law 24 of God, no more can any vow whatsoever. Therefore Cyprian 25 giveth counsel, that those women should marry, which do not keep their vow of chastity. His words are these, in the 1st Book, the 2d Epistle : " If they will not or are not able to endure, it is far better they should marry, than that they should fall into the lire by their importunate desires. In any wise let them give no offence to their brethren and sisters." Yea, even the Canons show some kind of justice towards such as before their ripe years did 26 vow chastity ; as hitherto the use hath for the most part been. Article XXIV. ( III.) Of the Mass. Our Churches are wrongfully accused to have abolished the 1 Mass. For the Mass is retained still among us, and celebrated with great reverence ; yea, and almost all the ceremonies that are 2 in use, saving that with the things sung in Latin, we mingle certain things sung in German at various parts of the service, which be added for the people's instruction. For therefore alone we have need of ceremonies, that they may teach the unlearned. 3 This is not only commanded by St. Paul, to use a tongue that the 4 people understand, 1 Cor. xiv. 9, \ut man's law hath also ap- pointed it. We accustom the people to receive the Sacrament to- 5 gether, if so be any be found fit thereunto; and that is a thing that doth increase the reverence and due estimation of the public ceremonies, For none are admitted, except they be first proved. 6 Besides, we put men in mind of the worthiness and use of the 7 Sacrament, how great comfort it bringeth to fearful consciences; that they may learn to believe God, and to look for and crave all good things at his hands. This worship doth please God: such 8 an use of the Sacrament doth nourish piety towards God. There- THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 297 fore it seemeth not that Masses be more religiously celebrated 9 among our adversaries, than with us. But it is evident, that of long time this hath been the public 10 and most grievous complaint of all good men, that Masses are basely profaned, being used for gain. And it is not unknown, 11 how far this abuse hath spread itself in all Churches ; of what manner of men Masses are used, only for a reward, or for wages ; and how many do use them against the prohibition of the Canons. But Paul doth grievously threaten those who treat the Lord's 12 Supper unworthily, saying, " He that eateth this bread or drink- eth this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord:" 1 Cor. xi. 27. Therefore, when the priests among us were admonished of this sin, private Masses 13 were laid aside among us, seeing that for the most part there were no private Masses but only for lucre's sake. Neither were the 14 bishops ignorant of these abuses, and if they had amended them in time, there had now been less of dissensions. Heretofore, by their dissembling, they suffered much corruption to creep into the 15 Church : now they begin, though it be late, to complain of the 16 calamities of the Church ; seeing that this tumult was raised up by no other mean, than by those abuses, which were so evident, that they could no longer be tolerated. There were many dis- sensions, concerning the Mass, concerning the Sacrament. And 17 perhaps the world is punished for so long a profaning of Masses, 18 which they, who both could and ought to have amended it, have so many years tolerated in the Churches. For in the Ten Com- 19 mandments it is written, " The Lord will not hold him guiltless, that taketh his name in vain :" Exod. xx. 7. And from the 20 beginning of the world, there neither was nor is any divine thing, which seems so to have been employed for gain, as the Mass. There was added an opinion, which increased private Masses 21 infinitely ; to wit, that Christ by his passion did satisfy for origi- nal sin, and appointed the Mass, wherein an oblation should be made for daily sins, both mortal and venial. Hereupon a com- mon opinion was received, that the Mass is a work, that taketh 22 away the sins of the quick and the dead, and that for the doing of the work. Here men began to dispute, whether one Mass said 23 for many were of as great force, as particular Masses said for par- ticular men. This disputation hath brought forth that infinite multitude of Masses. Our preachers have admonished, concerning 24 these opinions, that they do depart from the Holy Scriptures, and diminish the glory of the passion of Christ. For the passion of 25 Christ was an oblation and satisfaction, not only for original sin, but also for all other sins ; as it is written in the Epistle to the Hebrews, x. 10 : "We are sanctified through the offering of the body 26 of Jesus Christ once for all:" also, " By one offering he hath per- 27 fected forever them that are sanctified :" Heb. x. 14. The Scripture also teacheth that we are justified before God through faith in 28 Christ, when we believe that our sins are forgiven for Christ's sake. Now, if the Mass do take away the sins of the quick and the dead, 29 even for the work's sake that is done, then justification cometh by the work of Masses, and not by faith ; which the Scripture cannot endure. But Christ commandeth us " to do it in remembrance of himself:'' Luke xxii. 19, therefore the Mass has been instituted, 30 that faith, in them which use the Sacrament, may remember what 298 THE CONFESSIONS. benefits it receiveth by Christ, and that it may raise and comfort the fearful conscience. For this is to remember Christ, to wit, 31 to remember his benefits, and to feel and perceive that they be in- deed imparted unto us. Nor is it sufficient to call to mind the 32 history ; because that the Jews also, and the wicked, can do. Therefore the Mass must be used to this end, that there the Sac- 33 rament may be reached unto them that have need of comfort ; as Ambrose saith, "Because I do always sin, therefore I ought al- ways to receive the medicine." And seeing that the Mass is such a communion of the Sacrament, we do observe one common 34 Mass every holyday, and on other days, if any will use the Sacra- ment, at which times it is offered to them which desire it. Neither is this custom newly brought into the Church. For the 35 ancients, before Gregory's time, make no mention of any private Mass: of the common Mass they speak much. Chrysostom saith, " that the priest doth daily stand at the altar, and call some unto 36 the Communion, and put back others." And by the ancient Ca- nons it is evident that some one did celebrate the Mass, of whom 37 the other elders and deacons did receive the body of the Lord. For so the words of the Nicene Canon do sound : li Let the dea- 38 cons in- their order, after the elders, receive the holy Communion of a bishop, or of an elder." And Paul, concerning the Com- munion, commandeth, " that one tarry for another," 1 Cor. xi. 33, 39 that so there may be a common participation. Seeing therefore 40 that the Mass amongst us hath the example of the Church, out of the Scripture, and the Fathers, we trust that it cannot be disap- proved; especially since our public ceremonies are kept, the most part, like unto the usual ceremonies : only the number of Masses is not alike, the which, by reason of very great and manifest abuses, it were certainly far better to be moderated. For in times past also, in the Churches whereunto was greatest resort, it was 41 not the use to have Mass said every day ; as the Tripartite History, lib. 9, cap. 38, doth witness. "Again," saith it, "in Alexandria, every fourth and sixth day of the week, the Scriptures are read, and the doctors do interpret them : and all other things are done also, except only the celebration of the Eucharist." Article XXV. (IV.) Of Confession. Confession is not abolished in our Churches. For it is not 1 usual to communicate the body of our Lord, except to those who have been previously examined and absolved. And the people are taught most carefully concerning the faith required to abso- 2 lution, about which before these times there has been a deep si- lence. Men are taught, that they should highly regard Abso- 3 lution, inasmuch as it is God's voice, and pronounced by God's command. The power of the keys is honored, and mention is made how 4 great consolation it brings to terrified consciences, and that God requires faith, that we believe that absolution as a voice sounding from heaven, and that this faith in Christ truly obtains and re- ceives remission of sins. Aforetime satisfactions were immoderately extolled: of faith 5 and the merit of Christ, and justification by faith no mention was THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 299 made. Wherefore on this point our Churches are by no means to be blamed. For this even our adversaries are compelled to con- 6 cede in regard to us, that the doctrine of repentance is most dili- gently treated and laid open by us. But of Confession our Churches teach, that the enumeration of 7 sins is not necessary, nor are consciences to be burdened with the care of enumerating all sins, inasmuch as it is impossible to recount all sins, as the Psalm (xix. 31) testifies: ''Who can understand his errors?" So also Jeremiah (xvii. 9): "The 8 heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. Who can know it?'' But if no sins were remitted except what 9 were recounted, consciences could never find peace, because very many sins they can neither see nor remember. The ancient writers also testify that the enumeration is not 10 necessary. For in the Decrees Chrysostom is cited, who speaks 11 thus : u I do not say to thee, that thou shouldst discover thyself in public, or accuse thyself before others, but I would have thee obey the prophet when he says: Reveal thy way unto the Lord." Therefore with