Holy Communion 1549 

The Litany or General Supplication

Here follows the LITANY, or General Supplication, which is to be used after the Third Prayer at Morning on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, or Evening Prayer; or before the Holy Communion; or separately; or whenever the Ordinary shall command its use.

O GOD our Father in heaven, Creator of heaven and earth, have mercy on us sinners;

O God our Father in heaven, Creator of heaven and earth, have mercy on us.

O God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us sinners; 

O God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us. 

O God the Holy Spirit, Proceeding from the Father and the Son, Sanctifier of the faithful, have mercy on us sinners; 

O God the Holy Spirit, Proceeding from the Father and the Son, Sanctifier of the faithful, have mercy on us. 

O holy, blessed, and glorious Trinity, three Persons and one God, have mercy on us sinners; 

O holy, blessed, and glorious Trinity, three Persons and one God, have mercy on us.

Saint Mary, Mother of God our Savior Jesus Christ,

Pray for us.

All holy Angels and Archangels, and all holy orders of blessed Spirits,

Pray for us.

All holy Patriarchs and Prophets; Apostles, Martyrs, Confessors, and Virgins; and all the blessed Company of heaven,

Pray for us.

O Lord do not remember our offenses, nor the offenses of our ancestors; do not take vengeance upon us for our sins: Spare us, good Lord, spare your people, whom you have redeemed with your most precious blood, and do not be angry with us forever.  

Spare us, good Lord.

From all evil and mischief; from sin; from the crafts and assaults of the devil; from your wrath, and from everlasting damnation,

Good Lord, deliver us.

From all blindness of heart; from pride, conceit, desire to impress others, and hypocrisy; from envy, hatred, and malice, and judgmental attitudes and unkindness, 

Good Lord, deliver us.

From sexual sin and all other deadly sins; and from all the deceits of the world, the flesh, and the devil, 

Good Lord, deliver us.

From lightning and tempest; from earthquake, fire, and flood; from plague, pestilence, and famine; from battle and murder, and from sudden death, 

Good Lord, deliver us.

From all sedition, secret scheming, and rebellion; from all false doctrine, heresy, and schism; from hardness of heart, and contempt of your Word and Commandment, 

Good Lord, deliver us.

By the mystery of your holy Incarnation; by your holy Nativity and Circumcision; by your Baptism, Fasting, and Temptation, 

Good Lord, deliver us.

By your Agony and Bloody Sweat; by your Cross and Passion; by your precious Death and Burial; by your glorious Resurrection and Ascension, and by the Coming of the Holy Spirit, 

Good Lord, deliver us.

In all of our tribulations; in all of our prosperity; in the hour of death, and in the day of judgment, 

Good Lord, deliver us.

WE sinners earnestly ask you to hear us, O Lord God; and that it may please you to rule and govern your holy Church universal in the right way; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to rule the heart of your servant, ( Ruler, King, Prime Minister, President), that he may above all things seek your honor and glory; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to bless and preserve all Christian Rulers and Officials, giving them grace to execute justice, and to maintain truth; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to illuminate all Bishops, Priests, and Deacons, with true knowledge and understanding of your Word; and that both by their preaching and living they may plainly make it known, and show it by the examples of their lives; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to send forth laborers into your harvest; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to bless, guard and watch over all your people; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give to all nations unity, peace, and concord; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give us an heart to love and reverence you, and diligently to live in obedience to your commandments; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give to all your people increase of grace to meekly hear your Word, and to receive it with pure devotion, and to bring forth the fruits of the Spirit; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to bring into the way of truth all such as have erred, and are deceived; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to strengthen those who stand faithful; and to comfort and help the weak-hearted; and to raise up those who fall; and finally to beat down Satan under our feet; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to succour, help, and comfort, all who are in danger, necessity, and tribulation; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to preserve all who travel by land, by water, by air, or by space, all women in child-birth, all sick persons, and young children; and to show your pity upon all prisoners and captives—especially those imprisoned or persecuted for faith in you; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to defend, and provide for, the fatherless children, and widows, and all who are desolate and oppressed; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to have mercy upon all men; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to forgive our enemies, persecutors, and slanderers, and to turn their hearts; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give and preserve for our use the natural fruits of the earth, so that in we may enjoy them at the proper time, and to bless and provide for our daily income and sustenance; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give us true repentance; to forgive us all our sins, carelessness, and acts of ignorance; and to endue us with the grace of your Holy Spirit to correct our lives according to your holy Word; 

We earnestly ask you to hear us, good Lord. 

