MORNING PRAYER1: The Preparation

O Lord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

In your resurrection, O Christ  let heaven and earth rejoice. Alleluia.

Blessed are you, Lord God of our salvation,  to you be praise and glory for ever. As once you ransomed your people from Egypt  and led them to freedom in the promised land so now you have delivered us from the dominion of darkness  and brought us into the kingdom of your risen Son. May we, the first fruits of your new creation,  rejoice in this new day you have made  and praise you for your mighty acts. Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Blessed be God for ever.

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PASCHA NOSTRUM - The Easter Anthems (1 Cor 5.76, 8; Rom 6.9-11; 1 Cor 15.20-22)

1 Christ our passover has been sacrificed for us: • so let us celebrate the feast, 2 not with the old leaven of corruption and wickedness: * but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth 3 Christ once raised from the dead dies no more: • death has no more dominion over him. 4 In dying he died to sin once for all: • in living he lives to God. 5 See yourselves therefore as dead to sin: • and alive to God in Jesus Christ our Lord. 6 Christ has been raised from the dead: • the first fruits of those who sleep. 7 For as by man came death: • by man has come also the resurrection of the dead; 8 for as in Adam all die: • even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

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2: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 118 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his mercy endures for ever. Let Israel now proclaim, “His mercy endures for ever.” Let the house of Aaron now proclaim, “His mercy endures for ever.” Let those who fear the Lord now proclaim, “His mercy endures for ever.” I called to the Lord in my distress; the Lord answered by setting me free. The Lord is at my side, therefore I will not fear; what can anyone do to me? The Lord is at my side to help me; I will triumph over those who hate me. It is better to rely on the Lord  than to put any trust in flesh. It is better to rely on the Lord  than to put any trust in rulers. All the ungodly encompass me; in the Name of the Lord I will repel them. They hem me in, they hem me in on every side; in the name of the Lord I will repel them. They swarm about me like bees; they blaze like a fire of thorns; in the name of the Lord I will repel them. I was pressed so hard that I almost fell, but the Lord came to my help. The Lord is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation. There is a sound of exultation and victory in the tents of the righteous: “The right hand of the Lord has triumphed! the right hand of the Lord is exalted! the right hand of the Lord has triumphed!” I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord. The Lord has punished me sorely, but he did not hand me over to death. Open for me the gates of righteousness; I will enter them; I will offer thanks to the Lord. “This is the gate of the Lord; he who is righteous may enter.” I will give thanks to you, for you answered me and have become my salvation. The same stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This is the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes. On this day the Lord has acted; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Hosanna, Lord, hosanna! Lord, send us now success. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord; we bless you from the house of the Lord. God is the Lord; he has shined upon us; form a procession with branches up to the horns of the altar. “You are my God, and I will thank you; you are my God, and I will exalt you.” Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; * his mercy endures for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Old Testament Canticle: The Song of Moses & Miriam (from Exodus 15)

I will sing to the Lord, who has triumphed gloriously; • the horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea. The Lord is my strength and my song • and has become my salvation. This is my God whom I will praise • the God of my forebears whom I will exalt. The Lord is a warrior, • the Lord is his name. Your right hand, O Lord, is glorious in power: • your right hand, O Lord, shatters the enemy. At the blast of your nostrils, the sea covered them; • they sank as lead in the mighty waters. In your unfailing love, O Lord, • you lead the people whom you have redeemed, And by your invincible strength • you will guide them to your holy dwelling You will bring them in and plant them, O Lord, • in the sanctuary which your hands have established

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The First Lesson:

Exod. 12:1-14

The Lord said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt: This month shall mark for you the beginning of months; it shall be the first month of the year for you. Tell the whole congregation of Israel that on the tenth of this month they are to take a lamb for each family, a lamb for each household. If a household is too small for a whole lamb, it shall join its closest neighbor in obtaining one; the lamb shall be divided in proportion to the number of people who eat of it. Your lamb shall be without blemish, a year-old male; you may take it from the sheep or from the goats. You shall keep it until the fourteenth day of this month; then the whole assembled congregation of Israel shall slaughter it at twilight. They shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses in which they eat it. They shall eat the lamb that same night; they shall eat it roasted over the fire with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. Do not eat any of it raw or boiled in water, but roasted over the fire, with its head, legs, and inner organs. You shall let none of it remain until the morning; anything that remains until the morning you shall burn. This is how you shall eat it: your loins girded, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and you shall eat it hurriedly. It is the passover of the Lord. For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and I will strike down every firstborn in the land of Egypt, both human beings and animals; on all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments: I am the Lord. The blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you live: when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague shall destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt. This day shall be a day of remembrance for you. You shall celebrate it as a festival to the Lord; throughout your generations you shall observe it as a perpetual ordinance.

The Second Lesson:

John 1:1-18

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth. (John testified to him and cried out, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.'") From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father's heart, who has made him known.

Scripture Response

Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead and Christ shall give you light.

Gospel Canticle: The Benedictus (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

Easter Refrain The Lord is risen from the tomb who for our sakes hung upon the tree. Alleluia.

Blessèd be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant, David. Through his holy prophets, he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us; He promised to show mercy to our forebears, and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father, Abraham, to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight, all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Lord is risen from the tomb who for our sakes hung upon the tree. Alleluia.

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3: The Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

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4: The Prayers

On this day that the Lord has made, let us pray for the people he has redeemed.

• That those born to new life in the waters of baptism may know the power of Christ's resurrection, let us pray to the Lord: Lord, have mercy.

• That those who suffer pain and anguish may find healing and peace in the wounds of Christ, let us pray to the Lord: Lord, have mercy.

• That in the undying love of Christ, we may have union with all who have died in the faith of Christ, let us pray to the Lord: Lord, have mercy.

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others. 

Silence may be kept.

Let us commend the world, in which Christ rose from the dead, to the mercy and protection of God this day:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

O God, who for our redemption gave your only-begotten Son to the death of the cross, and by his glorious resurrection delivered us from the power of our enemy: Grant us so to die daily to sin, that we may evermore live with him in the joy of his resurrection; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The ConclusionConcluding Ascription (by Thomas Ken 1637-1711)

To God the Father, who loved us and made us accepted in the Beloved: To God the Son, who loved us and loosed us from our sins in his own blood: To God the Holy Spirit, who sheds the love of God abroad in our hearts: To the one true God be all love and all glory, for time and for eternity Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. (Alleluia. Alleluia.)  Thanks be to God. (Alleluia. Alleluia.) 

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EVENING PRAYER1: The Preparation

O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us.

You, O Lord, are my lamp: you turn our darkness into light.

Blessed are you, Sovereign Lord, the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to you be glory and praise for ever. From the deep waters of death you brought your people to new birth by raising your Son to life in triumph. [Through him dark death has been destroyed and radiant life is everywhere restored.] As you call us out of darkness into his marvelous light may our lives reflect his glory and our lips repeat the endless song. Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Blessed be God for ever.

Opening Canticle: Phos Hilaron (O Gracious Light)

O gracious light, pure brightness of the everliving Father in heaven, O Jesus Christ, holy and blessed! Now as we come to the setting of the sun, and our eyes behold the vesper light, we sing your praises, O God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. You are worthy at all times to be praised by happy voices, O Son of God, O Giver of Life, and to be glorified through all the worlds.

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2: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 104 Bless the Lord, O my soul; O Lord my God, how excellent is your greatness! you are clothed with majesty and splendor. You wrap yourself with light as with a cloak and spread out the heavens like a curtain. You lay the beams of your chambers in the waters above; you make the clouds your chariot; you ride on the wings of the wind. You make the winds your messengers and flames of fire your servants. You have set the earth upon its foundations, so that it never shall move at any time. You covered it with the Deep as with a mantle; the waters stood higher than the mountains. At your rebuke they fled; at the voice of your thunder they hastened away. They went up into the hills and down to the valleys beneath, to the places you had appointed for them. You set the limits that they should not pass; they shall not again cover the earth. You send the springs into the valleys; they flow between the mountains. All the beasts of the field drink their fill from them, and the wild asses quench their thirst. Beside them the birds of the air make their nests and sing among the branches. You water the mountains from your dwelling on high; the earth is fully satisfied by the fruit of your works. You make grass grow for flocks and herds and plants to serve mankind; That they may bring forth food from the earth, and wine to gladden our hearts, Oil to make a cheerful countenance, and bread to strengthen the heart. The trees of the Lord are full of sap, the cedars of Lebanon which he planted, In which the birds build their nests, and in whose tops the stork makes his dwelling. The high hills are a refuge for the mountain goats, and the stony cliffs for the rock badgers. You appointed the moon to mark the seasons, and the sun knows the time of its setting. You make darkness that it may be night, in which all the beasts of the forest prowl. The lions roar after their prey and seek their food from God. The sun rises, and they slip away and lay themselves down in their dens. Man goes forth to his work and to his labor until the evening. O Lord, how manifold are your works! in wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. Yonder is the great and wide sea with its living things too many to number, creatures both small and great. There move the ships, and there is that Leviathan, which you have made for the sport of it. All of them look to you to give them their food in due season. You give it to them; they gather it; you open your hand, and they are filled with good things. You hide your face, and they are terrified; you take away their breath, and they die and return to their dust. You send forth your Spirit, and they are created; and so you renew the face of the earth. May the glory of the Lord endure for ever; may the Lord rejoice in all his works. He looks at the earth and it trembles; he touches the mountains and they smoke. I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will praise my God while I have my being. May these words of mine please him; I will rejoice in the Lord. Let sinners be consumed out of the earth, and the wicked be no more. Bless the Lord, O my soul. * Hallelujah!

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

New Testament Canticle: A Song of Faith (from 1 Peter 1)

1 Blessed be the God and Father • of our Lord Jesus Christ! 2 By his great mercy we have been born anew to a living hope • through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 3 Into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled and unfading, • kept in heaven for you, 4 Who are being protected by the power of God through faith, • for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 5 You were ransomed from the futile ways of your ancestors • not with perishable things like silver or gold 6 But with the precious blood of Christ • like that of a lamb without spot or stain. 7 Through him you have confidence in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, • so that your faith and hope are set on God.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Lesson:

Isa. 51:9-11

Awake, awake, put on strength, O arm of the Lord! Awake, as in days of old, the generations of long ago! Was it not you who cut Rahab in pieces, who pierced the dragon? Was it not you who dried up the sea, the waters of the great deep; who made the depths of the sea a way for the redeemed to cross over? So the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

John 20:19-23

When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."

Scripture Response

The Lord is my strength and my song: he has become my salvation.

Gospel Canticle: The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55)

The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. Alleluia.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, The promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. Alleluia.

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3: The Prayers

To Christ, the Lamb who was slain, and who now lives in the glory of the Father, let us raise the voice of praise.

• Lord Jesus, you are the Amen, the faithful witness, the first of God's creation: Lord, have mercy.

• You search into the thoughts and affections of all your people: Lord, have mercy. 

• You reprove and chasten those whom you love: Lord, have mercy. 

• You open the eyes of the blind and set the prisoners free: Lord, have mercy.

• In your paschal victory, you have proclaimed the coming of the kingdom: Lord, have mercy. 

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others.  Silence may be kept.

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

O God, who for our redemption gave your only-begotten Son to the death of the cross, and by his glorious resurrection delivered us from the power of our enemy: Grant us so to die daily to sin, that we may evermore live with him in the joy of his resurrection; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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4: The ConclusionArmenian Orthodox Dismissal

Keep us in peace, O Christ our God, under the protection of your holy and venerable cross; save us from our enemies, visible and invisible, and count us worthy to glorify you with thanksgiving, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever, world without end. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. (Alleluia. Alleluia.) Thanks be to God. (Alleluia. Alleluia.)

MORNING PRAYER1: The Preparation

O Lord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Blessed are you, God of compassion and mercy, to you be praise and glory for ever! [In the darkness of our sin, your light breaks forth like the dawn and your healing springs up for deliverance.] As we rejoice in the gift of your saving help, sustain us with your bountiful Spirit and open our lips to sing your praise, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Blessed be God for ever!

Christ, though tempted like us, was without sin: O come, let us worship.

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Opening Canticle: A Song of Penitence (From Psalm 51)

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your loving-kindness; in your great compassion blot out my offenses. Wash me through and through from my wickedness and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you only have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight. And so you are justified when you speak* and upright in your judgement. [Indeed, I have been wicked from my birth, a sinner from my mother’s womb. For behold, you look for truth deep within me, and will make me understand wisdom secretly. Purge me from my sin and I shall be pure; wash me and I shall be clean indeed. Make me hear of joy and gladness, that the body you have broken may rejoice. Hide your face from my sins* and blot out all my iniquities.] Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence and take not your holy Spirit from me. Give me the joy of your saving help again and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit. I shall teach your ways to the wicked, and sinners shall return to you. Deliver me from death, O God, and my tongue shall sing of your righteousness, O God of my salvation. Open my lips, O Lord, and my mouth shall proclaim your praise. Had you desired it, I would have offered sacrifice, but you take no delight in burnt-offerings. The sacrifice of God is a troubled spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

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The Opening Prayer

The night has passed and the day lies open before us; let us pray with one heart and mind:

(Silence may be kept)

As we rejoice in the gift of this new day, so may the light of your presence, O God, set our hearts on fire with love for you; now and for ever. Amen.

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2: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 13 How long, O Lord? will you forget me for ever? how long will you hide your face from me? How long shall I have perplexity in my mind, and grief in my heart, day after day? how long shall my enemy triumph over me?  Look upon me and answer me, O Lord my God; give light to my eyes, lest I sleep in death;  Lest my enemy say, "I have prevailed over him,” and my foes rejoice that I have fallen.  But I put my trust in your mercy; my heart is joyful because of your saving help. I will sing to the Lord, for he has dealt with me richly; I will praise the Name of the Lord Most High.

Psalm 124 If the Lord had not been on our side, let Israel now say; If the Lord had not been on our side, when enemies rose up against us; Then would they have swallowed us up alive in their fierce anger toward us; Then would the waters have overwhelmed us and the torrent gone over us; Then would the raging waters have gone right over us. Blessed be the Lord! he has not given us over to be a prey for their teeth. We have escaped like a bird from the snare of the fowler; the snare is broken, and we have escaped. Our help is in the Name of the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.