prayer confess thy sins before God the true Judge. Pronounce thine errors, not with the tongue, but with the memory of thy conscience." And the Gloss (Of Repentance, Dist. V., chap. Consideret), admits that confession is ot human right only [is not 12 commanded in Scripture, but has been instituted by the Church], Nevertheless, on account of the very great benefit of abso- 13 lution, as well as for other uses to the conscience, Confession is retained among us. Article XXVI. (V.) Of the Distinction of Meats, and of Traditions. It hath been a general opinion, not of the people alone, but 1 also of such as are teachers in the Churches, that the differences of meats, and such like human traditions, are works available to merit grace, and are satisfactions for sins. And that the world 2 thus thought is apparent by this : that daily new ceremonies, new orders, new holidays, new fasts, were appointed : and the teachers in the Churches did exact these works as a service necessary to deserve grace; and they did greatly terrify men's consciences, if aught were omitted. Of this persuasion concerning traditions, many disadvantages 3 have followed in the Church. For first the doctrine of grace is 4 obscured by it, and also the righteousness of faith, which is the principal part of the Gospel, and which it behoveth most of all to stand forth and to have the preeminence in the Church, that the merit of Christ may be well known, and faith, which believeth that sins are remitted for Christ's sake, may be exalted far above works. For which cause also Paul lays much stress on this point: 5 he removeth the law, and human traditions, that lie may show that the righteousness of Christ is a far other thing than such works as these be, namely, a faith, which believeth that sins are freely remitted for Christ's sake. But this doctrine of Paul is al- 6 most wholly smothered by traditions, which have bred an opinion, that, by making difference in meats, and such like services, a man should merit grace and justification. In their doctrine of repent- ance there was no mention of faith ; only these works of satis- 7 300 THE CONFESSIONS. faction were spoken of: repentance seemed to consist wholly in these. Secondly, these traditions obscured the commandments of God, 8 because traditions were preferred far above the commandments of God. All Christianity was thought to be an observance of certain holidays, rites, fasts, and attire. These observances were in pos- 9 session of a most goodly title, namely, that they were the spiritual life, and the perfect life. In the meantime, God's command- 10 ments, touching every man's calling, were of small estimation. That the father brought up his children, that the mother nurtured them, that the prince governed the commonwealth : these were reputed worldly affairs, and imperfect, and far inferior to those glittering observances. And this error did greatly torment pious consciences, which were grieved that they were held by an im- 11 perfect kind of life, in marriage, in magistracy, or in other civil functions. They had the monks, and such like, in admiration, and falsely imagined that the observances of these men were more grateful to God than their own. Thirdly, traditions brought great danger to men's consciences, 12 because it was impossible to keep all traditions, and yet men thought the observance of them to be necessary services. Ger- son writeth, " that many fell into despair, and some murdered 13 themselves, because they perceived that they could not keep the traditions :" and all this while, they never heard the comfort of the righteousness of faith, or of grace. We see the Summists and divines gather together the traditions, and seek qualifications 14 of them, to unburden men's consciences : and yet all will not serve, but meantime they bring more snares upon the conscience. The schools and pulpits have been so busied in gathering together 15 the traditions, that they had not leisure to touch the Scripture, and to seek out a more profitable doctrine, of faith, of the cross, of hope, of the dignity of civil affairs, of the comfort of conscience in arduous trials. Wherefore Gerson, and some other divines, 16 have made grievous complaints, that they were hindered by these strifes about traditions, so that they could not be occupied in some better kind of doctrine. And Augustine forbiddeth that 17 men's consciences should be burdened with observances of this kind, and doth very prudently warn Januarius to know, that they are to be observed as things indifferent; for he so speaketh. Wherefore our ministers must not be thought to have touched 18 this matter rashly, or from hatred of the bishops, as some do falsely surmise. There was great need to admonish the Churches of those errors, which did arise from mistaking of traditions: for 10 the Gospel compelleth men to urge the doctrine of grace, and of 20 the righteousness of faith, in the Church; which yet can never be understood, if men suppose that they can merit remission of sins, and justification, by observances of their own choice. Thus therefore they teach us, that we cannot merit grace, or justifi- 21 cation, by the observance of man's traditions; and therefore we must not think that such observances are necessary service. Hereunto they add testimonies out of the Scriptures. Christ ex- 22 cuseth his disciples, which kept not the received tradition (which yet seemed to be about a matter not unlawful, but indifferent, and to have some affinity with the baptisms of the law); and saith, "They worship me in vain with the commandments of men:' 1 THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 801 Matt. xv. 9. Christ therefore exacteth no unprofitable service. And a little after, he addeth: "Whatsoever entereth in at the 23 mouth defileth not the man:" ver. 11. So also Paul: "The kingdom of God is not meat and drink:" Rom. xv. 17. " Let no 24 man judge you in meat or drink, or in respect of the Sabbath- 25 days, or of a holiday:" Col. ii. 16. Again : "If ye be dead with 26 Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though ye lived in the world, are ye subject to traditions ; Touch not, taste not, handle not?" ver. 20, 21. Peter saith, "Why tempt ye God, 27 laying a yoke upon the necks of the disciples, which neither we, nor our fathers, were able to bear ? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, we shall be saved even as they:" Acts xv. 10, 11. Here Peter forbiddeth to burden the 28 consciences with many rites, whether they be of Moses', or of any others', appointing. And Paul calleth the forbidding of meats, " a doctrine of devils," 1 Tim. iv. 1, because that it is against 29 the Gospel, to appoint or do such works, to the end that by them we may merit grace, or justification, or as though Christianity could not exist without such service. Here our adversaries object against us, that oar ministers hin- 30 der all good discipline, and mortification of the flesh ; as Jovinian did. But the contrary may be seen by our men's writings. For 31 they have always taught, touching the cross, that Christians ought to bear afflictions. This is the true, earnest, and unfeigned 32 mortification, to be exercised with divers afflictions, and to be crucified with Christ. Moreover they teach, that every Christian 33 must so by bodily discipline, or bodily exercises and labor, exer- cise and keep himself under, that plenty and sloth do not stimu- late him to sin ; not that he may by such exercises merit grace, or satisfy for sins. And this corporal discipline should be used 34 always, not only on a few, and set days ; according to the com- mandment of Christ : " Take heed lest your hearts be overcharged 35 with surfeiting:" Luke xxi. 34. Again, "This kind (of devils) 36 goeth not out but by prayer and fasting:" Matt. xvii. 21. And Paul saith, " I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection :" 37 1 Cor. ix. 27, where he plainly showeth, that he did therefore 38 chastise his body, not that by that discipline he might merit re- mission of sins, but that his body might be apt and fit tor spirit- ual things and to do his duty, according to his calling. There- 39 fore we do not condemn fasts themselves, but the traditions which prescribe certain days and certain meats, with danger to the con- science, as though such works as these were a necessary service. Yet most ot the traditions are observed among us, which tend 40 unto this end, that things may be done orderly in the Church ; as namely, the order of Lessons in the Mass, and the chiefest holi- days. But, in the meantime, men are admonished, that such a 41 service doth not justify before God, and that it is not to be sup- posed there is sin in such things if they be left undone without scandal. This liberty in human rites and ceremonies was not un- 42 known to the Fathers. For in the East they kept Easter at an- 43 other time than they did in Rome : and when they of Rome accused the East of schism for this diversity, they were admon- ished by others, that such customs need not be alike everywhere. And Irena?us saith : " The disagreement about fasting doth not 44 break off the agreement of faith." Besides, Pope Gregory, in the 302 THE CONFESSIONS. 