Son of God, we earnestly ask you to hear us. 

Son of God, we earnestly ask you to hear us. 

O Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world; 

Grant us your peace. 

O Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world; 

Have mercy upon us. 

O Christ, hear us. 

O Christ, hear us. 

Lord, have mercy upon us. 

Lord, have mercy upon us. 

Christ, have mercy upon us. 

Christ, have mercy upon us. 

Lord, have mercy upon us. 

Lord, have mercy upon us. 

Then shall the Minister, and the People with him, say the Lord's Prayer.

OUR FATHER, Who is in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen. 

(Matthew 6.9-13)

The Minister may, at his discretion, omit all that follows, to the Prayer, “We humbly earnestly ask you, O Father, etc.”

Minister. O LORD, do not deal with us according to our sins. 

Nor reward us according to our iniquities. 

(Psalm 103.10)

Let us pray.

O GOD, merciful Father, who cares deeply about the mourning of a repentant heart, and the desire of those who are sorrowful; Mercifully help us with our prayers which we pray to you in all our troubles and adversities, whenever they oppress us; and graciously hear us, that those evils which the craft and cunning of the devil or man work against us, may, by your good providence, be brought to nothing; so that we your servants, not being hurt by persecutions, may forever give thanks to you in your holy Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

(1 Corinthians 1.27; Psalm 56.1; 119.134; 138.1-8; Matthew 6.13; Ephesians 4.20; Matthew 5.8)

Minister and People.

O Lord, arise, help us, and deliver us for your Name's sake.

(Psalm 44.26)

Minister. 

O GOD, we have heard with our ears, and our fathers have declared unto us, the noble works that you did in their days, and in the old time before them.

(Psalm 44.1)

Minister and People.

O Lord, arise, help us, and deliver us for your honor.

(Psalm 44.26; 79.9)

Minister.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. 

(Psalm 90.2; Ephesians 3.21; Revelation 4.8)

From our enemies defend us, O Christ. 

Graciously look upon our afflictions. 

With pity look upon the sorrows of our hearts. 

Mercifully forgive the sins of your people. 

Favorably hear our prayers with mercy. 

O Son of David, have mercy upon us. 

Both now and ever grant that you will hear us, O Christ. 

Graciously hear us, O Christ; graciously hear us, O Lord Christ.

O Lord, let your mercy be shown upon us; 

For we put our trust in you.

Let us pray.

WE humbly ask you earnestly, O Father, mercifully to look upon our infirmities; and, for the glory of your Name, turn away from us all those evils that we most justly have deserved; and grant, that in all our troubles we may put our whole trust and confidence in your mercy, and forever serve you in holiness and pureness of living, to your honor and glory; through our only Mediator and Advocate, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Almighty God, who has given us grace at this time to make our common supplications to you with one accord, and promises that when two or three are gathered together in your Name you will grant their requests: O Lord, now fulfill the desires and petitions of your servants, as is best for them, granting knowledge of your truth in this world and in the world to come life everlasting. Amen.

The Minister may end the Litany here with the following benediction, or at his discretion add other prayers from this Book.

2 Corinthians 13:14

Priest: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all forevermore. Amen.

THE SUPPER OF THE LORD AND THE HOLY COMMUNION, COMMONLY CALLED THE MASS. 1549

Here the Psalm of the Day shall be sung or read. (Processional hymn may be sung). The Priest standing humbly before (the people behind him) the middle of the Altar, shall say the Lord’s prayer, with this Prayer for Purity.

OUR FATHER, Who is in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. 

The Prayer for Purity

ALMIGHTY GOD, all hearts are open to you, all desires known to you and from you no secrets are hidden. Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that we may love you perfectly and magnify your Holy Name in a worthy manner; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Incense

Deacon/Acolyte: Bless, O most reverend Father.

Priest: Be blessed by Him in Whose honor you will be burnt. Amen.

Introit Psalm

Then a PSALM shall be said that is appointed for the introit: when the Psalm ends the Priest shall say, or else the Choir/people shall sing,

i.  Lord have mercy upon us.

ii. Christ have mercy upon us.
iii. Lord have mercy upon us.

Then the Priest standing at God’s borde shall begin,

Priest: Glory be to God on high, 

Choir/Laity: and on earth peace, good will towards men. We praise You, we bless You, we worship You, we glorify You, we give thanks to You for Your great glory, O Lord God, heavenly King, God the Father Almighty. 