Psalm 149 Hallelujah! Sing to the Lord a new song; sing his praise in the congregation of the faithful. Let Israel rejoice in his Maker; let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise his Name in the dance; let them sing praise to him with timbrel and harp. For the Lord takes pleasure in his people and adorns the poor with victory. Let the faithful rejoice in triumph; let them be joyful on their beds. Let the praises of God be in their throat and a two-edged sword in their hand; To wreak vengeance on the nations and punishment on the peoples; To bind their kings in chains and their nobles with links of iron; To inflict on them the judgment decreed; this is glory for all his faithful people. Hallelujah!

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The First Lesson:

If there are two Scripture Readings, the first may be read here, or both may be read after the second canticle. 

Lam. 3:37-58

Who can command and have it done, if the Lord has not ordained it? Is it not from the mouth of the Most High that good and bad come? Why should any who draw breath complain about the punishment of their sins? Let us test and examine our ways, and return to the Lord. Let us lift up our hearts as well as our hands to God in heaven. We have transgressed and rebelled, and you have not forgiven. You have wrapped yourself with anger and pursued us, killing without pity; you have wrapped yourself with a cloud so that no prayer can pass through. You have made us filth and rubbish among the peoples. All our enemies have opened their mouths against us; panic and pitfall have come upon us, devastation and destruction. My eyes flow with rivers of tears because of the destruction of my people. My eyes will flow without ceasing, without respite, until the Lord from heaven looks down and sees. My eyes cause me grief at the fate of all the young women in my city. Those who were my enemies without cause have hunted me like a bird; they flung me alive into a pit and hurled stones on me; water closed over my head; I said, "I am lost." I called on your name, O Lord, from the depths of the pit; you heard my plea, "Do not close your ear to my cry for help, but give me relief!" You came near when I called on you; you said, "Do not fear!" You have taken up my cause, O Lord, you have redeemed my life.

Canticle 2: A Song of New Creation (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

‘I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, whom I have chosen.’ Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, ‘Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. ‘Behold, I make all things new; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? ‘I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, ‘The people whom I formed for myself, that they might declare my praise.’

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

The Second Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

Heb. 4:1-16

Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest is still open, let us take care that none of you should seem to have failed to reach it. For indeed the good news came to us just as to them; but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened. For we who have believed enter that rest, just as God has said, "As in my anger I swore, 'They shall not enter my rest,'" though his works were finished at the foundation of the world. For in one place it speaks about the seventh day as follows, "And God rested on the seventh day from all his works." And again in this place it says, "They shall not enter my rest." Since therefore it remains open for some to enter it, and those who formerly received the good news failed to enter because of disobedience, again he sets a certain day-- "today"-- saying through David much later, in the words already quoted, "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts." For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not speak later about another day. So then, a sabbath rest still remains for the people of God; for those who enter God's rest also cease from their labors as God did from his. Let us therefore make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one may fall through such disobedience as theirs. Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And before him no creature is hidden, but all are naked and laid bare to the eyes of the one to whom we must render an account. Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Gospel Canticle: The Benedictus (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

Blessèd be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant, David. Through his holy prophets, he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us; He promised to show mercy to our forebears, and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father, Abraham, to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight, all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

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3: The Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

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4: The Prayers

With faith and love and in union with Christ, let us offer our prayer before the throne of grace.

• Have mercy on your people, for whom your Son laid down his life. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring healing and wholeness to people and nations, and have pity on those torn apart by division. Lord, have mercy.

• Strengthen all who are persecuted for your name’s sake, and deliver them from evil. Lord, have mercy.

• Look in mercy upon all who suffer, and hear those who cry out in pain and desolation. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring comfort to the dying, and gladden their hearts with the power of your glory. Lord, have mercy.

• Give rest to the departed and bring them, with your saints, to glory everlasting. Lord, have mercy.

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others. 

Silence may be kept.

As we rejoice in the triumph of the cross, we pray that the whole of creation may find fulfillment in the eternal kingdom of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

O God, Creator of heaven and earth: Grant that, as the crucified body of your dear Son was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath, so we may await with him the coming of the third day, and rise with him to newness of life; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The Conclusion

May God our Redeemer show us compassion and love.  Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

—

EVENING PRAYER1: Confession

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept. Officiant and People together

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life.  Amen.

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2: The Preparation

O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us.

Let your ways be known upon earth Your saving power among the nations.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Opening Canticle: A Song of Entreaty (From Psalm 143)

Lord, hear my prayer, answer me in your righteousness. Enter not into judgement with your servant, for in your sight shall no one living be justified. My spirit faints within me; my heart within me is desolate. I spread out my hands to you; my soul gasps to you like a thirsty land. O Lord, make haste to answer me; my spirit fails me; do not hide your face from me. Let me hear of your loving-kindness in the morning, for I put my trust in you. Show me the road that I must walk, for I lift up my soul to you. Teach me to do what pleases you, for you are my God; let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Revive me, O Lord, for your name’s sake; for your righteousness’ sake, bring me out of trouble.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Opening Prayer

Stir up in us, O God, the fire of your love, that we may be cleansed of all our sins and so be made ready to come into your presence, singing your praises now and for ever. Amen.

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3: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 31 In you, O Lord, have I taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. Incline your ear to me; make haste to deliver me. Be my strong rock, a castle to keep me safe, for you are my crag and my stronghold; for the sake of your Name, lead me and guide me.  Take me out of the net that they have secretly set for me, for you are my tower of strength. Into your hands I commend my spirit, for you have redeemed me, O Lord, O God of truth. I hate those who cling to worthless idols, and I put my trust in the Lord. I will rejoice and be glad because of your mercy; for you have seen my affliction; you know my distress.  You have not shut me up in the power of the enemy; you have set my feet in an open place. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am in trouble; my eye is consumed with sorrow, and also my throat and my belly.  For my life is wasted with grief, and my years with sighing; my strength fails me because of affliction, and my bones are consumed.  I have become a reproach to all my enemies and even to my neighbors, a dismay to those of my acquaintance; when they see me in the street they avoid me. I am forgotten like a dead man, out of mind; I am as useless as a broken pot.  For I have heard the whispering of the crowd; fear is all around; they put their heads together against me; they plot to take my life. But as for me, I have trusted in you, O Lord. I have said, “You are my God. My times are in your hand; rescue me from the hand of my enemies, and from those who persecute me. Make your face to shine upon your servant, and in your loving-kindness save me.” Lord, let me not be ashamed for having called upon you; rather, let the wicked be put to shame; let them be silent in the grave. Let the lying lips be silenced which speak against the righteous, haughtily, disdainfully, and with contempt.  How great is your goodness, O Lord! which you have laid up for those who fear you; which you have done in the sight of all for those who put their trust in you. You hide them in the covert of your presence from those who slander them; you keep them in your shelter from the strife of tongues. Blessed be the Lord! for he has shown me the wonders of his love in a besieged city. Yet I said in my alarm, “I have been cut off from the sight of your eyes.” Nevertheless, you heard the sound of my entreaty when I cried out to you. Love the Lord, all you who worship him; the Lord protects the faithful, but repays to the full those who act haughtily. Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Second Canticle: The Song of Christ's Glory (Philippians 2. 5b-11)

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

Christ Jesus was in the form of God, but he did not cling to equality with God. He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, and was born in our human likeness. Being found in human form, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross; Therefore, God has highly exalted him, and bestowed on him the name above every name, That at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

The Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

Rom. 8:1-11

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do: by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and to deal with sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, so that the just requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For this reason the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law-- indeed it cannot, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God. But you are not in the flesh; you are in the Spirit, since the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his Spirit that dwells in you.

Gospel Canticle: The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55)

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, The promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

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4: The Prayers

In the love of God, let us complete our evening sacrifice of praise.

• For the unity and peace of the holy Church of God throughout the world: Lord, have mercy.

• For the peace and stability of all peoples and for those in authority: Lord, have mercy. 

• For our own country and its national life and for all who dwell among us: Lord, have mercy. 

• For a blessing on our homes, for our relations and friends and all whom we love: Lord, have mercy.

• For the sick and the suffering and for all who minister to their needs: Lord, have mercy. 

• For all who sleep in Christ, that Christ will remember them in his heavenly kingdom: Lord, have mercy. 

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others.  Silence may be kept.

Rejoicing in the fellowship of the blessèd Virgin Mary, (Saint N.) and all the saints, let us commend ourselves into the mighty hands of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

O God, Creator of heaven and earth: Grant that, as the crucified body of your dear Son was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath, so we may await with him the coming of the third day, and rise with him to newness of life; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The ConclusionCHRISTARAKSHA (from the BCP of the Church of India, Pakistan, Burma and Ceylon)

May the cross of the Son of God, which is mightier than all the hosts of Satan and more glorious than all the hosts of heaven, abide with you in your going out and your coming in. By day and night, at morning and at evening, at all times and in all places     may it protect and defend you. From the wrath of evildoers, from the assaults of evil spirits, from foes visible and invisible, from the snares of the devil, from all passions that beguile the soul and body: may it guard, protect and deliver you. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

MORNING PRAYER1: The Preparation

O Lord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Blessed are you, God of compassion and mercy, to you be praise and glory for ever! [In the darkness of our sin, your light breaks forth like the dawn and your healing springs up for deliverance.] As we rejoice in the gift of your saving help, sustain us with your bountiful Spirit and open our lips to sing your praise, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Blessed be God for ever!

Christ, though tempted like us, was without sin: O come, let us worship.

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Opening Canticle: A Song of Penitence (From Psalm 51)

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your loving-kindness; in your great compassion blot out my offenses. Wash me through and through from my wickedness and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you only have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight. And so you are justified when you speak* and upright in your judgement. [Indeed, I have been wicked from my birth, a sinner from my mother’s womb. For behold, you look for truth deep within me, and will make me understand wisdom secretly. Purge me from my sin and I shall be pure; wash me and I shall be clean indeed. Make me hear of joy and gladness, that the body you have broken may rejoice. Hide your face from my sins* and blot out all my iniquities.] Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence and take not your holy Spirit from me. Give me the joy of your saving help again and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit. I shall teach your ways to the wicked, and sinners shall return to you. Deliver me from death, O God, and my tongue shall sing of your righteousness, O God of my salvation. Open my lips, O Lord, and my mouth shall proclaim your praise. Had you desired it, I would have offered sacrifice, but you take no delight in burnt-offerings. The sacrifice of God is a troubled spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

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The Opening Prayer

The night has passed and the day lies open before us; let us pray with one heart and mind:

(Silence may be kept)

As we rejoice in the gift of this new day, so may the light of your presence, O God, set our hearts on fire with love for you; now and for ever. Amen.

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2: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 39 I said, “I will keep watch upon my ways, so that I do not offend with my tongue. I will put a muzzle on my mouth while the wicked are in my presence.” So I held my tongue and said nothing; I refrained from rash words; but my pain became unbearable.  My heart was hot within me; while I pondered, the fire burst into flame; I spoke out with my tongue: Lord, let me know my end and the number of my days, so that I may know how short my life is. You have given me a mere handful of days, and my lifetime is as nothing in your sight; truly, even those who stand erect are but a puff of wind. We walk about like a shadow, and in vain we are in turmoil; we heap up riches and cannot tell who will gather them. And now, what is my hope? O Lord, my hope is in you. Deliver me from all my transgressions and do not make me the taunt of the fool. I fell silent and did not open my mouth, for surely it was you that did it. Take your affliction from me; I am worn down by the blows of your hand. With rebukes for sin you punish us; like a moth you eat away all that is dear to us; truly, everyone is but a puff of wind. Hear my prayer, O Lord, and give ear to my cry; hold not your peace at my tears. For I am but a sojourner with you, a wayfarer, as all my forebears were. Turn your gaze from me, that I may be glad again, before I go my way and am no more.

Psalm 147:1-12 Hallelujah! How good it is to sing praises to our God! how pleasant it is to honor him with praise! The Lord rebuilds Jerusalem; he gathers the exiles of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. He counts the number of the stars and calls them all by their names. Great is our Lord and mighty in power; there is no limit to his wisdom. The Lord lifts up the lowly, but casts the wicked to the ground. Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make music to our God upon the harp. He covers the heavens with clouds and prepares rain for the earth; He makes grass to grow upon the mountains and green plants to serve mankind. He provides food for flocks and herds and for the young ravens when they cry. He is not impressed by the might of a horse; he has no pleasure in the strength of a man; But the Lord has pleasure in those who fear him, in those who await his gracious favor.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The First Lesson:

If there are two Scripture Readings, the first may be read here, or both may be read after the second canticle. 

Lam. 3:1-9,19-33

I am one who has seen affliction under the rod of God's wrath; he has driven and brought me into darkness without any light; against me alone he turns his hand, again and again, all day long. He has made my flesh and my skin waste away, and broken my bones; he has besieged and enveloped me with bitterness and tribulation; he has made me sit in darkness like the dead of long ago. He has walled me about so that I cannot escape; he has put heavy chains on me; though I call and cry for help, he shuts out my prayer; he has blocked my ways with hewn stones, he has made my paths crooked. The thought of my affliction and my homelessness is wormwood and gall! My soul continually thinks of it and is bowed down within me. But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. "The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him." The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul that seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. It is good for one to bear the yoke in youth, to sit alone in silence when the Lord has imposed it, to put one's mouth to the dust (there may yet be hope), to give one's cheek to the smiter, and be filled with insults. For the Lord will not reject forever. Although he causes grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; for he does not willingly afflict or grieve anyone.

Canticle 2: A Song of New Creation (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

‘I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, whom I have chosen.’ Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, ‘Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. ‘Behold, I make all things new; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? ‘I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, ‘The people whom I formed for myself, that they might declare my praise.’

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

The Second Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

John 13:36-38

Simon Peter said to him, "Lord, where are you going?" Jesus answered, "Where I am going, you cannot follow me now; but you will follow afterward." Peter said to him, "Lord, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you." Jesus answered, "Will you lay down your life for me? Very truly, I tell you, before the cock crows, you will have denied me three times.

Gospel Canticle: The Benedictus (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

Blessèd be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant, David. Through his holy prophets, he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us; He promised to show mercy to our forebears, and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father, Abraham, to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight, all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

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3: The Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

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4: The Prayers

With faith and love and in union with Christ, let us offer our prayer before the throne of grace.

• Have mercy on your people, for whom your Son laid down his life. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring healing and wholeness to people and nations, and have pity on those torn apart by division. Lord, have mercy.

• Strengthen all who are persecuted for your name’s sake, and deliver them from evil. Lord, have mercy.

• Look in mercy upon all who suffer, and hear those who cry out in pain and desolation. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring comfort to the dying, and gladden their hearts with the power of your glory. Lord, have mercy.

• Give rest to the departed and bring them, with your saints, to glory everlasting. Lord, have mercy.

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others. 

Silence may be kept.