12th Distinction, intimates, that such diversity doth not hurt the unity of the Church : and in the Tripartite History, lib. 9, many 45 examples of dissimilar rites are gathered together, and these words are there rehearsed, " The mind of the Apostles was, not to give precepts concerning holidays, but to preach godliness and a holy life [faith and love]." Article XXYII. (VI.) Of Monastic Vows. What is taught amongst us touching the Vows of Monks will 1 be better understood, if one call to mind what was the state of monasteries, and how many things were every day committed in the monasteries, contrary to the Canons. In Augustine's time, 2 cloister-fraternities were free; but afterward, when discipline was corrupted, vows were everywhere laid upon them, that, as it were in a newly- devised prison, the discipline might be restored again. Over and besides vows, many other observances by little and little 3 were added. And these bands and snares were cast upon many, 4 before they came to ripe years, contrary to the Canons. Many 5 through error fell into this kind of life unawares, who, though they wanted not years, yet they wanted discretion to judge of their strength and ability. They who were once got within these 6 nets, were constrained to abide in them, though, by the benefit of the Canons, some might be set at liberty. And that felJ out 7 rather in the monasteries of nuns than of monks ; although the weaker sex ought more to have been spared. This rigor and se- 8 verity displeased many good men heretofore, when they saw young maids and young men thrust into monasteries, there to get their living. They saw what an unhappy issue this counsel had, what offences it bred, and what snares it laid upon consciences. They were grieved that the authority of the Canons was wholly 9 neglected and contemned in a thing most dangerous. To all 10 these evils there was added such a persuasion concerning vows, as, it is well known, did in former times displease the monks themselves, if any of them were somewhat wiser than the rest. They taught that vows were equal to baptism : they taught that 11 by this kind of life they merited remission of sins, and justifica- tion before God; yea, they added, that the monk's life did not 12 only merit righteousness before God, but more than that, because it observed, not only the commandments, but also the counsels of the Gospel. And thus they taught, that the monk's profession 13 was better than baptism, that the monk's life did merit more than the life of magistrates, of pastors, and such like, who, in obedience to God's commandment, followed their calling, without any such religions of man's making. None of these things can 14 be denied : they are to be seen in their writings. What occurred afterward in the monasteries ? In old time they were schools for 15 the study of sacred letters, and other branches of knowledge, which were profitable to the Church ; and thence were pastors and bishops taken : but now the case is altered. It is needless to rehearse what is notorious. In old time they came together 16 into such places to learn : but now they feign that it is a kind of life taken up to merit remission of sins, and justification ; yea, they say it is a state of perfection, and prefer it to all other kinds THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 303 of life, the kinds that God ordained. We have therefore men- 17 tioned these things, not to excite odium, exaggerating nothing, to the end that the doctrine of our Churches touching this matter might be understood. First, concerning such as contract marriage, thus they teach 18 among us : that it is lawful for any to marry, that are not adapted for a single life ; forasmuch as vows cannot take away God"s ordi- nance and commandment. The commandment of God is, "To 19 avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife : " 1 Cor. vii : 2. And not only the commandment, but also the creation and 20 ordinance of God, compelleth such unto marriage, as without the special work of God are not exempted : according to that saying. ** It is not good for man to be alone : " Gen. ii : 18. They there- 21 fore that are obedient to this commandment and ordinance of God, do not sin. What can be said against these things ? Let a man exaggerate 22 the bond of a vow as much as he will, vet can he never bring to pass that the vow shall take away God's commandment. The 23 Canons teach, " that in every vow the right of the superior is ex- cepted : " much less therefore can these vows, which are contrary to God's commandment, be of force. If so be that the obligation of vows has no cause why it might 24 be changed, then could not the Roman Pontiffs have dispensed therewith. For neither is it lawful for man to disannul that bond, which doth simply belong to the law of God. But the Roman 25 Pontiffs have judged very prudently, that in this obligation there must equity be used : therefore they often, as we read, have dis- pensed with vows. The history of the King of Arragon, being 26 called back out of a monastery, is well known ; and there are ex- amples in our own time. Secondly, why do our adversaries exaggerate the obligation, or 27 the effect of the vow ; when in the meantime they speak not a word of the very nature of a vow, that it ought to be in a thing possible, ought to be voluntary, and taken up of a man's own ac- cord, and with deliberation ? But it is not unknown, how far 28 perpetual chastity is in the power of a man. And how many a one amongst them is there, that doth vow of his own accord, and well advised? Maidens and youths, before they know how 29 to judge, are persuaded, yea. sometimes also compelled, to vow. 30 Wherefore it is not meet to dispute so rigorously of the obliga- tion, seeing that all men confess, that it is against the nature of a vow, that it is not done of a man's own accord, nor advisedly. The Canons for the the most part disannul vows, which are 31 made before fifteen years of age ; because that, before one come to that age, there seemeth not to be so much jndgment, that de- termination may be made concerning a perpetual life. Another 32 Canon, permitting more to the weakness of men. doth add some years more : for it forbiddeth a vow to be made, before one be eighteen years of age. But which of these shall we follow? The 33 greatest part have this excuse for forsaking monasteries, because most of them vowed before they came to this age. Last of all, even though the breaking of a vow were to be rep- 34 rehended, yet it seems not to follow directly that the marriages of such persons are to be dissolved. For Augustine, in his 27th 35 quest. 1st chapt. Of Marriages, doth deny that they ou^ht to be 304 THE CONFESSIONS, dissolved : and his authority is not lightly to be esteemed, al- though others afterward have thought otherwise. And al- 36 though the commandment of God, touching wedlock, doth free most men from vows; yet our teachers do also bring another reason concerning vows, to show that they are void: because that all the worship of God, instituted of men without the com- mandment of God, and chosen to merit remission of sins, and jus- tification, is wicked ; as Christ saith : " In vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men :" Matt. xv. 9. And Paul doth everywhere teach, that righteousness is not 37 to be sought of our own observances, and services which are de- vised by men ; but that it cometh by faith to those that believe that they are received into favor by God for Christ's sake. But 38 it is evident that the monks did teach, that these counterfeited religions satisfy for sins, and merit grace and justification. What else is this, than to detract from the glory of Christ, and to ob- scure and deny the righteousness of faith? Wherefore it follow- 39 eth, that these common vows were wicked services, and are therefore void. For a wicked vow, and that which is made 40 against the commandments of God, is one of no force ; neither, as the Canon saith, ought a vow to be a bond of iniquity. Paul 41 saith, " Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law ; ye are fallen from grace :" Gal. v. 4. They therefore who wish to be justified by vows, are made void 42 of Christ, and fall from grace. For they also who attribute jus- 43 tification to their vows, attribute to their own works what prop- erly belongs to the glory of Christ. Nor truly can it be denied, 44 that the monks taught that they are justified by their vows and observances, and merit the remission of sins ; nay, they invented yet greater absurdities, and said they could transfer their good works to others. If any man wished to expand these things, so 45 as to excite odium, how many things might he rehearse, whereof the monks themselves are now ashamed! Moreover, they would 46 persuade men that these invented religious orders are a state of Christian perfection. Or is this not attributing justification to 47 works? It is no light offence in the Church to propound unto 48 the people a certain service devised by men, without the com- mandment of God, and to teach that such a service doth justify men : because that the righteousness of faith which ought espe- cially to be taught in the Church, is obscured, when those mar- vellous religions of angels, the pretence of poverty and humility, and of celibacy, are cast before men's eyes. Moreover the com- 49 mandments of God, and the true worship of God, are obscured, when men hear that monks alone are in that state of perfection: because that Christian perfection is this, to fear God sincerely, and again, to conceive great faith, and to trust assuredly that God is pacified toward us, for Christ's sake; to ask, and certainly to look for, help from God in all our affairs, according to our calling ; and outwardly to do good works diligently, and to at- tend to our vocation. In these things doth true perfection and 50 the true worship of God consist: it doth not consist in singleness of life, in beggary, or in vile apparel. The people doth also conceive many pernicious opinions from 51 these false commendations of the monastic life. They hear celi- 52 bacy praised above measure : therefore with offence of conscience THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 305 they live in marriage. They hear that mendicants only are per- 53 feet: therefore with offence of conscience they keep their posses- sions, and buy and sell. They hear that the Gospel only giveth 54 counsel not to take revenge : therefore some in private life are not afraid to avenge themselves ; for they hear that it is a coun- sel, not a commandment. Others do think that all magistracy 55 and civil offices are unworthy a Christian man. We read ex- 56 amples of men, who, forsaking wedlock, and leaving the govern- ment of the commonwealth, have hid themselves in monasteries. 