O Lord, the only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ; O Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, Who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us. You Who takes away the sins of the world, receive our prayer. You Who sits at the right hand of God the Father, have mercy upon us. 

For You Only are holy; You Only are the Lord; You Only, O Christ, with the Holy Spirit, are most high in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Priest:    The Lord be with you. 

Answer: And with your spirit. 

Priest:    Let us pray.

Then shall be said the PRAYER FOR THE DAY followed by the following prayers.

Reading of The Old Testament

And immediately after the PRAYER may be read an OLD TESTAMENT Lesson, the Reader first saying, The Reading (Lesson) from _____, chapter _____, beginning at the_____ verse. 

The Old Testament Lesson being ended, the Reader may say, 

Reader: This is the Word of the Lord. 

Respond: Thanks be to God. 

After the Old Testament Lesson shall be said or sung a PSALM or Canticle, ending with the Gloria Patri. 

Reading of The Epistle

Then shall be read the EPISTLE Lesson, the Reader first saying, 

The Reading (Lesson) from the Epistle_____, chapter _____, beginning at the _____ verse. The Epistle being ended, the Reader may say,  

Reader: This is the Word of the Lord. 

Respond: Thanks be to God. 

Here may be sung a HYMN or an ANTHEM. 

Procession of the Gospel. Incense is used.

Reading of The Holy Gospel

Then, all the people standing, the Minister appointed shall read the GOSPEL, first saying, The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. _____, chapter _____, beginning at the _____ verse. 

In response to the announcement of the Gospel shall be said, 

Priest: Glory be to You, O Lord.

And after the Gospel, the Minister shall say, The Gospel of the Lord, the people then responding, 

Answer: Praise be to You, O Christ.

Then the Nicene Creed shall be said. The Creed may be omitted if it has been said immediately before in Morning Prayer.

Nicene Creed

I BELIEVE in One God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, And of all things visible and invisible:

And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God; Begotten of his Father before all worlds, God of God, Light of Light, Very God of Very God; Begotten, not made; Being of one substance with the Father; By whom all things were made: Who for us men and for our salvation came down from heaven, And was incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the Virgin Mary, And was made man: And was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate; He suffered and was buried: And the third day he rose again according to the Scriptures: And ascended into heaven, And sits on the right hand of the Father: And he shall come again, with glory, to judge both the living and the dead; Whose kingdom shall have no end.

And I believe in the Holy Spirit, The Lord and Giver of Life, Who proceeds from the Father and the Son; Who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified; Who spoke by the Prophets: And I believe in one holy Catholic and Apostolic Church: I acknowledge one Baptism for the remission of sins: And I look for the Resurrection of the dead: And the Life of the world to come. Amen.

Upon these feasts: Christmas Day, the Epiphany, St. Matthias, Easter Day, Ascension Day, Pentecost (Whitsunday), St. John the Baptist, St. James, St. Bartholomew, St. Matthew, St. Simon and St. Jude, St. Andrew, and Trinity Sunday, shall be said or sung at Morning Prayer, or at any other service the Minister, at his discretion, deems necessary, instead of the Apostle’s Creed, this confession of our Christian Faith, called the Creed of St. Athanasius, by the Minister and people, all standing.

This statement of Biblical Faith is the fullest expression of Trinitarian Christianity.

The Athanasian Creed (Quicunque vult)

WHOSOEVER will be saved, before all things it is necessary that he hold the catholic Faith. Which Faith except every one do keep whole and undefiled, without doubt he shall perish everlastingly.

And the catholic Faith is this: That we worship one God in Trinity, and Trinity in Unity; Neither confounding the Persons, nor dividing the Substance.

For there is one Person of the Father, another of the Son, and another of the Holy Spirit. But the Godhead of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, is all one: the glory equal, the majesty coeternal. Such as the Father is, such is the Son, and such is the Holy Spirit. The Father uncreated, the Son uncreated, and the Holy Spirit uncreated. The Father incomprehensible, the Son incomprehensible, and the Holy Spirit incomprehensible. The Father eternal, the Son eternal, and the Holy Spirit eternal; And yet they are not three eternals, but one Eternal. As also there are not three incomprehensibles, nor three uncreated, but one Uncreated and one Incomprehensible. So likewise the Father is almighty, the Son almighty, and the Holy Spirit almighty; And yet they are not three almighties, but one Almighty.