As we rejoice in the triumph of the cross, we pray that the whole of creation may find fulfillment in the eternal kingdom of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty God, we pray you graciously to behold this your family, for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed, and given into the hands of sinners, and to suffer death upon the cross; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The Conclusion

May God our Redeemer show us compassion and love.  Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

—

EVENING PRAYER1: Confession

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept. Officiant and People together

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life.  Amen.

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2: The Preparation

O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us.

Let your ways be known upon earth Your saving power among the nations.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Opening Canticle: A Song of Entreaty (From Psalm 143)

Lord, hear my prayer, answer me in your righteousness. Enter not into judgement with your servant, for in your sight shall no one living be justified. My spirit faints within me; my heart within me is desolate. I spread out my hands to you; my soul gasps to you like a thirsty land. O Lord, make haste to answer me; my spirit fails me; do not hide your face from me. Let me hear of your loving-kindness in the morning, for I put my trust in you. Show me the road that I must walk, for I lift up my soul to you. Teach me to do what pleases you, for you are my God; let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Revive me, O Lord, for your name’s sake; for your righteousness’ sake, bring me out of trouble.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Opening Prayer

Stir up in us, O God, the fire of your love, that we may be cleansed of all our sins and so be made ready to come into your presence, singing your praises now and for ever. Amen.

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3: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 69:1-23, 31-37 Save me, O God, for the waters have risen up to my neck. I am sinking in deep mire, and there is no firm ground for my feet. I have come into deep waters, and the torrent washes over me. I have grown weary with my crying; my throat is inflamed; my eyes have failed from looking for my God. Those who hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of my head; my lying foes who would destroy me are mighty. Must I then give back what I never stole? O God, you know my foolishness, and my faults are not hidden from you. Let not those who hope in you be put to shame through me, Lord God of hosts; let not those who seek you be disgraced because of me, O God of Israel. Surely, for your sake have I suffered reproach, and shame has covered my face. I have become a stranger to my own kindred, an alien to my mother’s children. Zeal for your house has eaten me up; the scorn of those who scorn you has fallen upon me. I humbled myself with fasting, but that was turned to my reproach. I put on sack-cloth also, and became a byword among them. Those who sit at the gate murmur against me, and the drunkards make songs about me. But as for me, this is my prayer to you, at the time you have set, O Lord: “In your great mercy, O God, answer me with your unfailing help. Save me from the mire; do not let me sink; let me be rescued from those who hate me and out of the deep waters. Let not the torrent of waters wash over me, neither let the deep swallow me up; do not let the Pit shut its mouth upon me. Answer me, O Lord, for your love is kind; in your great compassion, turn to me.” “Hide not your face from your servant; be swift and answer me, for I am in distress. Draw near to me and redeem me; because of my enemies deliver me. You know my reproach, my shame, and my dishonor; my adversaries are all in your sight.” Reproach has broken my heart, and it cannot be healed; I looked for sympathy, but there was none, for comforters, but I could find no one. They gave me gall to eat, and when I was thirsty, they gave me vinegar to drink. - As for me, I am afflicted and in pain; your help, O God, will lift me up on high. I will praise the Name of God in song; I will proclaim his greatness with thanksgiving. This will please the Lord more than an offering of oxen, more than bullocks with horns and hoofs. The afflicted shall see and be glad; you who seek God, your heart shall live. For the Lord listens to the needy, and his prisoners he does not despise. Let the heavens and the earth praise him, the seas and all that moves in them; For God will save Zion and rebuild the cities of Judah; they shall live there and have it in possession.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Second Canticle: The Song of Christ's Glory (Philippians 2. 5b-11)

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

Christ Jesus was in the form of God, but he did not cling to equality with God. He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, and was born in our human likeness. Being found in human form, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross; Therefore, God has highly exalted him, and bestowed on him the name above every name, That at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

The Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

1 Peter 1:10-20

Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that was to be yours made careful search and inquiry, inquiring about the person or time that the Spirit of Christ within them indicated when it testified in advance to the sufferings destined for Christ and the subsequent glory. It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in regard to the things that have now been announced to you through those who brought you good news by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven-- things into which angels long to look! Therefore prepare your minds for action; discipline yourselves; set all your hope on the grace that Jesus Christ will bring you when he is revealed. Like obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires that you formerly had in ignorance. Instead, as he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct; for it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy." If you invoke as Father the one who judges all people impartially according to their deeds, live in reverent fear during the time of your exile. You know that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish. He was destined before the foundation of the world, but was revealed at the end of the ages for your sake.

John 19:38-42

After these things, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, though a secret one because of his fear of the Jews, asked Pilate to let him take away the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him permission; so he came and removed his body. Nicodemus, who had at first come to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds. They took the body of Jesus and wrapped it with the spices in linen cloths, according to the burial custom of the Jews. Now there was a garden in the place where he was crucified, and in the garden there was a new tomb in which no one had ever been laid. And so, because it was the Jewish day of Preparation, and the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.

Gospel Canticle: The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55)

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, The promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

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4: The Prayers

In the love of God, let us complete our evening sacrifice of praise.

• For the unity and peace of the holy Church of God throughout the world: Lord, have mercy.

• For the peace and stability of all peoples and for those in authority: Lord, have mercy. 

• For our own country and its national life and for all who dwell among us: Lord, have mercy. 

• For a blessing on our homes, for our relations and friends and all whom we love: Lord, have mercy.

• For the sick and the suffering and for all who minister to their needs: Lord, have mercy. 

• For all who sleep in Christ, that Christ will remember them in his heavenly kingdom: Lord, have mercy. 

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others.  Silence may be kept.

Rejoicing in the fellowship of the blessèd Virgin Mary, (Saint N.) and all the saints, let us commend ourselves into the mighty hands of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty God, we pray you graciously to behold this your family, for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed, and given into the hands of sinners, and to suffer death upon the cross; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The ConclusionCHRISTARAKSHA (from the BCP of the Church of India, Pakistan, Burma and Ceylon)

May the cross of the Son of God, which is mightier than all the hosts of Satan and more glorious than all the hosts of heaven, abide with you in your going out and your coming in. By day and night, at morning and at evening, at all times and in all places     may it protect and defend you. From the wrath of evildoers, from the assaults of evil spirits, from foes visible and invisible, from the snares of the devil, from all passions that beguile the soul and body: may it guard, protect and deliver you. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

MORNING PRAYER1: The Preparation

O Lord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Blessed are you, God of compassion and mercy, to you be praise and glory for ever! [In the darkness of our sin, your light breaks forth like the dawn and your healing springs up for deliverance.] As we rejoice in the gift of your saving help, sustain us with your bountiful Spirit and open our lips to sing your praise, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Blessed be God for ever!

Christ, though tempted like us, was without sin: O come, let us worship.

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Opening Canticle: A Song of Penitence (From Psalm 51)

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your loving-kindness; in your great compassion blot out my offenses. Wash me through and through from my wickedness and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you only have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight. And so you are justified when you speak* and upright in your judgement. [Indeed, I have been wicked from my birth, a sinner from my mother’s womb. For behold, you look for truth deep within me, and will make me understand wisdom secretly. Purge me from my sin and I shall be pure; wash me and I shall be clean indeed. Make me hear of joy and gladness, that the body you have broken may rejoice. Hide your face from my sins* and blot out all my iniquities.] Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence and take not your holy Spirit from me. Give me the joy of your saving help again and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit. I shall teach your ways to the wicked, and sinners shall return to you. Deliver me from death, O God, and my tongue shall sing of your righteousness, O God of my salvation. Open my lips, O Lord, and my mouth shall proclaim your praise. Had you desired it, I would have offered sacrifice, but you take no delight in burnt-offerings. The sacrifice of God is a troubled spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

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The Opening Prayer

The night has passed and the day lies open before us; let us pray with one heart and mind:

(Silence may be kept)

As we rejoice in the gift of this new day, so may the light of your presence, O God, set our hearts on fire with love for you; now and for ever. Amen.

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2: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 3 Lord, how many adversaries I have! how many there are who rise up against me!  How many there are who say of me, “There is no help for him in his God.”  But you, O Lord, are a shield about me; you are my glory, the one who lifts up my head.  I call aloud upon the Lord, and he answers me from his holy hill; I lie down and go to sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. I do not fear the multitudes of people who set themselves against me all around.  Rise up, O Lord; set me free, O my God; surely, you will strike all my enemies across the face, you will break the teeth of the wicked. Deliverance belongs to the Lord. Your blessing be upon your people!

Psalm 6 Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger; do not punish me in your wrath. Have pity on me, Lord, for I am weak; heal me, Lord, for my bones are racked. My spirit shakes with terror; how long, O Lord, how long? Turn, O Lord, and deliver me; save me for your mercy's sake. For in death no one remembers you; and who will give you thanks in the grave?I grow weary because of my groaning; every night I drench my bed and flood my couch with tears. My eyes are wasted with grief and worn away because of all my enemies. Depart from me, all evildoers, for the Lord has heard the sound of my weeping. The Lord has heard my supplication; the Lord accepts my prayer. All my enemies shall be confounded and quake with fear; they shall turn back and suddenly be put to shame.

Psalm 147:13-End Worship the Lord, O Jerusalem; praise your God, O Zion; For he has strengthened the bars of your gates; he has blessed your children within you. He has established peace on your borders; he satisfies you with the finest wheat. He sends out his command to the earth, and his word runs very swiftly. He gives snow like wool; he scatters hoarfrost like ashes. He scatters his hail like bread crumbs; who can stand against his cold? He sends forth his word and melts them; he blows with his wind, and the waters flow. He declares his word to Jacob, his statutes and his judgments to Israel. He has not done so to any other nation; to them he has not revealed his judgments. Hallelujah!

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The First Lesson:

If there are two Scripture Readings, the first may be read here, or both may be read after the second canticle. 

Lam. 2:10-18

The elders of daughter Zion sit on the ground in silence; they have thrown dust on their heads and put on sackcloth; the young girls of Jerusalem have bowed their heads to the ground. My eyes are spent with weeping; my stomach churns; my bile is poured out on the ground because of the destruction of my people, because infants and babes faint in the streets of the city. They cry to their mothers, "Where is bread and wine?" as they faint like the wounded in the streets of the city, as their life is poured out on their mothers' bosom. What can I say for you, to what compare you, O daughter Jerusalem? To what can I liken you, that I may comfort you, O virgin daughter Zion? For vast as the sea is your ruin; who can heal you? Your prophets have seen for you false and deceptive visions; they have not exposed your iniquity to restore your fortunes, but have seen oracles for you that are false and misleading. All who pass along the way clap their hands at you; they hiss and wag their heads at daughter Jerusalem; "Is this the city that was called the perfection of beauty, the joy of all the earth?" All your enemies open their mouths against you; they hiss, they gnash their teeth, they cry: "We have devoured her! Ah, this is the day we longed for; at last we have seen it!" The Lord has done what he purposed, he has carried out his threat; as he ordained long ago, he has demolished without pity; he has made the enemy rejoice over you, and exalted the might of your foes. Cry aloud to the Lord! O wall of daughter Zion! Let tears stream down like a torrent day and night! Give yourself no rest, your eyes no respite!

Canticle 2: A Song of New Creation (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

‘I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, whom I have chosen.’ Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, ‘Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. ‘Behold, I make all things new; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? ‘I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, ‘The people whom I formed for myself, that they might declare my praise.’

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

The Second Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

Mark 14:12-25

On the first day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover lamb is sacrificed, his disciples said to him, "Where do you want us to go and make the preparations for you to eat the Passover?" So he sent two of his disciples, saying to them, "Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you; follow him, and wherever he enters, say to the owner of the house, 'The Teacher asks, Where is my guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?' He will show you a large room upstairs, furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there." So the disciples set out and went to the city, and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal. When it was evening, he came with the twelve. And when they had taken their places and were eating, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me." They began to be distressed and to say to him one after another, "Surely, not I?" He said to them, "It is one of the twelve, one who is dipping bread into the bowl with me. For the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that one by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that one not to have been born." While they were eating, he took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to them, and said, "Take; this is my body." Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, and all of them drank from it. He said to them, "This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. Truly I tell you, I will never again drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God."

Gospel Canticle: The Benedictus (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

Blessèd be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant, David. Through his holy prophets, he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us; He promised to show mercy to our forebears, and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father, Abraham, to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight, all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

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3: The Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

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4: The Prayers

With faith and love and in union with Christ, let us offer our prayer before the throne of grace.

• Have mercy on your people, for whom your Son laid down his life. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring healing and wholeness to people and nations, and have pity on those torn apart by division. Lord, have mercy.

• Strengthen all who are persecuted for your name’s sake, and deliver them from evil. Lord, have mercy.

• Look in mercy upon all who suffer, and hear those who cry out in pain and desolation. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring comfort to the dying, and gladden their hearts with the power of your glory. Lord, have mercy.

• Give rest to the departed and bring them, with your saints, to glory everlasting. Lord, have mercy.

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others. 

Silence may be kept.

As we rejoice in the triumph of the cross, we pray that the whole of creation may find fulfillment in the eternal kingdom of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty Father, whose dear Son, on the night before he suffered, instituted the Sacrament of his Body and Blood: Mercifully grant that we may receive it thankfully in remembrance of Jesus Christ our Lord, who in these holy mysteries gives us a pledge of eternal life; and who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The Conclusion

May God our Redeemer show us compassion and love.  Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

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EVENING PRAYER1: Confession

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept. Officiant and People together

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life.  Amen.

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2: The Preparation

O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us.

Let your ways be known upon earth Your saving power among the nations.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Opening Canticle: A Song of Entreaty (From Psalm 143)

Lord, hear my prayer, answer me in your righteousness. Enter not into judgement with your servant, for in your sight shall no one living be justified. My spirit faints within me; my heart within me is desolate. I spread out my hands to you; my soul gasps to you like a thirsty land. O Lord, make haste to answer me; my spirit fails me; do not hide your face from me. Let me hear of your loving-kindness in the morning, for I put my trust in you. Show me the road that I must walk, for I lift up my soul to you. Teach me to do what pleases you, for you are my God; let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Revive me, O Lord, for your name’s sake; for your righteousness’ sake, bring me out of trouble.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Opening Prayer

Stir up in us, O God, the fire of your love, that we may be cleansed of all our sins and so be made ready to come into your presence, singing your praises now and for ever. Amen.