57 This they called flying out of the world, and seeking a kind of life which is more acceptable to God : neither did they see that God is to be served in those commandments which he himself hath delivered, not in the commandments which are devised by men. That is a good and perfect kind of life, which hath the 58 commandment of God for it. It is necessary to admonish men 59 of these things. And before these times Gerson did reprehend this 60 error of the monks concerning perfection ; and witnesseth, that in his time this was a new saying, that the monastical life is a state of perfection. Thus many wicked opinions do cleave fast 61 unto vows : as that they merit remission of sins and justification, that they are Christian perfection, that they do keep the counsels and commandments, that they have works of supererogation. 62 All these things (seeing they be false and vain) do make vows to be of none effect. Article XXVIII. (VII.) Of Ecclesiastical Power. There have been great controversies touching the power of 1 bishops ; in which many have incommodiously mingled together the Ecclesiastical power, and power of the sword. And out of 2 this confusion there have sprung very great wars and tumults, while that the Pontiffs trusting in the power of the keys, have not only appointed new kinds of service, and burdened men's con- sciences by reserving of cases, and by violent excommunications; but have also endeavored to transfer worldly kingdoms from one to another, and to despoil emperors of their power and authority. These faults did godly and learned men long since reprehend in 3 the Church : and for that cause, our teachers were compelled, for 4 the comfort of men's consciences, to show the difference between the Ecclesiastical power and the power of the sword. And they have taught that both of them, because of God's commandment. are dutifully to be reverenced and honored, as the chief est bless- ings of God upon earth. Now. their judgment is this : that the power of the keys, or the 5 power of the bishops, by the rule of the Gospel, is a power, or commandment from God, of preaching the Gospel, of remitting or retaining sins, and of admininistering the Sacraments. For 6 Christ doth send his Apostles with this charge: "As the Father hath sent me. even so send I you. Receive ye the Holy Ghost: whosesoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them ; and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained:" John xx. 21-23. " Go, and preach the Gospel to every creature," &c: Mark xvi. 7 15. This power is put in execution, only by teaching or preach- 8 ing the Gospel, and administering the Sacraments, either to 306 THE CONFESSIONS. many, or to single individuals, in accordance with their call. For thereby not corporal things, but eternal, are granted ; as an 9 eternal righteousness, the Holy Ghost, life everlasting. These 10 things cannot be got, but by the ministry of the word and of the Sacraments : as Paul saith : " The Gospel is the power of God to salvation to every one that believeth :" Rom. i. 16. Seeing then 11 that the Ecclesiastical power concerneth things eternal, and is exercised only by the ministry of the word, it hindereth not the political government, any more than the art of singing hinders political government. For the political administration is occu- 12 pied about other matters than is the Gospel. The magistracy defends not the minds, but the bodies, and bodily things, against manifest injuries ; and coerces men by the sword and corporal punishments, that it may uphold civil justice and peace. Wherefore the Ecclesiastical and civil powers are not to be 13 confounded. The Ecclesiastical power hath its own command- ment to preach the Gospel, and administer the Sacraments. Let 14 it not by force enter into the office of another ; let it not transfer worldly kingdoms ; let it not abrogate the magistrates' laws ; let it not withdraw from them lawful obedience ; let it not hinder judgments touching any civil ordinances or contracts ; let it not prescribe laws to the magistrate, touching the form of the repub- lic ; as Christ saith, " My kingdom is not of this world :" John 15 xviii. 36. Again, " Who made me a judge or divider over you?" 16 Luke xii. 14. And Paul saith : " Our conversation [citizenship] 17 is in heaven:" Phil. iii. 20. u The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God, casting down imaginations," &c: 2 Cor. x. 4. In this way do our teachers distinguish be- 18 tween the duties of each power one from the other, and do warn all men to honor both powers, and to acknowledge both to be the [highest] gift and blessing of God. If so be that the bishops have any power of the sword, they 19 have it not as bishops by the commandment of the Gospel, but by man's law given unto them of kings and emperors, for the civil government of their goods. This, however, is a kind of function diverse from the ministry of the Gospel. Therefore, when the question touches the jurisdiction of 20 bishops, government must be distinguished from Ecclesiastical jurisdiction. Again, by the Gospel, or, as they term it, by divine 21 right, bishops, as bishops, that is, those who have the administra- tion of the word and Sacraments committed to them, have no other jurisdiction at all, but only to remit sin, also to take cogni- zance of [to judge in regard to] doctrine, and to reject doctrine inconsistent with the Gospel, and to exclude from the communion of the Church, without human force, but by the word [of God], those whose wickedness is known. And herein of necessity the 22 Churches ought by Divine right to render obedience unto them ; according to the saying of Christ, " He that heareth you, heareth me;" Luke x. 16. But when they teach or determine anything 23 contrary to the Gospel, then have the Churches a commandment of God, which forbiddeth obedience to them: "Beware of false prophets ;" Matt. vii. 15. " If an angel from heaven preach any 24 other Gospel, let him be accursed ;" Gal. i. 9. " We cannot do 25 anything against the truth, but for the truth :" 2 Cor. xiii. 8. Also, u This power is given us to edify, and not to destroy :" 2 26 THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION 307 Cor. xiii. 10. So do the Canons command; ii. qnsest. "7, Cap. 27 Sacerdotes; and Cap. Oves. And Augustine, in his Treatise against 28 Petilians Epistle, saith, " Xeither must we subscribe to Catholic bishops, if they chance to err, or determine anything contrary to the canonical Scriptures." If so be that they have any other power or jurisdiction, in 29 hearing and understanding certain cases, as namely, of Matri- mony, and Tithes, kc, they hold it by human right. But when the ordinaries fail [to attend to this office], princes are con- strained, whether they wish to do so or not, to declare the law to their subjects, for maintaining of peace. Besides these things, there is a controversy, whether bishops or 30 pastors have power to institute ceremonies in the Church, and to make laws concerning meats, and holidays, and degrees, or orders of ministers. They that ascribe this power to the bishops, allege 31 this testimony for it : "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now ; but when that Spirit of truth shall come, he shall teach you all truth:" John xvi. 12, 13. They allege also the examples of the Apostles, who commanded 32 to abstain from blood, and that which was strangled : Acts xv. 29. They allege the change of the Sabbath into the Lord's day, 33 contrary, as it seemeth, to the Decalogue ; and they have no ex- ample more in their mouths, than the change of the Sabbath. They will needs have the Church's power to be very great, be- cause it hath dispensed with a precept of the Decalogue. But of this question ours do thus teach : that the bishops have 34 no power to ordain anything contrary to the Gospel, as was showed before. The same also do the Canons teach, Distinct. 