So the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God; And yet they are not three Gods, but one God. So likewise the Father is Lord, the Son Lord, and the Holy Spirit Lord; And yet not three Lords, but one Lord. For as we are compelled by the Christian truth to acknowledge every Person by himself to be God and Lord; So are we forbidden by the catholic Faith to say there are three Gods, or three Lords. The Father is made of none, neither created, nor begotten. The Son is of the Father alone, not made, nor created, but begotten. The Holy Spirit is of the Father and of the Son, neither made, nor created, nor begotten, but proceeding. So there is one Father, not three Fathers; one Son, not three Sons; one Holy Spirit, not three Holy Spirits.

And in this Trinity none is before or after other; none is greater or less than another; But the whole three Persons are co-eternal together and co-equal. So that in all things, the Unity in Trinity and the Trinity in Unity is to be worshiped. He therefore that will be saved must thus think of the

Trinity.

Furthermore, it is necessary to everlasting salvation that he also believe rightly the Incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ. For the true Faith is that we believe and confess that our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is God and Man;

God, of the Substance of the Father, begotten before the worlds; and Man, of the Substance of his Mother, born in the world; Perfect God, and perfect Man, of a reasonable soul and human flesh subsisting; Equal to the Father, as touching his Godhead; and inferior to the Father, as touching his Manhood.

Who although he is God and Man, yet he is not two, but one Christ; One, not by conversion of the Godhead into flesh, but by taking of the Manhood unto God; One altogether, not by confusion of Substance, but by unity of Person. 

For as the reasonable soul and flesh is one man, so God and Man is one Christ, Who suffered for our salvation, descended into hell, and rose again the third day from the dead; He ascended into heaven; he sits on the right hand of the Father, God Almighty, from whence he shall come to judge the living and the dead. At whose coming all men shall rise again with their bodies, and shall give account for their own works. And they that have done good shall go into life everlasting; and they that have done evil, into everlasting fire.

This is the catholic Faith, which except a man believe faithfully, he cannot be saved.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, forever and ever. Amen.

(Psalm 90.2; Ephesians 3.21; Revelation 4.8)

Here a HYMN may be sung.

The SERMON immediately follows.

ANNOUNCEMENTS and NOTICE may be said after the sermon.

Exhortation

After the Creed is finished the SERMON or Homily shall follow, or some portion of one of the Homilies, as they are hereafter called: wherein if the people are not exhorted to the worthy receiving of the holy sacrament of the Body and Blood of our Saviour Christ, then shall the Priest give this exhortation to those that intend to receive the same, the people standing.

Note: the Exhortation shall be said on the First Sunday in Advent, the First Sunday in Lent, and Trinity Sunday at a minimum.

DEARLY beloved in the Lord, those of you who intend to come and partake of the Holy Communion of the Body and Blood of our Saviour Christ must consider how Saint Paul exhorts all persons diligently to examine themselves before they presume to eat of the Bread and drink of the Cup. Since the benefit is great, if with a true penitent heart and vigorous faith we receive  the Holy Sacrament, so the danger is great if we receive it unworthily. Therefore, honestly analyse yourselves so that the Lord will not judge you. Truly repent of the sins you have committed in the past. Have a vigorous and steadfast faith in Christ our Saviour. Correct your lives and be in perfect love with all people. Do these things so you will be fitting partakers of the Holy Mysteries.  Above all things you must give most humble and wholehearted thanks to God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, for the redemption of the world by the death and passion of our Saviour Christ, who is both fully God and fully man. He humbled himself, even to death upon the Cross for us miserable sinners, because we lay in darkness and the shadow of death. He did this that he might make us the children of God and exalt us to everlasting life. The outcome is, that we should always remember the exceeding great love of our Master and only Saviour Jesus Christ. We must remember his dying for us and the countless benefits that his shedding of his precious blood he obtained for us. He instituted and ordained Holy Mysteries as pledges of his love and for a continual remembrance of his death, to our great and endless comfort. To him therefore, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, let us give continual thanks as we are obligated to do. Let us submit ourselves completely to his holy will and pleasure and be diligent to serve him in true holiness and righteousness all the days of our life. Amen. 

In Cathedral churches or other places, where there is daily Communion it shall be sufficient to read this exhortation above written, once in a month. And in parish churches, upon the week days it may be left unsaid.

¶ And if upon the Sunday or holydays the people be negligent to come to the Communion: Then shall the Priest earnestly exhorts his parishioners, to dispose themselves to the receiving of the holy communion more diligently, saying these or like words unto them.