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3: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 90 Lord, you have been our refuge from one generation to another.  Before the mountains were brought forth, or the land and the earth were born, from age to age you are God. You turn us back to the dust and say, “Go back, O child of earth.” For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it is past and like a watch in the night. You sweep us away like a dream; we fade away suddenly like the grass. In the morning it is green and flourishes; in the evening it is dried up and withered. For we consume away in your displeasure; we are afraid because of your wrathful indignation. Our iniquities you have set before you, and our secret sins in the light of your countenance. When you are angry, all our days are gone; we bring our years to an end like a sigh. The span of our life is seventy years, perhaps in strength even eighty; yet the sum of them is but labor and sorrow, for they pass away quickly and we are gone. Who regards the power of your wrath? who rightly fears your indignation? So teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts to wisdom. Return, O Lord; how long will you tarry? be gracious to your servants. Satisfy us by your loving-kindness in the morning; so shall we rejoice and be glad all the days of our life. Make us glad by the measure of the days that you afflicted us and the years in which we suffered adversity. Show your servants your works and your splendor to their children. May the graciousness of the Lord our God be upon us; prosper the work of our hands; prosper our handiwork.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Second Canticle: The Song of Christ's Glory (Philippians 2. 5b-11)

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

Christ Jesus was in the form of God, but he did not cling to equality with God. He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, and was born in our human likeness. Being found in human form, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross; Therefore, God has highly exalted him, and bestowed on him the name above every name, That at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

The Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

1 Cor. 10:14-17, 11:27-32

Therefore, my dear friends, flee from the worship of idols. I speak as to sensible people; judge for yourselves what I say. The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a sharing in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a sharing in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be answerable for the body and blood of the Lord. Examine yourselves, and only then eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For all who eat and drink without discerning the body, eat and drink judgment against themselves. For this reason many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. But if we judged ourselves, we would not be judged. But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.

Gospel Canticle: The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55)

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, The promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

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4: The Prayers

In the love of God, let us complete our evening sacrifice of praise.

• For the unity and peace of the holy Church of God throughout the world: Lord, have mercy.

• For the peace and stability of all peoples and for those in authority: Lord, have mercy. 

• For our own country and its national life and for all who dwell among us: Lord, have mercy. 

• For a blessing on our homes, for our relations and friends and all whom we love: Lord, have mercy.

• For the sick and the suffering and for all who minister to their needs: Lord, have mercy. 

• For all who sleep in Christ, that Christ will remember them in his heavenly kingdom: Lord, have mercy. 

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others.  Silence may be kept.

Rejoicing in the fellowship of the blessèd Virgin Mary, (Saint N.) and all the saints, let us commend ourselves into the mighty hands of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty Father, whose dear Son, on the night before he suffered, instituted the Sacrament of his Body and Blood: Mercifully grant that we may receive it thankfully in remembrance of Jesus Christ our Lord, who in these holy mysteries gives us a pledge of eternal life; and who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The ConclusionCHRISTARAKSHA (from the BCP of the Church of India, Pakistan, Burma and Ceylon)

May the cross of the Son of God, which is mightier than all the hosts of Satan and more glorious than all the hosts of heaven, abide with you in your going out and your coming in. By day and night, at morning and at evening, at all times and in all places     may it protect and defend you. From the wrath of evildoers, from the assaults of evil spirits, from foes visible and invisible, from the snares of the devil, from all passions that beguile the soul and body: may it guard, protect and deliver you. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

MORNING PRAYER1: The Preparation

O Lord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Blessed are you, God of compassion and mercy, to you be praise and glory for ever! [In the darkness of our sin, your light breaks forth like the dawn and your healing springs up for deliverance.] As we rejoice in the gift of your saving help, sustain us with your bountiful Spirit and open our lips to sing your praise, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Blessed be God for ever!

Christ, though tempted like us, was without sin: O come, let us worship.

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Opening Canticle: A Song of Penitence (From Psalm 51)

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your loving-kindness; in your great compassion blot out my offenses. Wash me through and through from my wickedness and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you only have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight. And so you are justified when you speak* and upright in your judgement. [Indeed, I have been wicked from my birth, a sinner from my mother’s womb. For behold, you look for truth deep within me, and will make me understand wisdom secretly. Purge me from my sin and I shall be pure; wash me and I shall be clean indeed. Make me hear of joy and gladness, that the body you have broken may rejoice. Hide your face from my sins* and blot out all my iniquities.] Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence and take not your holy Spirit from me. Give me the joy of your saving help again and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit. I shall teach your ways to the wicked, and sinners shall return to you. Deliver me from death, O God, and my tongue shall sing of your righteousness, O God of my salvation. Open my lips, O Lord, and my mouth shall proclaim your praise. Had you desired it, I would have offered sacrifice, but you take no delight in burnt-offerings. The sacrifice of God is a troubled spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

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The Opening Prayer

The night has passed and the day lies open before us; let us pray with one heart and mind:

(Silence may be kept)

As we rejoice in the gift of this new day, so may the light of your presence, O God, set our hearts on fire with love for you; now and for ever. Amen.

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2: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 3 Lord, how many adversaries I have! how many there are who rise up against me!  How many there are who say of me, “There is no help for him in his God.”  But you, O Lord, are a shield about me; you are my glory, the one who lifts up my head.  I call aloud upon the Lord, and he answers me from his holy hill; I lie down and go to sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. I do not fear the multitudes of people who set themselves against me all around.  Rise up, O Lord; set me free, O my God; surely, you will strike all my enemies across the face, you will break the teeth of the wicked. Deliverance belongs to the Lord. Your blessing be upon your people!

Psalm 6 Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger; do not punish me in your wrath. Have pity on me, Lord, for I am weak; heal me, Lord, for my bones are racked. My spirit shakes with terror; how long, O Lord, how long? Turn, O Lord, and deliver me; save me for your mercy's sake. For in death no one remembers you; and who will give you thanks in the grave?I grow weary because of my groaning; every night I drench my bed and flood my couch with tears. My eyes are wasted with grief and worn away because of all my enemies. Depart from me, all evildoers, for the Lord has heard the sound of my weeping. The Lord has heard my supplication; the Lord accepts my prayer. All my enemies shall be confounded and quake with fear; they shall turn back and suddenly be put to shame.

Psalm 147:13-End Worship the Lord, O Jerusalem; praise your God, O Zion; For he has strengthened the bars of your gates; he has blessed your children within you. He has established peace on your borders; he satisfies you with the finest wheat. He sends out his command to the earth, and his word runs very swiftly. He gives snow like wool; he scatters hoarfrost like ashes. He scatters his hail like bread crumbs; who can stand against his cold? He sends forth his word and melts them; he blows with his wind, and the waters flow. He declares his word to Jacob, his statutes and his judgments to Israel. He has not done so to any other nation; to them he has not revealed his judgments. Hallelujah!

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The First Lesson:

If there are two Scripture Readings, the first may be read here, or both may be read after the second canticle. 

Lam. 2:1-9, 14-17

How the Lord in his anger has humiliated daughter Zion! He has thrown down from heaven to earth the splendor of Israel; he has not remembered his footstool in the day of his anger. The Lord has destroyed without mercy all the dwellings of Jacob; in his wrath he has broken down the strongholds of daughter Judah; he has brought down to the ground in dishonor the kingdom and its rulers. He has cut down in fierce anger all the might of Israel; he has withdrawn his right hand from them in the face of the enemy; he has burned like a flaming fire in Jacob, consuming all around. He has bent his bow like an enemy, with his right hand set like a foe; he has killed all in whom we took pride in the tent of daughter Zion; he has poured out his fury like fire. The Lord has become like an enemy; he has destroyed Israel; He has destroyed all its palaces, laid in ruins its strongholds, and multiplied in daughter Judah mourning and lamentation. He has broken down his booth like a garden, he has destroyed his tabernacle; the Lord has abolished in Zion festival and sabbath, and in his fierce indignation has spurned king and priest. The Lord has scorned his altar, disowned his sanctuary; he has delivered into the hand of the enemy the walls of her palaces; a clamor was raised in the house of the Lord as on a day of festival. The Lord determined to lay in ruins the wall of daughter Zion; he stretched the line; he did not withhold his hand from destroying; he caused rampart and wall to lament; they languish together. Her gates have sunk into the ground; he has ruined and broken her bars; her king and princes are among the nations; guidance is no more, and her prophets obtain no vision from the Lord. Your prophets have seen for you false and deceptive visions; they have not exposed your iniquity to restore your fortunes, but have seen oracles for you that are false and misleading. All who pass along the way clap their hands at you; they hiss and wag their heads at daughter Jerusalem; "Is this the city that was called the perfection of beauty, the joy of all the earth?" All your enemies open their mouths against you; they hiss, they gnash their teeth, they cry: "We have devoured her! Ah, this is the day we longed for; at last we have seen it!" The Lord has done what he purposed, he has carried out his threat; as he ordained long ago, he has demolished without pity; he has made the enemy rejoice over you, and exalted the might of your foes.

Canticle 2: A Song of New Creation (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

‘I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, whom I have chosen.’ Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, ‘Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. ‘Behold, I make all things new; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? ‘I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, ‘The people whom I formed for myself, that they might declare my praise.’

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

The Second Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

Mark 12:1-11

Then he began to speak to them in parables. "A man planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a pit for the wine press, and built a watchtower; then he leased it to tenants and went to another country. When the season came, he sent a slave to the tenants to collect from them his share of the produce of the vineyard. But they seized him, and beat him, and sent him away empty-handed. And again he sent another slave to them; this one they beat over the head and insulted. Then he sent another, and that one they killed. And so it was with many others; some they beat, and others they killed. He had still one other, a beloved son. Finally he sent him to them, saying, 'They will respect my son.' But those tenants said to one another, 'This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.' So they seized him, killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard. What then will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the tenants and give the vineyard to others. Have you not read this scripture: 'The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord's doing, and it is amazing in our eyes'?"

Gospel Canticle: The Benedictus (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

Blessèd be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant, David. Through his holy prophets, he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us; He promised to show mercy to our forebears, and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father, Abraham, to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight, all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

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3: The Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

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4: The Prayers

With faith and love and in union with Christ, let us offer our prayer before the throne of grace.

• Have mercy on your people, for whom your Son laid down his life. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring healing and wholeness to people and nations, and have pity on those torn apart by division. Lord, have mercy.

• Strengthen all who are persecuted for your name’s sake, and deliver them from evil. Lord, have mercy.

• Look in mercy upon all who suffer, and hear those who cry out in pain and desolation. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring comfort to the dying, and gladden their hearts with the power of your glory. Lord, have mercy.

• Give rest to the departed and bring them, with your saints, to glory everlasting. Lord, have mercy.

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others. 

Silence may be kept.

As we rejoice in the triumph of the cross, we pray that the whole of creation may find fulfillment in the eternal kingdom of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Lord God, whose blessed Son our Savior gave his body to be whipped and his face to be spit upon: Give us grace to accept joyfully the sufferings of the present time, confident of the glory that shall be revealed; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The Conclusion

May God our Redeemer show us compassion and love.  Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

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EVENING PRAYER1: Confession

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept. Officiant and People together

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life.  Amen.

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2: The Preparation

O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us.

Let your ways be known upon earth Your saving power among the nations.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Opening Canticle: A Song of Entreaty (From Psalm 143)

Lord, hear my prayer, answer me in your righteousness. Enter not into judgement with your servant, for in your sight shall no one living be justified. My spirit faints within me; my heart within me is desolate. I spread out my hands to you; my soul gasps to you like a thirsty land. O Lord, make haste to answer me; my spirit fails me; do not hide your face from me. Let me hear of your loving-kindness in the morning, for I put my trust in you. Show me the road that I must walk, for I lift up my soul to you. Teach me to do what pleases you, for you are my God; let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Revive me, O Lord, for your name’s sake; for your righteousness’ sake, bring me out of trouble.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Opening Prayer

Stir up in us, O God, the fire of your love, that we may be cleansed of all our sins and so be made ready to come into your presence, singing your praises now and for ever. Amen.

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3: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 90 Lord, you have been our refuge from one generation to another.  Before the mountains were brought forth, or the land and the earth were born, from age to age you are God. You turn us back to the dust and say, “Go back, O child of earth.” For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it is past and like a watch in the night. You sweep us away like a dream; we fade away suddenly like the grass. In the morning it is green and flourishes; in the evening it is dried up and withered. For we consume away in your displeasure; we are afraid because of your wrathful indignation. Our iniquities you have set before you, and our secret sins in the light of your countenance. When you are angry, all our days are gone; we bring our years to an end like a sigh. The span of our life is seventy years, perhaps in strength even eighty; yet the sum of them is but labor and sorrow, for they pass away quickly and we are gone. Who regards the power of your wrath? who rightly fears your indignation? So teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts to wisdom. Return, O Lord; how long will you tarry? be gracious to your servants. Satisfy us by your loving-kindness in the morning; so shall we rejoice and be glad all the days of our life. Make us glad by the measure of the days that you afflicted us and the years in which we suffered adversity. Show your servants your works and your splendor to their children. May the graciousness of the Lord our God be upon us; prosper the work of our hands; prosper our handiwork.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Second Canticle: The Song of Christ's Glory (Philippians 2. 5b-11)

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

Christ Jesus was in the form of God, but he did not cling to equality with God. He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, and was born in our human likeness. Being found in human form, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross; Therefore, God has highly exalted him, and bestowed on him the name above every name, That at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

The Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

2 Cor. 1:23-2:11

But I call on God as witness against me: it was to spare you that I did not come again to Corinth. I do not mean to imply that we lord it over your faith; rather, we are workers with you for your joy, because you stand firm in the faith. So I made up my mind not to make you another painful visit. For if I cause you pain, who is there to make me glad but the one whom I have pained? And I wrote as I did, so that when I came, I might not suffer pain from those who should have made me rejoice; for I am confident about all of you, that my joy would be the joy of all of you. For I wrote you out of much distress and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to cause you pain, but to let you know the abundant love that I have for you. But if anyone has caused pain, he has caused it not to me, but to some extent-- not to exaggerate it-- to all of you. This punishment by the majority is enough for such a person; so now instead you should forgive and console him, so that he may not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. So I urge you to reaffirm your love for him. I wrote for this reason: to test you and to know whether you are obedient in everything. Anyone whom you forgive, I also forgive. What I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, has been for your sake in the presence of Christ. And we do this so that we may not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs.

Gospel Canticle: The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55)

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, The promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

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4: The Prayers

In the love of God, let us complete our evening sacrifice of praise.

• For the unity and peace of the holy Church of God throughout the world: Lord, have mercy.

• For the peace and stability of all peoples and for those in authority: Lord, have mercy. 

• For our own country and its national life and for all who dwell among us: Lord, have mercy. 