9. Moreover it is against the Scripture, to ordain or require the ob- 35 servation of any traditions, to the end that we may merit remis- sion of sins, and satisfy for sins by them. For the glory of 36 Christ's merit suffers, when we seek by such observances to merit justification. And it is very apparent, that through this persua- 3*7 sion traditions grew into an infinite number in the Church. In the meanwhile, the doctrine concerning faith, and the righteous- ness of faith was quite suppressed, for thereupon there were new holidays made, new fasts appointed, new ceremonies, new wor- ships for saints, instituted ; because that the authors of such things supposed by these works to merit grace. After the same 38 manner heretofore did the Penitential Canons increase, whereof we still see some traces in satisfactions. Moreover the authors of traditions do contrary to the command 39 of God, when they find matters of sin in foods, in days and like things, and burden the Church with the servitude of the law, as if there ought to be among Christians, in order to merit justifica- tion, a service like the Levitical, the ordination of which God has committed to the Apostles and bishops. For this some of 40 them write, and the Pontiffs in some measure seem to be misled by the example of the Law of Moses. From hence are those bur- 41 dens, that it is mortal sin, even without offence to others, to do mauual labor on the festivals, that it is a mortal sin to omit the Canonical Hours, that certain foods defile the conscience, that fastings are works which appease God ; that sin, inareserved case, cannot be pardoned, but by the authority of him that reserved it ; whereas the Canons speak only of reserving of Ecclesiastical 308 THE CONFESSIONS, penalty, and not of the reserving of the fault. Whence, then, 42 have the bishops power and authority of imposing these traditions upon the Churches, for the ensnaring of men's consciences, when Peter forbids (Acts xv. 10) " to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples," and St. Paul says (2 Cor. xiii. 10) that the power given him was to edification, not to destruction? Why, therefore, do they increase sins by those traditions ? For there are divers clear 43 testimonies, which prohibit the making of such traditions, either to merit grace, or as things necessary to salvation. Paul saith to 44 the Colossians, "Let no man judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holiday, or of the new moon, or of the Sabbath days :" Col. ii. 16. Again, " If ye be dead with Christ from the 45 rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances (Touch not, taste not, handle not? which all are to perish with the using), after the commandments and doctrines of men ? which things indeed have a show of wis- dom :" Col. ii. 20-23. And to Titus he doth plainly forbid tradi- 46 tions: for he saith, "Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and to commandments of men, that turn from the truth:". Tit. i. 14. And Christ saith of them, which urge traditions, "Let them 47 alone; they be blind leaders of the blind :" Matt. xv. 14. And he condemneth such services : " Every plant which my heavenly 48 Father hath not planted shall be rooted up:" ver. 13. If bishops 49 have authority to burden the Churches with innumerable tradi- tions, and to snare men's consciences, why doth the Scripture so oft forbid to make and to listen to traditions ? Why doth it call them the doctrines of devils ? 1 Tim. iv. I. Hath the Holy Ghost warned us of them to no purpose? It remaineth, then, that (seeing ordinances, constituted as 50 necessary, or with the opinion of meriting grace, are repugnant to the Gospel) it is not lawful for any bishops to institute or exact such worship. For it is necessary that the doctrine of Christian 51 liberty should be maintained in the Churches [Christendom]; that the bondage of the law is not necessary unto justification, as it is written to the Galatians, " Be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage:" Gal. v. 1. It is necessary that the chiefest 52 point of all the Gospel should be holden fast, that we do freely obtain grace by faith in Christ, not because of certain obser- vances, or of services devised by men. What is then to be thought of the Lord's day, and of like rites 53 of temples? Hereunto they [ours] answer, that it is lawful for bishops or pastors to make ordinances, whereby things may be done in order in the Church ; not that by them we may merit grace, or satisfy for sins, or that men's consciences should be bound to esteem them as necessary services, and think that they sin when they violate them without the offence of others. So 54 Paul ordained, "That women should cover their heads in the con- gregation :" 1 Cor. xi. 6 ; " That the interpreters of Scripture should be heard in order in the Church :" 1 Cor. xiv. 27. Such ordinances it bihooveth the Churches to keep for charity 55 and quietness' sake, so that one offend not another, that all things may be done in order, and without tumult in the Church, 1 Cor. xiv. 40, and Phil. ii. 14, but so that consciences be not 56 burdened, so as to account them as things necessary to salvation, and think they sin when they violate them without offence of THE AUGSBURG CONFESSION. 309 others : as no one would say that a woman sins, if she went into public with her head uncovered, provided it were without the offence of men. Such is the observation of the Lord's day, of Easter, of Pente- 57 cost, and like holidays and rites. For they that think that the 58 observation of the Lord's day was appointed by the authority of the Church, instead of the Sabbath, as necessary, are greatly de- ceived. The Scripture, which teacheth that all the Mosaical 59 ceremonies can be omitted after the Gospel is revealed, has abro- gated the Sabbath. And yet. because it was requisite to appoint 60 a certain day. that the people might know when they ought to come together, it appears that the [Christian] Church did for that purpose appoint the Lord's day : which for this cause also seemed to have been pleasing, that men might have an example of Christian liberty, and might know that the observation, neither of the Sabbath, nor of any other day, was of necessity. There are certain marvellous disputations touching the 61 changing of the law, and the ceremonies of the new law, and the change of the Sabbath : which all arose from the false persuasion, that there should be a service in the Church, like to the Leviti- cal ; and that Christ committed to the Apostles and bishops, the devising new ceremonies, which should be necessary to salvation. These errors crept into the Church, when the righteousness of 62 faith was not plainly enough taught. Some dispute, that the 63 observation of the Lord's day is not indeed of the law of God, but as it were of the law of God : and touching holidays, they pre- scribe how far it is lawful to work in them. What else are such 64 disputations, but snares for men's consciences ? For though they seek to moderate traditions, yet the equity of them can never be perceived, so long as the opinion of necessity remaineth : which must needs remain, where the righteousness of faith, and Chris- tian liberty are not known. The Apostles commanded to abstain from blood : Acts xv. 29. 65 Who observeth that, nowadays? And yet they do not sin that observe it not. For the Apostles themselves would not burden men's consciences with such a servitude : but they forbade it for a time, because of scandal. For in the decree, the will of the 66 Gospel is always to be considered. Scarcely any Canons are 67 precisely kept: and many grow out of use daily, yea, even among them that do most busily defend traditions. Neither can there 68 be sufficient care had of men's consciences, except this equity be kept, that men should know that such rites are not to be ob- served with any opinion of necessity, and that men's consciences are not hurt, though traditions grow out of use. The bishops might easily retain lawful obedience, if they would 69 not urge men to observe such traditions as cannot be kept with a good conscience. Now they command single life ; and they ad- 70 mit none, except they will swear not to teach the pure doctrine of the Gospel. The Churches do not desire of the bishops, that 71 they would repair peace and concord with the loss of their honor (which yet good pastors ought to do) : they only desire that they 72 would remit unjust burdens, which are both new, and received contrary to the custom of the Catholic [Christian Universal] Church. It may well be, that some constitutions had some prob- 73 able reasons, when they began, which yet will not agree to latter 310 THE CONFESSIONS. times. It is evident that some were received through error. 74 Wherefore it were a matter for the pontifical gentleness to miti- gate them now ; for such a change would not overthrow the unity of the Church. For many human traditions have been changed in time, as the Canons themselves declare. But if it 75 cannot be obtained, that those observances may be relaxed, which cannot be kept without sin. then must we follow the Apostles' rule which willeth u to obey God rather than men :" Acts v. 29. Peter forbiddeth bishops to be lords, and to be imperious over the 76 Churches : 1 Pet. v. 3. Now our meaning is not to have rule 77 taken from the bishops : but this one thing only is requested at their hands, that they would suffer the Gospel to be purely taught, and that they would relax a few observances, which cannot be held without sin. But if they will remit none, let them look how they will give account to God for this, that by their obstinacy they afford cause of schism. CONCLUSION, These are the principal articles which seem to be matters of controversy. For although we might speak of more abuses, yet that we may avoid undue length, we have embraced a few, whereby it is easy to judge of the others. Great have been the complaints about indulgences, about pilgrimages, about the abuse of excommunication. The Parishes have been vexed in manifold ways by the stationarii. Endless contentions have arisen be- tween the pastors and the monks about parochial law, about con- fession, about burials, about sermons on extraordinary occasions, and about other things without number. Things of this sort we pass over, that those which are chief in this matter being briefly set forth may more easily be noted. Nor has anything been here said or adduced for the purpose of casting reproach on any one. Those things also have been enumerated, which it seemed neces- sary to say, that it might be understood, that in doctrine and ceremonials among us there is nothing received contrary to Scrip- ture or to the Catholic [Universal Christian] Church, inasmuch as it is manifest that we have diligently taken heed that no new and godless doctrines should creep into our Churches. In accordance with the Edict of His Imperial Majesty, we wish to present these articles above written, in which is our Confes- sion, and in which is seen a summary of the doctrine of those