DEAR friends, and those especially whose souls I have cured and charged, I do intend by God’s grace, to offer you all such that those incline to be godly, the most comfortable Sacrament of the body and blood of Christ, taking them in the remembrance of his most fruitful and glorious Passion: by which his passion we have obtained remission of our sins, and be made partakers of the kingdom of heaven, so be assured and ascertained, if we come to the sacred Sacrament, with hearty repentance for our offences, the steadfast faith in God’s mercy, and an earnest mind to obey God’s will, and to offend him no more. Wherefore our duty is, to come to these Holy Mysteries, with most hearty thanks to be given to Almighty God, for his infinite mercy and benefits given and bestowed upon us, his unworthy servants, for whom he has not only given his body to death, and shed his blood, but also did vouchsafe in a Sacrament and Mystery, to give us his sacred body and blood to feed upon him. The Sacrament being so divine and holy, and so comfortable to those who worthily receive it, and so dangerous to those who presume to take it unworthily: It is my duty to exhort you in each season, to consider the greatness of it, and to search and examine your own consciences, and that you shall not take it lightly nor behave in disguise before God: But should come to the most godly and heavenly Banquet, but not coming in the marriage garment required of God in scripture, so that you may (and what is in you) be found worthy to come to such a table. Therefore, the ways and means are:
Firstly, you need to be truly repentant of your former evil life, and that you confess with an unfainted heart to almighty God, your sins and unkindness committed towards his Majesty, either by thought, word or deed, knowingly or unknowingly; and as such by your inward sorrow and tears you moan your offences, and ask Almighty God for mercy and pardon, promising to him (from the bottom of your heart) to amend your former life. 

And among all others, I am commanded by God, especially to move and exhort you to reconcile yourselves to your neighbors, whom you have offended, or who have offended you; putting away your hearts all hatred and malice against them, and to be in love and charity with all the world, and to forgive each other, just as you would that God should forgive you. And if any man has done wrong to any other: let him make satisfaction, and due restitutions of all properties and goods, either wrongfully taken away or withheld, or at the least be mindful and purposefully do so, before he comes at God’s altar, as soon as he is able; or else you should not come before the Holy Altar, thinking you can deceive God who sees all men’s heart. For neither the absolution of the Priest can take away from them, nor the receiving of this holy sacrament do anything but increase their damnation.

And if any of you whose conscience is troubled and grieved in anything, lacking comfort or counsel, let him come to me, or in his discretion go to another learned Priest; who is taught in the law of God, so you can confess and open your sin and grief secretly; so you may receive such spiritual counsel, advise, and comfort, that your conscience may be relieved. And from us (as the ministers of God and of the Church), you may receive comfort and absolution, to the satisfaction of your mind, and avoid all scruple and doubtfulness: If any person as such shall be satisfied with a general confession, should not be offended with them who uses it, but for their further satisfaction, by auricular and secret confession to the Priest: Neither those who also think needful or convenient, for the quietness of their own consciences, particularly to open their sins to the Priest, should not be offended with them who are satisfied, by their humble confession to God, and the general confession to the Church. But in all things follow and keep the rule of charity, and every man to be satisfied with his own conscience, not judging other person’s minds or consciences; where he has no warrant of God’s word to the same.

Offertory

After the sermon, if Communion is to take place, the Priest shall return to the Holy Table, and begin the Offertory, saying one or more of the following Sentences, as he deems appropriate. 

Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5.16

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. Matthew 6.19-20

Whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7.12

Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Matthew 7.21

Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” Luke 19.8

Do you not know that those who are employed in the temple service get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in the sacrificial offerings? In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel. 1 Corinthians 9.13-14

Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.  2 Corinthians 9.6-7

Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. Galatians 6.6-7

So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6.10

But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. 1 Timothy 6.6-7

As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life. 1 Timothy 6.17-19

God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. Hebrews 6.10 

Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13.16

But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? 1 St John 3.17

Give alms from your possessions to all who live uprightly and do not let your eye begrudge the gift when you make it. Do not turn your face away from any poor man, and the face of God will not be turned away from you.  Tobit 4.7

If you have many possessions, make your gift from them in proportion; if few, do not be afraid to give according to the little you have. So you will be laying up a good treasure for yourself against the day of necessity.  Tobit 4.8-9

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed. Proverbs 19.17

Blessed is the one who considers the poor! In the day of trouble the Lord delivers him. Psalm 41.1

While the gifts of the people are being gathered, there may be sung a HYMN or an ANTHEM. 