• For a blessing on our homes, for our relations and friends and all whom we love: Lord, have mercy.

• For the sick and the suffering and for all who minister to their needs: Lord, have mercy. 

• For all who sleep in Christ, that Christ will remember them in his heavenly kingdom: Lord, have mercy. 

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others.  Silence may be kept.

Rejoicing in the fellowship of the blessèd Virgin Mary, (Saint N.) and all the saints, let us commend ourselves into the mighty hands of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Lord God, whose blessed Son our Savior gave his body to be whipped and his face to be spit upon: Give us grace to accept joyfully the sufferings of the present time, confident of the glory that shall be revealed; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The ConclusionCHRISTARAKSHA (from the BCP of the Church of India, Pakistan, Burma and Ceylon)

May the cross of the Son of God, which is mightier than all the hosts of Satan and more glorious than all the hosts of heaven, abide with you in your going out and your coming in. By day and night, at morning and at evening, at all times and in all places     may it protect and defend you. From the wrath of evildoers, from the assaults of evil spirits, from foes visible and invisible, from the snares of the devil, from all passions that beguile the soul and body: may it guard, protect and deliver you. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

MORNING PRAYER1: The Preparation

O Lord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Blessed are you, God of compassion and mercy, to you be praise and glory for ever! [In the darkness of our sin, your light breaks forth like the dawn and your healing springs up for deliverance.] As we rejoice in the gift of your saving help, sustain us with your bountiful Spirit and open our lips to sing your praise, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Blessed be God for ever!

Christ, though tempted like us, was without sin: O come, let us worship.

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Opening Canticle: A Song of Triumph (From Psalm 95)

Come, let us sing to the Lord; let us shout for joy to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving and raise a loud shout to him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hands are the depths of the earth, and the heights of the hills are his also. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands have moulded the dry land. Come, let us bow down and bend the knee, and 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.* O that today you would hearken to his voice! [Harden not your hearts as your forebears did in the wilderness, at Meribah and on that day at Massah, when they tempted me. They put me to the test, though they had seen my works. Forty years long I detested that generation and said, ‘This people are wayward in their hearts; they do not know my ways.’ So I swore in my wrath, ‘They shall not enter my rest.’]

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

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The Opening Prayer

The night has passed and the day lies open before us; let us pray with one heart and mind:

(Silence may be kept)

As we rejoice in the gift of this new day, so may the light of your presence, O God, set our hearts on fire with love for you; now and for ever. Amen.

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2: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 56 Have mercy on me, O God, for my enemies are hounding me; all day long they assault and oppress me. They hound me all the day long; truly there are many who fight against me, O Most High. Whenever I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, In God I trust and will not be afraid, for what can flesh do to me? All day long they damage my cause; their only thought is to do me evil. They band together; they lie in wait; they spy upon my footsteps; because they seek my life. Shall they escape despite their wickedness? O God, in your anger, cast down the peoples. You have noted my lamentation; put my tears into your bottle; are they not recorded in your book? Whenever I call upon you, my enemies will be put to flight; this I know, for God is on my side. In God the Lord, whose word I praise, in God I trust and will not be afraid, for what can mortals do to me? I am bound by the vow I made to you, O God; I will present to you thank-offerings;  For you have rescued my soul from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living.

Psalm 146 Hallelujah! Praise the Lord, O my soul! I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being. Put not your trust in rulers, nor in any child of earth, for there is no help in them. When they breathe their last, they return to earth, and in that day their thoughts perish. Happy are they who have the God of Jacob for their help! whose hope is in the Lord their God; Who made heaven and earth, the seas, and all that is in them; who keeps his promise for ever; Who gives justice to those who are oppressed, and food to those who hunger. The Lord sets the prisoners free; the Lord opens the eyes of the blind; the Lord lifts up those who are bowed down; The Lord loves the righteous; the Lord cares for the stranger; he sustains the orphan and widow, but frustrates the way of the wicked. The Lord shall reign for ever, your God, O Zion, throughout all generations. Hallelujah!

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The First Lesson:

If there are two Scripture Readings, the first may be read here, or both may be read after the second canticle. 

Lam. 1:17-22

Zion stretches out her hands, but there is no one to comfort her; the Lord has commanded against Jacob that his neighbors should become his foes; Jerusalem has become a filthy thing among them. The Lord is in the right, for I have rebelled against his word; but hear, all you peoples, and behold my suffering; my young women and young men have gone into captivity. I called to my lovers but they deceived me; my priests and elders perished in the city while seeking food to revive their strength. See, O Lord, how distressed I am; my stomach churns, my heart is wrung within me, because I have been very rebellious. In the street the sword bereaves; in the house it is like death. They heard how I was groaning, with no one to comfort me. All my enemies heard of my trouble; they are glad that you have done it. Bring on the day you have announced, and let them be as I am. Let all their evil doing come before you; and deal with them as you have dealt with me because of all my transgressions; for my groans are many and my heart is faint.

Canticle 2: A Song of New Creation (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

‘I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, whom I have chosen.’ Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, ‘Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. ‘Behold, I make all things new; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? ‘I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, ‘The people whom I formed for myself, that they might declare my praise.’

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

The Second Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

Mark 11:27-33

Again they came to Jerusalem. As he was walking in the temple, the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders came to him and said, "By what authority are you doing these things? Who gave you this authority to do them?" Jesus said to them, "I will ask you one question; answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. Did the baptism of John come from heaven, or was it of human origin? Answer me." They argued with one another, "If we say, 'From heaven,' he will say, 'Why then did you not believe him?' But shall we say, 'Of human origin'?"-- they were afraid of the crowd, for all regarded John as truly a prophet. So they answered Jesus, "We do not know." And Jesus said to them, "Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things."

Gospel Canticle: The Benedictus (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

Blessèd be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant, David. Through his holy prophets, he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us; He promised to show mercy to our forebears, and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father, Abraham, to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight, all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

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3: The Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

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4: The Prayers

With faith and love and in union with Christ, let us offer our prayer before the throne of grace.

• Have mercy on your people, for whom your Son laid down his life. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring healing and wholeness to people and nations, and have pity on those torn apart by division. Lord, have mercy.

• Strengthen all who are persecuted for your name’s sake, and deliver them from evil. Lord, have mercy.

• Look in mercy upon all who suffer, and hear those who cry out in pain and desolation. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring comfort to the dying, and gladden their hearts with the power of your glory. Lord, have mercy.

• Give rest to the departed and bring them, with your saints, to glory everlasting. Lord, have mercy.

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others. 

Silence may be kept.

As we rejoice in the triumph of the cross, we pray that the whole of creation may find fulfillment in the eternal kingdom of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

O God, by the passion of your blessed Son you made an instrument of shameful death to be for us the means of life: Grant us so to glory in the cross of Christ, that we may gladly suffer shame and loss for the sake of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The Conclusion

May God our Redeemer show us compassion and love.  Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

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EVENING PRAYER1: Confession

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept. Officiant and People together

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life.  Amen.

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2: The Preparation

O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us.

Let your ways be known upon earth Your saving power among the nations.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Opening Canticle: A Song of Entreaty (From Psalm 143)

Lord, hear my prayer, answer me in your righteousness. Enter not into judgement with your servant, for in your sight shall no one living be justified. My spirit faints within me; my heart within me is desolate. I spread out my hands to you; my soul gasps to you like a thirsty land. O Lord, make haste to answer me; my spirit fails me; do not hide your face from me. Let me hear of your loving-kindness in the morning, for I put my trust in you. Show me the road that I must walk, for I lift up my soul to you. Teach me to do what pleases you, for you are my God; let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Revive me, O Lord, for your name’s sake; for your righteousness’ sake, bring me out of trouble.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Opening Prayer

Stir up in us, O God, the fire of your love, that we may be cleansed of all our sins and so be made ready to come into your presence, singing your praises now and for ever. Amen.

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3: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 38 O Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger; do not punish me in your wrath. For your arrows have already pierced me, and your hand presses hard upon me. There is no health in my flesh, because of your indignation; there is no soundness in my body, because of my sin. For my iniquities overwhelm me; like a heavy burden they are too much for me to bear. My wounds stink and fester by reason of my foolishness. I am utterly bowed down and prostrate; I go about in mourning all the day long. My loins are filled with searing pain; there is no health in my body. I am utterly numb and crushed; I wail, because of the groaning of my heart.  O Lord, you know all my desires, and my sighing is not hidden from you. My heart is pounding, my strength has failed me, and the brightness of my eyes is gone from me. My friends and companions draw back from my affliction; my neighbors stand afar off. Those who seek after my life lay snares for me; those who strive to hurt me speak of my ruin and plot treachery all the day long.  But I am like the deaf who do not hear, like those who are mute and do not open their mouth.  I have become like one who does not hear and from whose mouth comes no defense.  For in you, O Lord, have I fixed my hope; you will answer me, O Lord my God. For I said, “Do not let them rejoice at my expense, those who gloat over me when my foot slips.” Truly, I am on the verge of falling, and my pain is always with me. I will confess my iniquity and be sorry for my sin. Those who are my enemies without cause are mighty, and many in number are those who wrongfully hate me. Those who repay evil for good slander me, because I follow the course that is right. O Lord, do not forsake me; be not far from me, O my God. Make haste to help me, O Lord of my salvation.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Second Canticle: The Song of Christ's Glory (Philippians 2. 5b-11)

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

Christ Jesus was in the form of God, but he did not cling to equality with God. He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, and was born in our human likeness. Being found in human form, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross; Therefore, God has highly exalted him, and bestowed on him the name above every name, That at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

The Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

2 Cor. 1:8-22

We do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, of the affliction we experienced in Asia; for we were so utterly, unbearably crushed that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death so that we would rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. He who rescued us from so deadly a peril will continue to rescue us; on him we have set our hope that he will rescue us again, as you also join in helping us by your prayers, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many. Indeed, this is our boast, the testimony of our conscience: we have behaved in the world with frankness and godly sincerity, not by earthly wisdom but by the grace of God-- and all the more toward you. For we write you nothing other than what you can read and also understand; I hope you will understand until the end-- as you have already understood us in part-- that on the day of the Lord Jesus we are your boast even as you are our boast. Since I was sure of this, I wanted to come to you first, so that you might have a double favor; I wanted to visit you on my way to Macedonia, and to come back to you from Macedonia and have you send me on to Judea. Was I vacillating when I wanted to do this? Do I make my plans according to ordinary human standards, ready to say "Yes, yes" and "No, no" at the same time? As surely as God is faithful, our word to you has not been "Yes and No." For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, whom we proclaimed among you, Silvanus and Timothy and I, was not "Yes and No" but in him it is always "Yes." For in him every one of God's promises is a "Yes." For this reason it is through him that we say the "Amen," to the glory of God. But it is God who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us, by putting his seal on us and giving us his Spirit in our hearts as a first installment.

Gospel Canticle: The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55)

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, The promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

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4: The Prayers

In the love of God, let us complete our evening sacrifice of praise.

• For the unity and peace of the holy Church of God throughout the world: Lord, have mercy.

• For the peace and stability of all peoples and for those in authority: Lord, have mercy. 

• For our own country and its national life and for all who dwell among us: Lord, have mercy. 

• For a blessing on our homes, for our relations and friends and all whom we love: Lord, have mercy.

• For the sick and the suffering and for all who minister to their needs: Lord, have mercy. 

• For all who sleep in Christ, that Christ will remember them in his heavenly kingdom: Lord, have mercy. 

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others.  Silence may be kept.

Rejoicing in the fellowship of the blessèd Virgin Mary, (Saint N.) and all the saints, let us commend ourselves into the mighty hands of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

O God, by the passion of your blessed Son you made an instrument of shameful death to be for us the means of life: Grant us so to glory in the cross of Christ, that we may gladly suffer shame and loss for the sake of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The ConclusionCHRISTARAKSHA (from the BCP of the Church of India, Pakistan, Burma and Ceylon)

May the cross of the Son of God, which is mightier than all the hosts of Satan and more glorious than all the hosts of heaven, abide with you in your going out and your coming in. By day and night, at morning and at evening, at all times and in all places     may it protect and defend you. From the wrath of evildoers, from the assaults of evil spirits, from foes visible and invisible, from the snares of the devil, from all passions that beguile the soul and body: may it guard, protect and deliver you. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

MORNING PRAYER1: The Preparation

O Lord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Blessed are you, God of compassion and mercy, to you be praise and glory for ever! [In the darkness of our sin, your light breaks forth like the dawn and your healing springs up for deliverance.] As we rejoice in the gift of your saving help, sustain us with your bountiful Spirit and open our lips to sing your praise, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Blessed be God for ever!

Christ, though tempted like us, was without sin: O come, let us worship.

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Opening Canticle: A Song of Triumph (From Psalm 95)

Come, let us sing to the Lord; let us shout for joy to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving and raise a loud shout to him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hands are the depths of the earth, and the heights of the hills are his also. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands have moulded the dry land. Come, let us bow down and bend the knee, and 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.* O that today you would hearken to his voice! [Harden not your hearts as your forebears did in the wilderness, at Meribah and on that day at Massah, when they tempted me. They put me to the test, though they had seen my works. Forty years long I detested that generation and said, ‘This people are wayward in their hearts; they do not know my ways.’ So I swore in my wrath, ‘They shall not enter my rest.’]

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

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The Opening Prayer

The night has passed and the day lies open before us; let us pray with one heart and mind:

(Silence may be kept)

As we rejoice in the gift of this new day, so may the light of your presence, O God, set our hearts on fire with love for you; now and for ever. Amen.

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2: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 32 Happy are they whose transgressions are forgiven, and whose sin is put away!  Happy are they to whom the Lord imputes no guilt, and in whose spirit there is no guile! While I held my tongue, my bones withered away, because of my groaning all day long.  For your hand was heavy upon me day and night; my moisture was dried up as in the heat of summer.  Then I acknowledged my sin to you, and did not conceal my guilt.  I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.” Then you forgave me the guilt of my sin.  Therefore all the faithful will make their prayers to you in time of trouble; when the great waters overflow, they shall not reach them.  You are my hiding-place; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with shouts of deliverance.  “I will instruct you and teach you in the way that you should go; I will guide you with my eye.  Do not be like horse or mule, which have no understanding; who must be fitted with bit and bridle, or else they will not stay near you.” Great are the tribulations of the wicked; but mercy embraces those who trust in the Lord. Be glad, you righteous, and rejoice in the Lord; shout for joy, all who are true of heart.