who teach among us. If anything be lacking in this Confession, we are prepared, God willing, to present ampler information, in accordance with the Scriptures. Your Imperial Majesty's most faithful and humble, John, Duke of Saxony, Elector. George, Margrave of Brandenburg. Ernest, Duke of Luneburg. Philip, Landgrave of Hesse. John Frederick, Duke of Saxony. Francis, Duke of Luneburg. Wolfgang, Prince of Anhalt. Senate and Magistracy of Nurenberg. Senate of Reutlingen. THE SMALL CATECHISM OP DR. MARTIN LUTHER. PREFACE OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER. Martin Luther to all faithful and godly pastors and preachers, Grace ) Mercy and Peace, in Jesus Christ, our Lord ! The deplorable condition in which I found religious affairs during a recent visitation of the congregations, has impelled rne to publish this Catechism, or statement of the Christian doctrine, after having prepared it in very brief and simple terms. Alas ! what misery I beheld! The people, especially those who live in the villages, seem to have no knowledge whatever of Christian doctrine, and many of the pastors are ignorant and incompetent teachers. And, neverthe- less, they all maintain that they are Christians, that they have been baptized, and that they have received the Lord's Supper. Yet they cannot recite the Lord's Prayer, the Creed, or the Ten Command- ments ; they live as if they were irrational creatures, and now that the Gospel has come to them, they grossly abuse their Christian liberty. Ye bishops ! what answer will ye give to Christ for having so shamefully neglected the people, and paid no attention to the duties of your office? I invoke no evil on your heads. But you withhold the cup in the Lord's Supper, insist on the observance of your human laws, and yet, at the same time, do not take the least interest in teaching the people the Lord's Prayer, the Creed, the Ten Command- ments, or any other part of the word of God. Woe unto you! Wherefore I beseech you in the name of God, my beloved brethren, who are pastors or preachers, to engage heartily in the discharge of duties of your office, to have mercy on the people who are entrusted to your care, and to assist us in introducing the Catechism among them, and especially among the young. And if any of you do not possess the necessary qualifications, I beseech you to take at least the following forms, and read them, word for word, to the people, on this wise : — In the first place ; let the preacher take the utmost care to avoid all changes or variations in the text and wording of the Ten Com- mandments, the Lord's Prayer, the Creed, the Sacraments, etc. Let him. on the contrary, take each of the forms respectively, adhere to it, and repeat it anew, year after year. For young and inexperienced people cannot be successfully instructed, unless we adhere to the same text or the same forms of expression. They easily become contused, when the teacher at one time employs a certain form of (311) 312 THE CONFESSIONS. words and expressions, and, at another, apparently with a view to make improvements, adopts a different form. The result of such a course will be, that all the time and lubor which we have expended will be lost . This poiat was veil understood by our venerable fathers, who were accustomed to use the same words in teaching the Lord's Prayer, the Creed, and the Ten Commandments. We, too, should follow this plan when we teach these things, particularly in the case of the young and ignorant, not changing a single syllable, nor intro- ducing any variations when, year after year, w r e recur to these forms and recite them anew before our hearers. Choose, therefore, the form of words which best pleases you, and adhere to it perpetually. When you preach in the presence of in- telligent and learned men, you are at liberty to exhibit your know- ledge and skill, and may present and discuss these subjects in all the varied modes which are at your command. But when you are teaching the young, retain the same form and manner without change; teach them, first of all, the Ten Commandments, the Creed, the Lord's Prayer, etc., always presenting the same words of the text, so that those w r ho learn can repeat them after you, and retain them in the memory. But if any refuse to receive your instructions, tell them plainly that they deny Christ and are not Christians ; such persons shall not be admitted to the Lord's Table, nor present a child for Baptism, nor enjoy any of our Christian privileges, but are to be sent back to the pope and his agents, and, indeed, to Satan himself. Their parents and employers should, besides, refuse to furnish them with food and drink, and notify them that the government was disposed to banish from the country all persons of such a rude and intractable character. For although we cannot, and should not, compel them to exercise faith, we ought, nevertheless, to instruct the great mass with all dili- gence, so that they may know how to distinguish between right and wrong in their conduct towards those with whom they live, or among whom they desire to earn their living. For whoever desires to reside in a city, and enjoy the rights and privileges which its laws confer, is also bound to know and obey those laws. God grant that such persons ma}* become sincere believers ! But if they remain dishonest and vicious, let them at least withhold from public view the vices of their hearts. In the second place ; when those whom you are instructing have become familiar with the words of the text, it is time to teach them to understand the meaning of those words, so that they may become acquainted with the object and purport of the lesson. Then pro- ceed to another of the following forms, or, at your pleasure, choose any other which is brief, and adhere strictly to the same words and forms of expression in the text, without altering a single syllable,- besides, allow yourself ample time for the lessons. For it is not necessary that you should, on the same occasion, proceed from the beginning to the end of the several parts; it will be more profitable if you present them separately, in regular successi^/i. When the people have, for instance, at length correctly understood the First Commandment, you may proceed to the Second, and so continue. By neglecting to observe this mode, the people wiil be overburdened, and be prevented from understanding and retaining in memory any considerable part of the matter communicated to them. THE SMALL CATECHISM. 313 In the third place ; when you have thus reached the end of this short Catechism, begin anew with the Large Catechism, and by means of it furnish the people with fuller and more comprehensive explanations. Explain here at large every Commandment, every Petition, and, indeed, every part, showing the duties which they severally impose, and both the advantages which follow the perfor- mance of those duties, and also the dangers and losses which result from the neglect of them. Insist in an especial manner on such Commandments or other parts as seem to be most of all misunder- stood or neglected by your people. It will, for example, be neces- sary that you should enforce with the utmost earnestness the Seventh Commandment, which treats of Stealing, when you are teaching workmen, dealers, and even farmers and servants, inasmuch as many of these are guilty of various dishonest and thievish prac- tices. So, too, it will be your duty to explain and apply the Fourth Commandment with great diligence, when you are teaching chil- dren and uneducated adults, and to urge them to observe order, to be faithful, obedient and peaceable, as well as to adduce numerous instances mentioned in the Scriptures, which show that God pun- ished such as were guilty in these things, and blessed the obedient. Here, too, let it be your great aim to urge magistrates and parents to rule wisely, and to educate the children, admonishing them, at the same time, that such duties are imposed on them, and showing them how grievously they sin if they neglect them. For in such a case they overthrow and lay waste alike the kingdom of God and the kingdom of the world, acting as if they were the worst enemies both of God and of man. And show them very plainly the shocking evils of which they are the authors, when they refuse their aid in training up children to be pastors, preachers, writers, etc., and set forth that on account of such sins God will inflict an awtul punish- ment upon them. It is indeed, necessary to preach on these things ; for parents and magistrates are guilty of sins in this respect, which are so great that there are no terms in which they can be described. And truly, Satan has a cruel design in fostering these evils. Finally ; inasmuch as the people are now relieved from the tyranny of the pope, they refuse to come to the Lord's Table, and treat it with contempt. On this point, also, it is very necessary that you should give them instructions, while, at the same time, you are to be guided by the following principles : That we are to compel no one to believe, or to receive the Lord's Supper; that we are not to establish any laws on this point, or appoint the time and place ; but that we should so preach as to influence the people, without any law adopted by us, to urge, and, as it were, to compel us who are pastors, to administer the Lord's Supper to them. Now this object may be attained, if we address them in the following manner: It is to be feared that he who does not desire to receive the Lord's Supper at least three or tour times during the year, despises the Sacrament, and is no Chistian. So. too. he is no Christian, who neither be- lieves nor obeys the Gospel ; for Christ did not say : " Omit, or de- spise this,''' but, e«mtr article. Of Redemption. And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord ; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary ; suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried ; He descended into hell; the third day He -rose again from the dead ; He ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty ; from thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. 