At the same time the Presbyter shall prepare the Table and arrange such Bread and Wine on the Table as he shall think sufficient. When the alms for the poor and other offerings of the people have been received by the Deacons, church-wardens, or other fit persons appointed for that purpose, they shall be brought to the Presbyter who shall humbly present and place them upon the holy Table.

The Offering of the congregation having been gathered, it may be dedicated to the Lord in these words following, or the Long Meter DOXOLOGY, or other suitable words, said or sung.

All things come from you, O Lord, and of your own have we given you. Amen. 1 Chronicles 29.14

The priest washes his hands.

Bring forth the Bread and Chalice.

Addition from Sarum Rite

During the Offertory, the alms of the faithful were collected as in the present English rite. After this came the oblation of the elements. The "Sacrifice" was the technical term (answering to "Host") for the large chalice. The priest reverently placed it in its accustomed place in the midst of the Altar, and bowing for a space, elevated the chalice with both hands, offering the sacrifice to God, saying this prayer of oblation. 

RECEIVE, O HOLY TRINITY, this oblation, which I, unworthy sinner, offer to Your honour, and that of all saints, for my sins and offences: for the health of the living and the repose of all the faithful departed. 

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, may this sacrifice be acceptable to Almighty God.

This done, he replaces the chalice, and puts the bread reverently upon corporals, in front of the chalice, and having kissed the paten, places it upon the Altar to the right of the sacrifice, and covers all with corporals. Having done which he receives the censer from the Deacon, and incenses the sacrifice thrice in the form of a cross, and round the chalice and sacrifice; and then he incenses the place between himself and the Altar, saying meanwhile this verse: 

Censing the altar: LET my prayer be set forth,  LORD,  as the incense in the sight of Your Majesty. 

After this, the Priest is incensed by the Deacon, and the Sub-Deacon gives him the Text to kiss: then the acolyte incenses the Choir…

This done, the Priest goes to the right corner of the Altar, and clasps his hands, saying, 

CLEANSE me, Lord, from every defilement of mind and body; that I may be able purely to perform the holy work of the Lord. 

Then standing before the Altar, with head and body bowed down, and with hands joined, he says this prayer: 

IN the spirit of humility and contrition of heart, may we be acceptable to You, LORD; and so order our sacrifice in Your 

sight, that it may this day be accepted by You, and be pleasing to You, LORD my GOD. 

(Romans 12:1; Hebrews 10:19-20; 1 Peter 2:5; 1 Corinthians 6:20)

And raising himself up, he kisses the Altar to the right of the sacrifice, and giving his blessing upon the sacrifice, he afterwards signs himself saying, 

IN the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Then turning himself to the people, he says with a low voice, 

PRAY, brothers and sisters, for me, that this sacrifice, yours equally with mine, may be accepted by the Lord our God. 

(2 Timothy 4.6; Philippians 2.17; Romans 12.1; 1 Corinthians 6.20; 1 Peter 2.5; Leviticus 2; Exodus 29.40-41; Leviticus 6.14-23; Hebrews 10.10)

The clerks reply, privately, 

MAY the grace of the Holy Spirit illumine your heart and lips, and may the LORD accept this sacrifice of praise at your hands, for our sins and offences. 

Afterwards, the Priest shall say:

Priest:    The Lord be with you.

Answer: And with your spirit.

Priest:    Lift up your hearts.

Answer: We lift them up to the Lord.

Priest:     Let us give thanks to our Lord God.

Answer: It is right and proper to do so.

Then the Priest shall turn to the Holy Table and say:

It is very proper, right, and our obligation, that we should at all times, and in all places, give thanks to You, O Lord, Holy Father, Almighty, Everlasting God.

Here shall follow the Proper Preface, according to the time, if there is any specially appointed; or else immediately shall be said or sung by the Priest:

THEREFORE with Angels and Archangels, and with all the company of heaven, we laud and magnify Your glorious Name; evermore praising You, and saying:

Priest and the People: HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, Lord God of hosts, Heaven and earth are full of your glory: Glory be to you, O Lord Most High. Amen.

Or sing:

Everyone: HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, Lord God of hosts, Heaven and earth are full of your glory: Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.

PROPER PREFACES

CHRISTMAS.

Upon Christmas Day, and seven days after.