Psalm 150 Hallelujah! Praise God in his holy temple; praise him in the firmament of his power. Praise him for his mighty acts; praise him for his excellent greatness. Praise him with the blast of the ram’s-horn; Praise him with lyre and harp. Praise him with timbrel and dance; praise him with strings and pipe. Praise him with resounding cymbals; praise him with loud-clanging cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Hallelujah!

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The First Lesson:

If there are two Scripture Readings, the first may be read here, or both may be read after the second canticle. 

Lam. 1:1-2,6-12

How lonely sits the city that once was full of people! How like a widow she has become, she that was great among the nations! She that was a princess among the provinces has become a vassal. She weeps bitterly in the night, with tears on her cheeks; among all her lovers she has no one to comfort her; all her friends have dealt treacherously with her, they have become her enemies. From daughter Zion has departed all her majesty. Her princes have become like stags that find no pasture; they fled without strength before the pursuer. Jerusalem remembers, in the days of her affliction and wandering, all the precious things that were hers in days of old. When her people fell into the hand of the foe, and there was no one to help her, the foe looked on mocking over her downfall. Jerusalem sinned grievously, so she has become a mockery; all who honored her despise her, for they have seen her nakedness; she herself groans, and turns her face away. Her uncleanness was in her skirts; she took no thought of her future; her downfall was appalling, with none to comfort her. "O Lord, look at my affliction, for the enemy has triumphed!" Enemies have stretched out their hands over all her precious things; she has even seen the nations invade her sanctuary, those whom you forbade to enter your congregation. All her people groan as they search for bread; they trade their treasures for food to revive their strength. Look, O Lord, and see how worthless I have become. Is it nothing to you, all you who pass by? Look and see if there is any sorrow like my sorrow, which was brought upon me, which the Lord inflicted on the day of his fierce anger.

Canticle 2: A Song of New Creation (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

‘I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, whom I have chosen.’ Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, ‘Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. ‘Behold, I make all things new; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? ‘I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, ‘The people whom I formed for myself, that they might declare my praise.’

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

The Second Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

Mark 11:12-25

On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see whether perhaps he would find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. He said to it, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again." And his disciples heard it. Then they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who were selling and those who were buying in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves; and he would not allow anyone to carry anything through the temple. He was teaching and saying, "Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations'? But you have made it a den of robbers." And when the chief priests and the scribes heard it, they kept looking for a way to kill him; for they were afraid of him, because the whole crowd was spellbound by his teaching. And when evening came, Jesus and his disciples went out of the city. In the morning as they passed by, they saw the fig tree withered away to its roots. Then Peter remembered and said to him, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree that you cursed has withered." Jesus answered them, "Have faith in God. Truly I tell you, if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' and if you do not doubt in your heart, but believe that what you say will come to pass, it will be done for you. So I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. "Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses."

Gospel Canticle: The Benedictus (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

Blessèd be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant, David. Through his holy prophets, he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us; He promised to show mercy to our forebears, and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father, Abraham, to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight, all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

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3: The Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

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4: The Prayers

With faith and love and in union with Christ, let us offer our prayer before the throne of grace.

• Have mercy on your people, for whom your Son laid down his life. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring healing and wholeness to people and nations, and have pity on those torn apart by division. Lord, have mercy.

• Strengthen all who are persecuted for your name’s sake, and deliver them from evil. Lord, have mercy.

• Look in mercy upon all who suffer, and hear those who cry out in pain and desolation. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring comfort to the dying, and gladden their hearts with the power of your glory. Lord, have mercy.

• Give rest to the departed and bring them, with your saints, to glory everlasting. Lord, have mercy.

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others. 

Silence may be kept.

As we rejoice in the triumph of the cross, we pray that the whole of creation may find fulfillment in the eternal kingdom of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The Conclusion

May God our Redeemer show us compassion and love.  Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

—

EVENING PRAYER1: Confession

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept. Officiant and People together

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life.  Amen.

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2: The Preparation

O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us.

Let your ways be known upon earth Your saving power among the nations.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Opening Canticle: A Song of Entreaty (From Psalm 143)

Lord, hear my prayer, answer me in your righteousness. Enter not into judgement with your servant, for in your sight shall no one living be justified. My spirit faints within me; my heart within me is desolate. I spread out my hands to you; my soul gasps to you like a thirsty land. O Lord, make haste to answer me; my spirit fails me; do not hide your face from me. Let me hear of your loving-kindness in the morning, for I put my trust in you. Show me the road that I must walk, for I lift up my soul to you. Teach me to do what pleases you, for you are my God; let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Revive me, O Lord, for your name’s sake; for your righteousness’ sake, bring me out of trouble.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Opening Prayer

Stir up in us, O God, the fire of your love, that we may be cleansed of all our sins and so be made ready to come into your presence, singing your praises now and for ever. Amen.

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3: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 102 Lord, hear my prayer, and let my cry come before you; hide not your face from me in the day of my trouble. Incline your ear to me; when I call, make haste to answer me, For my days drift away like smoke, and my bones are hot as burning coals. My heart is smitten like grass and withered, so that I forget to eat my bread. Because of the voice of my groaning I am but skin and bones. I have become like a vulture in the wilderness, like an owl among the ruins. I lie awake and groan; I am like a sparrow, lonely on a house-top. My enemies revile me all day long, and those who scoff at me have taken an oath against me. For I have eaten ashes for bread and mingled my drink with weeping. Because of your indignation and wrath you have lifted me up and thrown me away. My days pass away like a shadow, and I wither like the grass. But you, O Lord, endure for ever, and your Name from age to age. You will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to have mercy upon her; indeed, the appointed time has come. For your servants love her very rubble, and are moved to pity even for her dust. The nations shall fear your Name, O Lord, and all the kings of the earth your glory. For the Lord will build up Zion, and his glory will appear. He will look with favor on the prayer of the homeless; he will not despise their plea. Let this be written for a future generation, so that a people yet unborn may praise the Lord. For the Lord looked down from his holy place on high; from the heavens he beheld the earth; That he might hear the groan of the captive and set free those condemned to die; That they may declare in Zion the Name of the Lord, and his praise in Jerusalem; When the peoples are gathered together, and the kingdoms also, to serve the Lord. He has brought down my strength before my time; he has shortened the number of my days; And I said, “O my God, do not take me away in the midst of my days; your years endure throughout all generations. In the beginning, O Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands;  They shall perish, but you will endure; they all shall wear out like a garment; as clothing you will change them, and they shall be changed; But you are always the same, and your years will never end. The children of your servants shall continue, and their offspring shall stand fast in your sight.”

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Second Canticle: The Song of Christ's Glory (Philippians 2. 5b-11)

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

Christ Jesus was in the form of God, but he did not cling to equality with God. He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, and was born in our human likeness. Being found in human form, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross; Therefore, God has highly exalted him, and bestowed on him the name above every name, That at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

The Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

2 Cor. 1:1-7

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God that is in Corinth, including all the saints throughout Achaia: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all consolation, who consoles us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to console those who are in any affliction with the consolation with which we ourselves are consoled by God. For just as the sufferings of Christ are abundant for us, so also our consolation is abundant through Christ. If we are being afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation; if we are being consoled, it is for your consolation, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we are also suffering. Our hope for you is unshaken; for we know that as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our consolation.

Gospel Canticle: The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55)

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, The promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

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4: The Prayers

In the love of God, let us complete our evening sacrifice of praise.

• For the unity and peace of the holy Church of God throughout the world: Lord, have mercy.

• For the peace and stability of all peoples and for those in authority: Lord, have mercy. 

• For our own country and its national life and for all who dwell among us: Lord, have mercy. 

• For a blessing on our homes, for our relations and friends and all whom we love: Lord, have mercy.

• For the sick and the suffering and for all who minister to their needs: Lord, have mercy. 

• For all who sleep in Christ, that Christ will remember them in his heavenly kingdom: Lord, have mercy. 

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others.  Silence may be kept.

Rejoicing in the fellowship of the blessèd Virgin Mary, (Saint N.) and all the saints, let us commend ourselves into the mighty hands of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The ConclusionCHRISTARAKSHA (from the BCP of the Church of India, Pakistan, Burma and Ceylon)

May the cross of the Son of God, which is mightier than all the hosts of Satan and more glorious than all the hosts of heaven, abide with you in your going out and your coming in. By day and night, at morning and at evening, at all times and in all places     may it protect and defend you. From the wrath of evildoers, from the assaults of evil spirits, from foes visible and invisible, from the snares of the devil, from all passions that beguile the soul and body: may it guard, protect and deliver you. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

MORNING PRAYER1: The Preparation

O Lord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Blessed are you, God of compassion and mercy, to you be praise and glory for ever! [In the darkness of our sin, your light breaks forth like the dawn and your healing springs up for deliverance.] As we rejoice in the gift of your saving help, sustain us with your bountiful Spirit and open our lips to sing your praise, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Blessed be God for ever!

Christ, though tempted like us, was without sin: O come, let us worship.

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Opening Canticle: A Song of Triumph (From Psalm 95)

Come, let us sing to the Lord; let us shout for joy to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving and raise a loud shout to him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hands are the depths of the earth, and the heights of the hills are his also. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands have moulded the dry land. Come, let us bow down and bend the knee, and 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.* O that today you would hearken to his voice! [Harden not your hearts as your forebears did in the wilderness, at Meribah and on that day at Massah, when they tempted me. They put me to the test, though they had seen my works. Forty years long I detested that generation and said, ‘This people are wayward in their hearts; they do not know my ways.’ So I swore in my wrath, ‘They shall not enter my rest.’]

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

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The Opening Prayer

The night has passed and the day lies open before us; let us pray with one heart and mind:

(Silence may be kept)

As we rejoice in the gift of this new day, so may the light of your presence, O God, set our hearts on fire with love for you; now and for ever. Amen.

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2: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 26 Give judgment for me, O Lord, for I have lived with integrity; I have trusted in the Lord and have not faltered.  Test me, O Lord, and try me; examine my heart and my mind.  For your love is before my eyes; I have walked faithfully with you.  I have not sat with the worthless, nor do I consort with the deceitful. I have hated the company of evildoers; I will not sit down with the wicked.  I will wash my hands in innocence, O Lord, that I may go in procession round your altar, Singing aloud a song of thanksgiving and recounting all your wonderful deeds. Lord, I love the house in which you dwell and the place where your glory abides.  Do not sweep me away with sinners, nor my life with those who thirst for blood,  Whose hands are full of evil plots, and their right hand full of bribes.  As for me, I will live with integrity; redeem me, O Lord, and have pity on me. My foot stands on level ground; in the full assembly I will bless the Lord.

Psalm 117 Praise the Lord, all you nations; laud him, all you peoples. For his loving-kindness toward us is great, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures for ever. Hallelujah!

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The First Lesson:

If there are two Scripture Readings, the first may be read here, or both may be read after the second canticle. 

Zech. 9:9-12

Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter Jerusalem! Lo, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. He will cut off the chariot from Ephraim and the war-horse from Jerusalem; and the battle bow shall be cut off, and he shall command peace to the nations; his dominion shall be from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth. As for you also, because of the blood of my covenant with you, I will set your prisoners free from the waterless pit. Return to your stronghold, O prisoners of hope; today I declare that I will restore to you double.

Canticle 2: A Song of New Creation (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

‘I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, whom I have chosen.’ Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, ‘Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. ‘Behold, I make all things new; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? ‘I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, ‘The people whom I formed for myself, that they might declare my praise.’

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

The Second Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

1 Tim. 6:12-16

Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life, to which you were called and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. In the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who in his testimony before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you to keep the commandment without spot or blame until the manifestation of our Lord Jesus Christ, which he will bring about at the right time-- he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords. It is he alone who has immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see; to him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen.

Gospel Canticle: The Benedictus (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

Blessèd be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant, David. Through his holy prophets, he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us; He promised to show mercy to our forebears, and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father, Abraham, to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight, all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

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3: The Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

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4: The Prayers

With faith and love and in union with Christ, let us offer our prayer before the throne of grace.

• Have mercy on your people, for whom your Son laid down his life. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring healing and wholeness to people and nations, and have pity on those torn apart by division. Lord, have mercy.

• Strengthen all who are persecuted for your name’s sake, and deliver them from evil. Lord, have mercy.

• Look in mercy upon all who suffer, and hear those who cry out in pain and desolation. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring comfort to the dying, and gladden their hearts with the power of your glory. Lord, have mercy.

• Give rest to the departed and bring them, with your saints, to glory everlasting. Lord, have mercy.

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others. 

Silence may be kept.

As we rejoice in the triumph of the cross, we pray that the whole of creation may find fulfillment in the eternal kingdom of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty and everliving God, in your tender love for the human race you sent your Son our Savior Jesus Christ to take upon him our nature, and to suffer death upon the cross, giving us the example of his great humility:  Mercifully grant that we may walk in the way of his suffering, and also share in his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The Conclusion

May God our Redeemer show us compassion and love.  Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

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EVENING PRAYER1: Confession

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept. Officiant and People together

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life.  Amen.

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2: The Preparation

O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us.

Let your ways be known upon earth Your saving power among the nations.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Opening Canticle: A Song of Entreaty (From Psalm 143)

Lord, hear my prayer, answer me in your righteousness. Enter not into judgement with your servant, for in your sight shall no one living be justified. My spirit faints within me; my heart within me is desolate. I spread out my hands to you; my soul gasps to you like a thirsty land. O Lord, make haste to answer me; my spirit fails me; do not hide your face from me. Let me hear of your loving-kindness in the morning, for I put my trust in you. Show me the road that I must walk, for I lift up my soul to you. Teach me to do what pleases you, for you are my God; let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Revive me, O Lord, for your name’s sake; for your righteousness’ sake, bring me out of trouble.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Opening Prayer

Stir up in us, O God, the fire of your love, that we may be cleansed of all our sins and so be made ready to come into your presence, singing your praises now and for ever. Amen.