318 THE CONFESSIONS. What is meant by this Article ? Answer. I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord ; who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned creature, secured and delivered me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil, not with silver and gold, but with his holy and precious blood, and with his innocent sufferings and death ; in order that I might be his, live under him in his kingdom, and serve him in everlasting righteousness, innocence and blessedness ; even as he is risen from the dead, and lives and reigns to all eternity. This is most certainly true. W$t ©fur* article* Of Sanctification. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy Christian Church, the Com- munion of Saints ; the Forgiveness of sins j the Resurrection of the body ; and the Life everlasting. Amen. What is meant by this Article f Answer. I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength be- lieve in Jesus Christ my Lord, or come to him ; but the Holy Ghost has called me through the gospel, enlightened me by his gifts, and sanctified and preserved me in the true faith ; in like manner as he calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian Church on earth, and preserves it in union with Jesus Christ in the true faith ; in which Christian Church he daily forgives abundantly all my sins, and the sins of all believers, and will raise up me and all the dead at the last day, and will grant everlasting life to me and to all who believe in Christ. This is most certainly true. PART III. THE LORD'S PRAYER. In the plain form in which it is to be taught by the Head of a family* C&e ^ntrotottctioiu Our Father who art in heaven. What is meant by this Introduction f Answer. God would thereby affectionately encourage us to believe that he is truly our Father, and that we are his children indeed, so that we may call upon him with all cheerfulness and confidence, even as beloved children entreat their affectionate parent. Cfje first Petition* Hallowed be thy name. What is meant by this Petition f Answer. The name of God is indeed holy in itself; but we pray in this petition that it may be hallowed also by us. THE SMALL CATECHISM. 319 How is this effected ? Answer. When the Word of God is taught in its truth and purity, and we, as the children of God, lead holy lives in accordance with it ; to this may our blessed Father in heaven help us ! But who- ever teaches and lives otherwise than as God's Word prescribes, pro- fanes the name of God among us ; from this preserve us, Heavenly Father ! Thy kingdom come. What is meant by this Petition f Answer. The kingdom of God comes indeed of itself, without our prayer ; but we pray in this petition that it may come unto us also. When is this effected t Answer. When our heavenly Father gives us his Holy Spirit, so that by his grace we believe his holy Word, and live a godly life here on earth, and in heaven for ever. €&e ©fur* Petition* Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. What is meant by this Petition f Answer. The good and gracious will of God is done indeed with- out our prayer ; but we pray in this petition that it may be done by us also. When is this effected t Answer. When God frustrates and brings to naught every evil counsel and purpose, which would hinder us from hallowing the name of God, and prevent his kingdom from coming to us, such as the will of the devil, of the world, and of our own flesh ; and when he strengthens us, and keeps us steadfast in his Word and in the faith, even unto our end. This is his gracious and good will. ©j)e JFourtj) Petition* Give us this day our daily bread. What is meant by this Petition f Answer. God gives indeed without our prayer even to the wicked also their daily bread ; but we pray in this petition that he would make us sensible of his benefits, and enable us to receive our daily bread with thanksgiving. What is implied in the words : " Our daily bread " ? Answer. All things that pertain to the wants and the support of this present life ; such as food, raiment, money, goods, house and land, and other property ; a believing spouse and good children ; trustworthy servants and faithful magistrates ; favorable seasons, peace and health ; education and honor ; true friends, good neigh- bors, and the like. C&e jFtftf) Petition* And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. 320 THE CONFESSIONS. What is meant by this Petition f Ansiver. We pray in this petition, that our heavenly Father would not regard our sins, nor deny us our requests on account of them; for we are not worthy of any thing for which we pray, and have not merited it ; but that he would grant us all things through grace, although we daily commit much sin, and deserve chastisement alone. We will therefore, on our part, both heartily forgive, and also readily do good to, those who may injure or offend us. €\)t Sijrtj) Petition* And lead us not into temptation. What is meant by this Petition f Answer. God indeed tempts no one to sin ; but we pray in this petition that God would so guard and preserve us, that the devil, the world, and our own flesh, may not deceive us, nor lead us into error and unbelief, despair, and other great and shameful sins ; and that, though we may be thus tempted, we may nevertheless finally pre- vail and gain the victory. W$t &t*txit\) Petition* But deliver us from evil. What is meant by this Petition ? Ansiver. We pray in this petition, as in a summary, that our heavenly Father would deliver us from all manner of evil, whether it affect the body or soul, property or character, and, at last, when the hour of death shall arrive, grant us a happy end, and graciously take us from this world of sorrow to himself in heaven. 2C|)e Conclusion* For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. What is meant by the word " Amen " f Answer. That I should be assured that such petitions are accept- able to our heavenly Father, and are heard by him ; for he himself has commanded us to pray in this manner, and has promised that he will hear us. Amen, Amen, that is, Yea, yea, it shall be so. PART IV. THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM. In the plain form in which it is to be taught by the Head of a family. I. What is Baptism f Answer. Baptism is not simply water, but it is the water compre- hended in God's command, and connected with God's Word. What is that Word of God f Answer. It is that which our Lord Jesus Christ spake, as it is re« THE SMALL CATECHISM. 321 corded in the last chapter of Matthew, verse 19 : " Go ye, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and ot the Holy Ghost." II. Wliat gifts or benefits does Baptism confer? Answer. It worketh forgiveness of sins, delivers from death and the devil, and confers everlasting salvation on all who believe, as the Word and promise of God declare. What are such words and promises of God? Answer. Those which our Lord Jesus Christ spake, as they are re- corded in the last chapter of Mark, verse 16: "He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." III. How can water produce such great effects? Answer. It is not the water indeed that produces these effects, but the Word of God, which accompanies and is connected with the water, and our faith, which relies on the Word of God connected with the water. For the water, without the Word of God, is simply water and no baptism. But when connected with the Word of God, it is a baptism, that is, a gracious water of life and a "washing of regeneration " in the Holy Ghost ; as St. Paul says to Titus, in the third chapter, ver. 5-8: "According to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost ; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; that being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. This is a faithful saying." IV. What does such baptizing ivith. water signify ? Answer. It signifies that the old Adam in us is to be drowned and destroyed by daily sorrow and repentance, together with all sins and evil lusts; and that again the new man should daily come forth and rise, that shall live in the presence of God in righteousness and purity for ever. Where is it so written ? Answer. St. Paul, in the Epistle to the Romans, chapter 6, verse 4, says : " We are buried with Christ by baptism into death ; that like as he was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." OF CONFESSION. What is Confession ? Answer. Confession consists of two parts : the one is, that we con- fess our sins; the other, that we receive absolution or forgiveness through the pastor as of God himself, in no wise doubting, but firmly believing that our sins are thus forgiven before God in heaven. What sins ought we to confess ? Answer. In the presence of God we should acknowledge ourselves guilty of all manner of sins, even of those which we do not our- selves perceive; as we do in the Lord's Prayer. But in the presence of the pastor we should confess those sins alone, of which we have knowledge, and which we feel in our hearts. 