YOU gave your Only-Begotten Son Jesus Christ to be born as at this time for us. He was made very man of the substance of the Virgin Mary his mother by the operation of the Holy Spirit, and he is without spot of sin in order to make us clean from all sin. 

Therefore with Angels, etc.

EPIPHANY.

Upon The Epiphany, and seven days after.

THROUGH Jesus Christ our Lord, in substance of our mortal flesh, manifested forth his glory that he might bring us out of darkness into his own glorious light. 

    Therefore with Angels, etc.

PURIFICATION, ANNUNCIATION, AND TRANSFIGURATION.

Upon the Purification, Annunciation, and Transfiguration.

IN the Mystery of the Word made flesh, you caused a new light to shine in our hearts, to give the knowledge of your glory in the face of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

    Therefore with Angels, etc.

EASTER.

Upon Easter-day, and seven days after.

ABOVE all we are obligated to praise you for the glorious Resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. He is the very Paschal Lamb, which was offered for us and has taken away the sin of the world. By his death he has destroyed death and by his rising to life again has restored to us everlasting life. 

    Therefore with Angels, etc.

ASCENSION.

Upon Ascension-day, and seven days after.

AFTER his most glorious Resurrection, your most dearly beloved Son Jesus Christ our Lord manifestly appeared to all his Apostles. In their sight he ascended up into heaven to prepare a place for us, so that where he is, there we might also ascend and reign with him in glory. 

    Therefore with Angels, etc.

PENTECOST or WHITSUNTIDE.

Upon the Feast of Pentecost, also called Whitsunday, and six days after.

THROUGH Jesus Christ our Lord the Holy Spirit came down as at this time from heaven, lighting upon the Apostles according to his most true promise. The Holy Spirit came to teach them and to lead them into all truth, giving them boldness with fervent zeal constantly to preach the Gospel to all nations. By means of this, we have been brought out of darkness and error into the clear light and true knowledge of you, and of your Son Jesus Christ. 

    Therefore with Angels, etc.

TRINITY SUNDAY.

Upon the Feast of Trinity only.

YOU, with Your only-begotten Son, and the Holy Spirit, are one God, one Lord, in Trinity of Persons and in Unity of Substance. For that which we believe of your glory, O Father, the same we believe of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, without any difference of inequality.

    Therefore with Angels, etc.

Or this.

FOR the precious death and merits of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, and for the sending to us of the Holy Spirit, the Comforter; who are one with you in your Eternal Godhead. 

    Therefore with Angels, etc.

ALL SAINTS.

Upon All Saints’ Day, and seven days after.

YOU, in the multitude of your saints, encompassed us with so great a cloud of witnesses that we, rejoicing in their fellowship, may run with patience the race that is set before us and together with them may receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.

Therefore with Angels and Archangels, and with all the company of heaven, we laud and magnify your glorious Name; evermore praising you, and saying:

Priest and People: HOLY, HOLY, HOLY, Lord God of, hosts, Heaven and earth are full of your glory: Glory be to you, O Lord Most High. Amen

Or sing the following 

HOLY, HOLY, HOLY Lord God of hosts, heaven and earth are full of your glory; Hosanna in the highest, blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, hosanna in the highest.

When the hymn is finished the priest shall say, 

Let us pray for the whole state of Christ’s Church.

Then the priest, turning to the altar, will pray plainly and distinctly,

ALMIGHTY and everliving God, by your holy Apostle you taught us to make prayers, and supplications, and to give thanks for all men. We humbly beg you to most mercifully accept our [alms and] oblations, and to receive our prayers, which we offer to your Divine Majesty. We implore you to inspire continually the Universal Church with the spirit of truth, unity, and concord. Grant that all those who do confess your holy Name may agree in the truth of your holy Word and live in unity and godly love.

    We entreat you also, to direct and influence the hearts of all Christian Rulers, so that they may truly and impartially administer justice, to the punishment of wickedness and vice, and the maintenance of your true religion and virtue.

    Give grace, O heavenly Father, to all Bishops, Priests, Deacons, and other Ministers, that both by their life and doctrine, they may make known your true and life-giving Word, and rightly and duly administer your holy Sacraments.

    And to all your People give your heavenly grace, so that with meek heart and due reverence, they may hear and receive your holy Word, truly serving you in holiness and righteousness all the days of their life.

    And we most humbly entreat you, of your goodness, O Lord, to comfort and give aid to all those who, in this transitory life, are in trouble, sorrow, need, sickness, or any other adversity.