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3: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 86 Bow down your ear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and in misery. Keep watch over my life, for I am faithful; save your servant who puts his trust in you.  Be merciful to me, O Lord, for you are my God; I call upon you all the day long. Gladden the soul of your servant, for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, and great is your love toward all who call upon you. Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer, and attend to the voice of my supplications. In the time of my trouble I will call upon you, for you will answer me. Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord, nor anything like your works. All nations you have made will come and worship you, O Lord, and glorify your Name. For you are great; you do wondrous things; and you alone are God. Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; knit my heart to you that I may fear your Name. I will thank you, O Lord my God, with all my heart, and glorify your Name for evermore. For great is your love toward me; you have delivered me from the nethermost Pit. The arrogant rise up against me, O God, and a band of violent men seeks my life; they have not set you before their eyes. But you, O Lord, are gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger, and full of kindness and truth. Turn to me and have mercy upon me; give your strength to your servant; and save the child of your handmaid. Show me a sign of your favor, so that those who hate me may see it and be ashamed; because you, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Second Canticle: The Song of Christ's Glory (Philippians 2. 5b-11)

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

Christ Jesus was in the form of God, but he did not cling to equality with God. He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, and was born in our human likeness. Being found in human form, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross; Therefore, God has highly exalted him, and bestowed on him the name above every name, That at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

The Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

Zech. 12:9-11,13:1,7-9

And on that day I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem. And I will pour out a spirit of compassion and supplication on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that, when they look on the one whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn. On that day the mourning in Jerusalem will be as great as the mourning for Hadad-rimmon in the plain of Megiddo. On that day a fountain shall be opened for the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity. “Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, against the man who is my associate," says the Lord of hosts. Strike the shepherd, that the sheep may be scattered; I will turn my hand against the little ones. In the whole land, says the Lord, two-thirds shall be cut off and perish, and one-third shall be left alive. And I will put this third into the fire, refine them as one refines silver, and test them as gold is tested. They will call on my name, and I will answer them. I will say, "They are my people" and they will say, "The Lord is our God."

Luke 19:41-48

As he came near and saw the city, he wept over it, saying, "If you, even you, had only recognized on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are hidden from your eyes. Indeed, the days will come upon you, when your enemies will set up ramparts around you and surround you, and hem you in on every side. They will crush you to the ground, you and your children within you, and they will not leave within you one stone upon another; because you did not recognize the time of your visitation from God." Then he entered the temple and began to drive out those who were selling things there; and he said, "It is written, 'My house shall be a house of prayer' but you have made it a den of robbers." Every day he was teaching in the temple. The chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people kept looking for a way to kill him; but they did not find anything they could do, for all the people were spellbound by what they heard.

Gospel Canticle: The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55)

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, The promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

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4: The Prayers

In the love of God, let us complete our evening sacrifice of praise.

• For the unity and peace of the holy Church of God throughout the world: Lord, have mercy.

• For the peace and stability of all peoples and for those in authority: Lord, have mercy. 

• For our own country and its national life and for all who dwell among us: Lord, have mercy. 

• For a blessing on our homes, for our relations and friends and all whom we love: Lord, have mercy.

• For the sick and the suffering and for all who minister to their needs: Lord, have mercy. 

• For all who sleep in Christ, that Christ will remember them in his heavenly kingdom: Lord, have mercy. 

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others.  Silence may be kept.

Rejoicing in the fellowship of the blessèd Virgin Mary, (Saint N.) and all the saints, let us commend ourselves into the mighty hands of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty and everliving God, in your tender love for the human race you sent your Son our Savior Jesus Christ to take upon him our nature, and to suffer death upon the cross, giving us the example of his great humility:  Mercifully grant that we may walk in the way of his suffering, and also share in his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The ConclusionCHRISTARAKSHA (from the BCP of the Church of India, Pakistan, Burma and Ceylon)

May the cross of the Son of God, which is mightier than all the hosts of Satan and more glorious than all the hosts of heaven, abide with you in your going out and your coming in. By day and night, at morning and at evening, at all times and in all places     may it protect and defend you. From the wrath of evildoers, from the assaults of evil spirits, from foes visible and invisible, from the snares of the devil, from all passions that beguile the soul and body: may it guard, protect and deliver you. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

MORNING PRAYER1: The Preparation

O Lord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Blessed are you, God of compassion and mercy, to you be praise and glory for ever! [In the darkness of our sin, your light breaks forth like the dawn and your healing springs up for deliverance.] As we rejoice in the gift of your saving help, sustain us with your bountiful Spirit and open our lips to sing your praise, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Blessed be God for ever!

Christ, though tempted like us, was without sin: O come, let us worship.

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Opening Canticle: A Song of Penitence (From Psalm 51)

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your loving-kindness; in your great compassion blot out my offenses. Wash me through and through from my wickedness and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you only have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight. And so you are justified when you speak* and upright in your judgement. [Indeed, I have been wicked from my birth, a sinner from my mother’s womb. For behold, you look for truth deep within me, and will make me understand wisdom secretly. Purge me from my sin and I shall be pure; wash me and I shall be clean indeed. Make me hear of joy and gladness, that the body you have broken may rejoice. Hide your face from my sins* and blot out all my iniquities.] Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence and take not your holy Spirit from me. Give me the joy of your saving help again and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit. I shall teach your ways to the wicked, and sinners shall return to you. Deliver me from death, O God, and my tongue shall sing of your righteousness, O God of my salvation. Open my lips, O Lord, and my mouth shall proclaim your praise. Had you desired it, I would have offered sacrifice, but you take no delight in burnt-offerings. The sacrifice of God is a troubled spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

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The Opening Prayer

The night has passed and the day lies open before us; let us pray with one heart and mind:

(Silence may be kept)

As we rejoice in the gift of this new day, so may the light of your presence, O God, set our hearts on fire with love for you; now and for ever. Amen.

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2: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 13 How long, O Lord? will you forget me for ever? how long will you hide your face from me? How long shall I have perplexity in my mind, and grief in my heart, day after day? how long shall my enemy triumph over me?  Look upon me and answer me, O Lord my God; give light to my eyes, lest I sleep in death;  Lest my enemy say, "I have prevailed over him,” and my foes rejoice that I have fallen.  But I put my trust in your mercy; my heart is joyful because of your saving help. I will sing to the Lord, for he has dealt with me richly; I will praise the Name of the Lord Most High.

Psalm 124 If the Lord had not been on our side, let Israel now say; If the Lord had not been on our side, when enemies rose up against us; Then would they have swallowed us up alive in their fierce anger toward us; Then would the waters have overwhelmed us and the torrent gone over us; Then would the raging waters have gone right over us. Blessed be the Lord! he has not given us over to be a prey for their teeth. We have escaped like a bird from the snare of the fowler; the snare is broken, and we have escaped. Our help is in the Name of the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.

Psalm 149 Hallelujah! Sing to the Lord a new song; sing his praise in the congregation of the faithful. Let Israel rejoice in his Maker; let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise his Name in the dance; let them sing praise to him with timbrel and harp. For the Lord takes pleasure in his people and adorns the poor with victory. Let the faithful rejoice in triumph; let them be joyful on their beds. Let the praises of God be in their throat and a two-edged sword in their hand; To wreak vengeance on the nations and punishment on the peoples; To bind their kings in chains and their nobles with links of iron; To inflict on them the judgment decreed; this is glory for all his faithful people. Hallelujah!

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The First Lesson:

If there are two Scripture Readings, the first may be read here, or both may be read after the second canticle. 

Exod. 10:21-11:8

Then the Lord said to Moses, "Stretch out your hand toward heaven so that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, a darkness that can be felt." So Moses stretched out his hand toward heaven, and there was dense darkness in all the land of Egypt for three days. People could not see one another, and for three days they could not move from where they were; but all the Israelites had light where they lived. Then Pharaoh summoned Moses, and said, "Go, worship the Lord. Only your flocks and your herds shall remain behind. Even your children may go with you." But Moses said, "You must also let us have sacrifices and burnt offerings to sacrifice to the Lord our God. Our livestock also must go with us; not a hoof shall be left behind, for we must choose some of them for the worship of the Lord our God, and we will not know what to use to worship the Lord until we arrive there." But the Lord hardened Pharaoh's heart, and he was unwilling to let them go. Then Pharaoh said to him, "Get away from me! Take care that you do not see my face again, for on the day you see my face you shall die." Moses said, "Just as you say! I will never see your face again." The Lord said to Moses, "I will bring one more plague upon Pharaoh and upon Egypt; afterwards he will let you go from here; indeed, when he lets you go, he will drive you away. Tell the people that every man is to ask his neighbor and every woman is to ask her neighbor for objects of silver and gold." The Lord gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover, Moses himself was a man of great importance in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh's officials and in the sight of the people. Moses said, "Thus says the Lord: About midnight I will go out through Egypt. Every firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sits on his throne to the firstborn of the female slave who is behind the handmill, and all the firstborn of the livestock. Then there will be a loud cry throughout the whole land of Egypt, such as has never been or will ever be again. But not a dog shall growl at any of the Israelites-- not at people, not at animals-- so that you may know that the Lord makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel. Then all these officials of yours shall come down to me, and bow low to me, saying, 'Leave us, you and all the people who follow you.' After that I will leave." And in hot anger he left Pharaoh.

Canticle 2: A Song of New Creation (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

‘I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, whom I have chosen.’ Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, ‘Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. ‘Behold, I make all things new; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? ‘I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, ‘The people whom I formed for myself, that they might declare my praise.’

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

The Second Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

Mark 10:46-52

They came to Jericho. As he and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" Many sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" Jesus stood still and said, "Call him here." And they called the blind man, saying to him, "Take heart; get up, he is calling you." So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. Then Jesus said to him, "What do you want me to do for you?" The blind man said to him, "My teacher, let me see again." Jesus said to him, "Go; your faith has made you well." Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.

Gospel Canticle: The Benedictus (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

Blessèd be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant, David. Through his holy prophets, he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us; He promised to show mercy to our forebears, and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father, Abraham, to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight, all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

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3: The Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

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4: The Prayers

With faith and love and in union with Christ, let us offer our prayer before the throne of grace.

• Have mercy on your people, for whom your Son laid down his life. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring healing and wholeness to people and nations, and have pity on those torn apart by division. Lord, have mercy.

• Strengthen all who are persecuted for your name’s sake, and deliver them from evil. Lord, have mercy.

• Look in mercy upon all who suffer, and hear those who cry out in pain and desolation. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring comfort to the dying, and gladden their hearts with the power of your glory. Lord, have mercy.

• Give rest to the departed and bring them, with your saints, to glory everlasting. Lord, have mercy.

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others. 

Silence may be kept.

As we rejoice in the triumph of the cross, we pray that the whole of creation may find fulfillment in the eternal kingdom of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty God, you alone can bring into order the unruly wills and affections of sinners: Grant your people grace to love what you command and desire what you promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The Conclusion

May God our Redeemer show us compassion and love.  Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

—

EVENING PRAYER1: Confession

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept. Officiant and People together

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life.  Amen.

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2: The Preparation

O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us.

Let your ways be known upon earth Your saving power among the nations.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Opening Canticle: A Song of Entreaty (From Psalm 143)

Lord, hear my prayer, answer me in your righteousness. Enter not into judgement with your servant, for in your sight shall no one living be justified. My spirit faints within me; my heart within me is desolate. I spread out my hands to you; my soul gasps to you like a thirsty land. O Lord, make haste to answer me; my spirit fails me; do not hide your face from me. Let me hear of your loving-kindness in the morning, for I put my trust in you. Show me the road that I must walk, for I lift up my soul to you. Teach me to do what pleases you, for you are my God; let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Revive me, O Lord, for your name’s sake; for your righteousness’ sake, bring me out of trouble.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Opening Prayer

Stir up in us, O God, the fire of your love, that we may be cleansed of all our sins and so be made ready to come into your presence, singing your praises now and for ever. Amen.

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3: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 31 In you, O Lord, have I taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. Incline your ear to me; make haste to deliver me. Be my strong rock, a castle to keep me safe, for you are my crag and my stronghold; for the sake of your Name, lead me and guide me.  Take me out of the net that they have secretly set for me, for you are my tower of strength. Into your hands I commend my spirit, for you have redeemed me, O Lord, O God of truth. I hate those who cling to worthless idols, and I put my trust in the Lord. I will rejoice and be glad because of your mercy; for you have seen my affliction; you know my distress.  You have not shut me up in the power of the enemy; you have set my feet in an open place. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am in trouble; my eye is consumed with sorrow, and also my throat and my belly.  For my life is wasted with grief, and my years with sighing; my strength fails me because of affliction, and my bones are consumed.  I have become a reproach to all my enemies and even to my neighbors, a dismay to those of my acquaintance; when they see me in the street they avoid me. I am forgotten like a dead man, out of mind; I am as useless as a broken pot.  For I have heard the whispering of the crowd; fear is all around; they put their heads together against me; they plot to take my life. But as for me, I have trusted in you, O Lord. I have said, “You are my God. My times are in your hand; rescue me from the hand of my enemies, and from those who persecute me. Make your face to shine upon your servant, and in your loving-kindness save me.” Lord, let me not be ashamed for having called upon you; rather, let the wicked be put to shame; let them be silent in the grave. Let the lying lips be silenced which speak against the righteous, haughtily, disdainfully, and with contempt.  How great is your goodness, O Lord! which you have laid up for those who fear you; which you have done in the sight of all for those who put their trust in you. You hide them in the covert of your presence from those who slander them; you keep them in your shelter from the strife of tongues. Blessed be the Lord! for he has shown me the wonders of his love in a besieged city. Yet I said in my alarm, “I have been cut off from the sight of your eyes.” Nevertheless, you heard the sound of my entreaty when I cried out to you. Love the Lord, all you who worship him; the Lord protects the faithful, but repays to the full those who act haughtily. Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Second Canticle: The Song of Christ's Glory (Philippians 2. 5b-11)

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

Christ Jesus was in the form of God, but he did not cling to equality with God. He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, and was born in our human likeness. Being found in human form, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross; Therefore, God has highly exalted him, and bestowed on him the name above every name, That at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

The Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

2 Cor. 4:13-18

But just as we have the same spirit of faith that is in accordance with scripture-- "I believed, and so I spoke"-- we also believe, and so we speak, because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus, and will bring us with you into his presence. Yes, everything is for your sake, so that grace, as it extends to more and more people, may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God. So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. For this slight momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure, because we look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen; for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal.

Gospel Canticle: The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55)

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, The promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

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4: The Prayers

In the love of God, let us complete our evening sacrifice of praise.

• For the unity and peace of the holy Church of God throughout the world: Lord, have mercy.

• For the peace and stability of all peoples and for those in authority: Lord, have mercy. 

• For our own country and its national life and for all who dwell among us: Lord, have mercy. 

• For a blessing on our homes, for our relations and friends and all whom we love: Lord, have mercy.

• For the sick and the suffering and for all who minister to their needs: Lord, have mercy. 

• For all who sleep in Christ, that Christ will remember them in his heavenly kingdom: Lord, have mercy. 

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others.  Silence may be kept.