322 THE CONFESSIONS. Which are these f Answer. Here reflect in your condition, according to the Ten Com- mandments, namely: Whether you are a father or mother, a son or daughter, a master or mistress, a manservant or maidservant — whether you have been disobedient, unfaithful, slothful — whether you have injured any one by words or actions — whether you have stolen, neglected, or wasted aught, or done other evil. PART V. THE SACRAMENT OF THE ALTAR, OR THE LORD'S SUPPER. In the plain form in which it is to be taught by the Head of a family. What is the Sacrament of the Altar* Answer. It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, under the bread and wine, given unto us Christians to eat and to drink, as it was instituted by Christ himself. Where is it so written f Answer. The holy Evangelists, Matthew, Mark, and Luke, together with St. Paul, write thus : " Our Lord Jesus Christ, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread : and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body, which is given for you : this do, in remembrance of me. a After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it : this cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you, for the remission of sins : this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. 7 ' What benefits are derived from such eating and drinking t Answer. They are pointed out in these words : "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins." Namely, through these words, the remission of sins, life and salvation are granted unto us in the Sacra- ment. For where there is remission of sins, there are also life and salvation. How can the bodily eating and drinking produce such great effects f Answer. The eating and the drinking, indeed, do not produce them, but the words which stand here, namely : " Given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins." These words are, besides the bodily eat- ing and drinking, the chief things in the Sacrament : and he who believes these words, has that which they declare and set forth, namely, the remission of sins. Who is it, then, that receives this Sacrament worthily f Answer. Fasting and bodily preparation are indeed a good external discipline ; but he is truly worthy and well prepared, who believes these words: " Given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins." But he who does not believe these words, or who doubts, is unworthy and unfit; for the words: " For You," require truly believing hearts. THE SMALL CATECHISM. 323 MORNING AND EVENING PRAYER, In the form in which they are to be taught by the Head of a family. Wonting draper* f In the Morning, when thou risest, thou shalt say : In the Xame of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. fl Then, kneeling or standing, thou shall say the Apostles' Creed and the Lord's Prayer. fl Then may est thou say this Prayer : I give thanks unto Thee, heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ Thy dear Son, that Thou hast protected me through the night from all danger and harm ; and I beseech Thee to preserve and keep me, this day also, from all sin and evil ; that in all my thoughts, words, and deeds, I may serve and please Thee. Into Thy hands I com- mend my body and soul, and all that is mine. Let Thy holy angel have charge concerning me, that the wicked one have no power over me. Amen. ^ And then shouldst thou go with joy to thy work, after a Hymn, or the Ten Com- mandments, or whatever thy devotion may suggest. ©betting; draper* 1T In the Evening, when thou goest to bed, thou shalt say : In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. fl Then, kneeling or standing, thou shalt say the Apostles' Creed and the Lord's Prayer. f Then may est thou say this Prayer : I give thanks unto Thee, heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ Thy dear Son, that Thou hast this day so graciously protected me, and I beseech Thee to forgive me all my sins, and the wrong which I have done, and by Thy great mercy defend me from all the perils and dangers of this night. Into Thy hands I commend my body and soul, and all that is mine. Let Thy holy angel have charge con- cerning me, that the wicked one have no power over me. Amen. f And then lie down in peace, and sleep. THE BLESSING AND THANKSGIVING AT TABLE, In the form in which they are to be taught by the Head of a family. (Srace before ^Heat Tf Before meat, the members of the family standing at the table reverently and with folded hands, there shall be said: The eyes of all wait upon Thee, Lord : and Thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest Thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing. % Then shall be said the Lord's Prayer, and after thai this Prayer : Lord God, heavenly Father, bless unto us these Thy gifts, 324 THE CONFESSIONS. which of Thy tender kindness Thou hast bestowed upon us, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Shanks after fRtzU ^ After meat, all standing reverently ami with folded hands, there shall be said: give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good : for His mercy en- dureth for ever. He giveth food to all flesh: He giveth to the beast his food, and to the young ravens which cry. He delighteth not in the strength of the horse ; He taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear Him: in those that hope in His mercy. fl Then shall be said the Lord's Prayer, and after that this Prayer. We give thanks to thee, God our Father, for all Thy benefits, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Who with Thee liveth and reigneth, for ever and ever. Amen. TABLE OF DUTIES, Or, certain passages of the Scriptures, selected for various orders and conditions of men, wherein their respective duties are set forth. 38tej)0pa, Pastors, anfc Preadjers* A bishop must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach ; not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre ; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; one that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity ; not a novice, but hold- ing fast the faithful Word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gain- sayers. 1 Tim. iii. 2-6 ; Tit. i. 9. SUa&at duties $>earera ©toe tljeir ^Staljops* Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the Gospel should live of the Gospel (1 Cor. ix. 14). Let him that is taught in the Word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things [Gal. vi. 6). Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labor in word and doctrine. For the Scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The laborer is worthy of his reward (1 Tim. v. 17, 18). Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy and not with grief; for that is unprofitable for you (Heb. xiii. 17). ^apstratea* Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God : the powers that be are ordained of God ; for rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good, and thou THE SMALL CATECHISM. 325 shalt have praise of the same ; for he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid ; for he beareth not the sword in vain : for he is the minister of God, a re- venger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Rom. xiii. 1-4. SSRfjat TDutita gmbjectiS ©toe ffim&Uztz*. Render therefore unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's [Matt. xxii. 21). Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers, etc. Wherefore we must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For this cause pay ye tribute also ; for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Ren- der therefore to all their dues ; tribute to whom tribute is due ; cus- tom to whom custom ; fear to whom fear ; honour to whom honour (Rom. xiii. 1, 5ff.). I exhort, therefore, that, first of all, supplica- tions, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men; for kings and for all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty (1 Tim. ii.^T.). Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, etc. (Tit. iii. 1). Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake : whether it be to the king as supreme ; or unto gover- nors as those that are sent, etc. (1 Pet. ii. 13/.) Jmsfcanta* Ye husbands, dwell with your wives according to knowledge, giv- ing honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life : that your prayers be not hindered. 1 Pet. iii. 7. And be not bitter against them. Col. iii. 19. Wives, submit yourselves unto your husbands, as unto the Lord. Even as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord : whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amaze- ment. Eph. v. 22 ; 1 Pet. iii. 6. ^arente. Ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Eph. vi. 4. Cljilfctetu Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honor thy father and mother ; which is the first commandment with prom- ise ; that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. Eph. vi. 1-3. JHale anU jFetnale Servants, anU laborers* Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers ; but as the ser- vants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart ; with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men ; knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. Eph. vi. 5-8. 326 THE CONFESSIONS. iHastera an* ^stresses. Ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven ; neither is there respect of persons with him. Eph. vi. 9. gottng Persons, in general. Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility ; for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. 1 Pet. v. 5, 6. iSRtooto*. She that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day; but she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth. 1 Tim. v. 5, 6. ©fcriatians, in general. Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. Herein are comprehended all the commandments. Rom. xiii. 9, 10. And persevere in prayer for all men. 1 Tim. ii. 1, 2. When all the members of a household faithfully discharge their respective duties, it will prosper and be happy. Mt.^-:..^ ,.; .- ' 9 r,teJ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 017 458 905 7 ■ ■