Rejoicing in the fellowship of the blessèd Virgin Mary, (Saint N.) and all the saints, let us commend ourselves into the mighty hands of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty God, you alone can bring into order the unruly wills and affections of sinners: Grant your people grace to love what you command and desire what you promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The ConclusionCHRISTARAKSHA (from the BCP of the Church of India, Pakistan, Burma and Ceylon)

May the cross of the Son of God, which is mightier than all the hosts of Satan and more glorious than all the hosts of heaven, abide with you in your going out and your coming in. By day and night, at morning and at evening, at all times and in all places     may it protect and defend you. From the wrath of evildoers, from the assaults of evil spirits, from foes visible and invisible, from the snares of the devil, from all passions that beguile the soul and body: may it guard, protect and deliver you. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

MORNING PRAYER1: The Preparation

O Lord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Blessed are you, God of compassion and mercy, to you be praise and glory for ever! [In the darkness of our sin, your light breaks forth like the dawn and your healing springs up for deliverance.] As we rejoice in the gift of your saving help, sustain us with your bountiful Spirit and open our lips to sing your praise, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Blessed be God for ever!

Christ, though tempted like us, was without sin: O come, let us worship.

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Opening Canticle: A Song of Penitence (From Psalm 51)

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your loving-kindness; in your great compassion blot out my offenses. Wash me through and through from my wickedness and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you only have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight. And so you are justified when you speak* and upright in your judgement. [Indeed, I have been wicked from my birth, a sinner from my mother’s womb. For behold, you look for truth deep within me, and will make me understand wisdom secretly. Purge me from my sin and I shall be pure; wash me and I shall be clean indeed. Make me hear of joy and gladness, that the body you have broken may rejoice. Hide your face from my sins* and blot out all my iniquities.] Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence and take not your holy Spirit from me. Give me the joy of your saving help again and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit. I shall teach your ways to the wicked, and sinners shall return to you. Deliver me from death, O God, and my tongue shall sing of your righteousness, O God of my salvation. Open my lips, O Lord, and my mouth shall proclaim your praise. Had you desired it, I would have offered sacrifice, but you take no delight in burnt-offerings. The sacrifice of God is a troubled spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

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The Opening Prayer

The night has passed and the day lies open before us; let us pray with one heart and mind:

(Silence may be kept)

As we rejoice in the gift of this new day, so may the light of your presence, O God, set our hearts on fire with love for you; now and for ever. Amen.

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2: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 39 I said, “I will keep watch upon my ways, so that I do not offend with my tongue. I will put a muzzle on my mouth while the wicked are in my presence.” So I held my tongue and said nothing; I refrained from rash words; but my pain became unbearable.  My heart was hot within me; while I pondered, the fire burst into flame; I spoke out with my tongue: Lord, let me know my end and the number of my days, so that I may know how short my life is. You have given me a mere handful of days, and my lifetime is as nothing in your sight; truly, even those who stand erect are but a puff of wind. We walk about like a shadow, and in vain we are in turmoil; we heap up riches and cannot tell who will gather them. And now, what is my hope? O Lord, my hope is in you. Deliver me from all my transgressions and do not make me the taunt of the fool. I fell silent and did not open my mouth, for surely it was you that did it. Take your affliction from me; I am worn down by the blows of your hand. With rebukes for sin you punish us; like a moth you eat away all that is dear to us; truly, everyone is but a puff of wind. Hear my prayer, O Lord, and give ear to my cry; hold not your peace at my tears. For I am but a sojourner with you, a wayfarer, as all my forebears were. Turn your gaze from me, that I may be glad again, before I go my way and am no more.

Psalm 147:1-12 Hallelujah! How good it is to sing praises to our God! how pleasant it is to honor him with praise! The Lord rebuilds Jerusalem; he gathers the exiles of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. He counts the number of the stars and calls them all by their names. Great is our Lord and mighty in power; there is no limit to his wisdom. The Lord lifts up the lowly, but casts the wicked to the ground. Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make music to our God upon the harp. He covers the heavens with clouds and prepares rain for the earth; He makes grass to grow upon the mountains and green plants to serve mankind. He provides food for flocks and herds and for the young ravens when they cry. He is not impressed by the might of a horse; he has no pleasure in the strength of a man; But the Lord has pleasure in those who fear him, in those who await his gracious favor.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The First Lesson:

If there are two Scripture Readings, the first may be read here, or both may be read after the second canticle. 

Exod. 9:13-35

Then the Lord said to Moses, "Rise up early in the morning and present yourself before Pharaoh, and say to him, 'Thus says the Lord, the God of the Hebrews: Let my people go, so that they may worship me. For this time I will send all my plagues upon you yourself, and upon your officials, and upon your people, so that you may know that there is no one like me in all the earth. For by now I could have stretched out my hand and struck you and your people with pestilence, and you would have been cut off from the earth. But this is why I have let you live: to show you my power, and to make my name resound through all the earth. You are still exalting yourself against my people, and will not let them go. Tomorrow at this time I will cause the heaviest hail to fall that has ever fallen in Egypt from the day it was founded until now. Send, therefore, and have your livestock and everything that you have in the open field brought to a secure place; every human or animal that is in the open field and is not brought under shelter will die when the hail comes down upon them.'" Those officials of Pharaoh who feared the word of the Lord hurried their slaves and livestock off to a secure place. Those who did not regard the word of the Lord left their slaves and livestock in the open field. The Lord said to Moses, "Stretch out your hand toward heaven so that hail may fall on the whole land of Egypt, on humans and animals and all the plants of the field in the land of Egypt." Then Moses stretched out his staff toward heaven, and the Lord sent thunder and hail, and fire came down on the earth. And the Lord rained hail on the land of Egypt; there was hail with fire flashing continually in the midst of it, such heavy hail as had never fallen in all the land of Egypt since it became a nation. The hail struck down everything that was in the open field throughout all the land of Egypt, both human and animal; the hail also struck down all the plants of the field, and shattered every tree in the field. Only in the land of Goshen, where the Israelites were, there was no hail. Then Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron, and said to them, "This time I have sinned; the Lord is in the right, and I and my people are in the wrong. Pray to the Lord! Enough of God's thunder and hail! I will let you go; you need stay no longer." Moses said to him, "As soon as I have gone out of the city, I will stretch out my hands to the Lord; the thunder will cease, and there will be no more hail, so that you may know that the earth is the Lord's. But as for you and your officials, I know that you do not yet fear the Lord God." (Now the flax and the barley were ruined, for the barley was in the ear and the flax was in bud. But the wheat and the spelt were not ruined, for they are late in coming up.) So Moses left Pharaoh, went out of the city, and stretched out his hands to the Lord; then the thunder and the hail ceased, and the rain no longer poured down on the earth. But when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunder had ceased, he sinned once more and hardened his heart, he and his officials. So the heart of Pharaoh was hardened, and he would not let the Israelites go, just as the Lord had spoken through Moses.

Canticle 2: A Song of New Creation (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

‘I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, whom I have chosen.’ Thus says the Lord, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, ‘Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. ‘Behold, I make all things new; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? ‘I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, ‘The people whom I formed for myself, that they might declare my praise.’

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

I will make a way in the wilderness,* and rivers in the desert.

The Second Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

Mark 10:32-45

They were on the road, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them; they were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. He took the twelve aside again and began to tell them what was to happen to him, saying, "See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death; then they will hand him over to the Gentiles; they will mock him, and spit upon him, and flog him, and kill him; and after three days he will rise again." James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to him and said to him, "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you." And he said to them, "What is it you want me to do for you?" And they said to him, "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory." But Jesus said to them, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?" They replied, "We are able." Then Jesus said to them, "The cup that I drink you will drink; and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized; but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared." When the ten heard this, they began to be angry with James and John. So Jesus called them and said to them, "You know that among the Gentiles those whom they recognize as their rulers lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. But it is not so among you; but whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all. For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many."

Gospel Canticle: The Benedictus (Isaiah 43. 15-21)

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

Blessèd be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant, David. Through his holy prophets, he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us; He promised to show mercy to our forebears, and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father, Abraham, to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight, all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

You have given your people knowledge of salvation, O God,* by the forgiveness of their sins.

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3: The Apostles' Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

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4: The Prayers

With faith and love and in union with Christ, let us offer our prayer before the throne of grace.

• Have mercy on your people, for whom your Son laid down his life. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring healing and wholeness to people and nations, and have pity on those torn apart by division. Lord, have mercy.

• Strengthen all who are persecuted for your name’s sake, and deliver them from evil. Lord, have mercy.

• Look in mercy upon all who suffer, and hear those who cry out in pain and desolation. Lord, have mercy.

• Bring comfort to the dying, and gladden their hearts with the power of your glory. Lord, have mercy.

• Give rest to the departed and bring them, with your saints, to glory everlasting. Lord, have mercy.

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others. 

Silence may be kept.

As we rejoice in the triumph of the cross, we pray that the whole of creation may find fulfillment in the eternal kingdom of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty God, you alone can bring into order the unruly wills and affections of sinners: Grant your people grace to love what you command and desire what you promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The Conclusion

May God our Redeemer show us compassion and love.  Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.

—

EVENING PRAYER1: Confession

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept. Officiant and People together

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life.  Amen.

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2: The Preparation

O God, make speed to save us. O Lord, make haste to help us.

Let your ways be known upon earth Your saving power among the nations.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Opening Canticle: A Song of Entreaty (From Psalm 143)

Lord, hear my prayer, answer me in your righteousness. Enter not into judgement with your servant, for in your sight shall no one living be justified. My spirit faints within me; my heart within me is desolate. I spread out my hands to you; my soul gasps to you like a thirsty land. O Lord, make haste to answer me; my spirit fails me; do not hide your face from me. Let me hear of your loving-kindness in the morning, for I put my trust in you. Show me the road that I must walk, for I lift up my soul to you. Teach me to do what pleases you, for you are my God; let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Revive me, O Lord, for your name’s sake; for your righteousness’ sake, bring me out of trouble.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Opening Prayer

Stir up in us, O God, the fire of your love, that we may be cleansed of all our sins and so be made ready to come into your presence, singing your praises now and for ever. Amen.

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3: The Word of GodThe Psalmody

Psalm 69:1-23, 31-37 Save me, O God, for the waters have risen up to my neck. I am sinking in deep mire, and there is no firm ground for my feet. I have come into deep waters, and the torrent washes over me. I have grown weary with my crying; my throat is inflamed; my eyes have failed from looking for my God. Those who hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of my head; my lying foes who would destroy me are mighty. Must I then give back what I never stole? O God, you know my foolishness, and my faults are not hidden from you. Let not those who hope in you be put to shame through me, Lord God of hosts; let not those who seek you be disgraced because of me, O God of Israel. Surely, for your sake have I suffered reproach, and shame has covered my face. I have become a stranger to my own kindred, an alien to my mother’s children. Zeal for your house has eaten me up; the scorn of those who scorn you has fallen upon me. I humbled myself with fasting, but that was turned to my reproach. I put on sack-cloth also, and became a byword among them. Those who sit at the gate murmur against me, and the drunkards make songs about me. But as for me, this is my prayer to you, at the time you have set, O Lord: “In your great mercy, O God, answer me with your unfailing help. Save me from the mire; do not let me sink; let me be rescued from those who hate me and out of the deep waters. Let not the torrent of waters wash over me, neither let the deep swallow me up; do not let the Pit shut its mouth upon me. Answer me, O Lord, for your love is kind; in your great compassion, turn to me.” “Hide not your face from your servant; be swift and answer me, for I am in distress. Draw near to me and redeem me; because of my enemies deliver me. You know my reproach, my shame, and my dishonor; my adversaries are all in your sight.” Reproach has broken my heart, and it cannot be healed; I looked for sympathy, but there was none, for comforters, but I could find no one. They gave me gall to eat, and when I was thirsty, they gave me vinegar to drink. - As for me, I am afflicted and in pain; your help, O God, will lift me up on high. I will praise the Name of God in song; I will proclaim his greatness with thanksgiving. This will please the Lord more than an offering of oxen, more than bullocks with horns and hoofs. The afflicted shall see and be glad; you who seek God, your heart shall live. For the Lord listens to the needy, and his prisoners he does not despise. Let the heavens and the earth praise him, the seas and all that moves in them; For God will save Zion and rebuild the cities of Judah; they shall live there and have it in possession.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Second Canticle: The Song of Christ's Glory (Philippians 2. 5b-11)

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

Christ Jesus was in the form of God, but he did not cling to equality with God. He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, and was born in our human likeness. Being found in human form, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross; Therefore, God has highly exalted him, and bestowed on him the name above every name, That at the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth. And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

At the name of Jesus* every knee shall bow.

The Lesson:

One or more readings appointed for the day are read. The reading(s) may be followed by a time of silence. 

2 Cor. 4:1-12

Therefore, since it is by God's mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose heart. We have renounced the shameful things that one hides; we refuse to practice cunning or to falsify God's word; but by the open statement of the truth we commend ourselves to the conscience of everyone in the sight of God. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your slaves for Jesus' sake. For it is the God who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be made visible in our bodies. For while we live, we are always being given up to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus may be made visible in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you.

Gospel Canticle: The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55)

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior; for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, The promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:  as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

Come, let us return to the Lord,* for our God will richly pardon.

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4: The Prayers

In the love of God, let us complete our evening sacrifice of praise.

• For the unity and peace of the holy Church of God throughout the world: Lord, have mercy.

• For the peace and stability of all peoples and for those in authority: Lord, have mercy. 

• For our own country and its national life and for all who dwell among us: Lord, have mercy. 

• For a blessing on our homes, for our relations and friends and all whom we love: Lord, have mercy.

• For the sick and the suffering and for all who minister to their needs: Lord, have mercy. 

• For all who sleep in Christ, that Christ will remember them in his heavenly kingdom: Lord, have mercy. 

Take a moment at this time to reflect and pray for others.  Silence may be kept.

Rejoicing in the fellowship of the blessèd Virgin Mary, (Saint N.) and all the saints, let us commend ourselves into the mighty hands of God:

The Collect:

The collect of the day (see lectionary) or the following may be used: 

Almighty God, you alone can bring into order the unruly wills and affections of sinners: Grant your people grace to love what you command and desire what you promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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 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, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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5: The ConclusionCHRISTARAKSHA (from the BCP of the Church of India, Pakistan, Burma and Ceylon)

May the cross of the Son of God, which is mightier than all the hosts of Satan and more glorious than all the hosts of heaven, abide with you in your going out and your coming in. By day and night, at morning and at evening, at all times and in all places     may it protect and defend you. From the wrath of evildoers, from the assaults of evil spirits, from foes visible and invisible, from the snares of the devil, from all passions that beguile the soul and body: may it guard, protect and deliver you. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord. Thanks be to God.