And especially we commend unto your merciful goodness, this congregation which is here assembled in your name to celebrate the commemoration of the most glorious death of your Son. For this we give to you most high praise and heartfelt thanks for the wonderful grace and virtue declared in all your saints, from the beginning of the world. Especially for that grace and virtue in the glorious and most blessed virgin Mary, mother of Your Son Jesus Christ our Lord and God, and in the holy Patriarchs, Prophets, Apostles and Martyrs, whose examples, O Lord, and steadfastness in your faith, and keeping your holy commandments, grant that we are enabled to follow.

We commend unto your mercy, O Lord, all other servants, who have departed, with the sign of faith, and now resting in the sleep of peace: Grant unto them, we beseech you, your mercy, and everlasting peace, and that, at the day of the general resurrection, we and all the rest in the mystical body of your Son, may altogether be set on his right hand, and hear his most joyful voice: “Come unto me, O you that are blessed by my Father, and possess the kingdom, which is prepared for you from the beginning of the world”: Grant this, O Father, for Jesus Christ’s sake, our only Mediator and Advocate. Amen.

CONSECRATION

ALMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, because you, of your tender mercy, gave your only Son Jesus Christ to suffer death upon the Cross for our redemption; who made there, by his one oblation of himself once offered, a full, perfect, and sufficient sacrifice, oblation, and satisfaction for the sins of the whole world; and instituted, and in his holy Gospel commanded us to continue a perpetual memory of his precious death and sacrifice until his coming again: Hear us, O merciful Father, we most humbly entreat you, and with Your Holy Spirit and word, vouchsafe to bless ✠ and sanctify ✠ these Your gifts, and creations of bread and wine, that they may be unto us the body and blood of Your most dearly beloved Son Jesus Christ. Who in the night in which he was betrayed, He took bread (a); and when he had given thanks, he broke it (b), and gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat, (c) this is my Body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me. Likewise, after supper (d) He took the cup; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, Drink of this, all of you; (e) this is my blood of the New Covenant, which is shed for you, and for many, for the remission of sins; do this, as often as you shall drink of it, in remembrance of me.  Amen.

(a)Here the Priest takes the paten in his hands.

(b) And here he breaks the bread.

(c) And here he lays hands on all the bread.

(d) Here he takes the chalice in his hands.

(e) And here he lays hands on every vessel in which there is any wine to be consecrated.

These words previously said are to be said while facing the Altar and without elevating or showing the sacrament to the people.

WHEREFORE O Lord and heavenly Father, according to the institution of your dearly beloved Son our Saviour Jesus Christ, we, your humble servants celebrate and make here before your Divine Majesty with these your holy gifts, which we now offer unto you, the memorial your Son commanded us to make. This is in remembrance of his blessed passion and precious death, his mighty resurrection and glorious ascension. We render unto you genuine thanks for the innumerable benefits procured unto us by them. We earnestly desire your fatherly goodness mercifully to accept this our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving. We most humbly implore you to grant that, by the merits and death of your Son Jesus Christ, and through faith in his blood, we, and all your whole Church, may obtain remission of our sins, and all other benefits of his passion. O Lord, here we offer and present unto you ourselves, our souls, and bodies to be a reasonable, holy, and living sacrifice unto you. We humbly implore you, that we, and all others who shall be partakers of this Holy Communion, may worthily receive the most precious Body and Blood of your Son Jesus Christ, be filled with your grace and heavenly benediction, and made one body with him, that he may dwell in us, and we in him. Although we are unworthy, through our manifold sins, to offer unto you any sacrifice; yet we implore you to accept this our obligatory duty and service. We request that these our prayers and supplications, by the ministry of Your holy angels, be brought up into your holy Tabernacle before the sight of your Divine Majesty. We ask that you not weigh our merits, but pardon our offences, through Jesus Christ our Lord; by whom, and with whom, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory be unto you, O Father Almighty, world without end. Amen.

Let us pray.

And now, as our Saviour Christ has commanded and taught us, we are bold to say,

Everyone: OUR FATHER, Who is in heaven, hallowed be Your Name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. 

Priest: THE peace of the Lord be always with you.

Respond: And with your spirit.

Priest: CHRIST our Pascal Lamb is offered up for us, once-for-all, when he bore our sins on his body upon the cross, for he is the very Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world: wherefore let us keep a joyful and holy feast with the Lord.

Now the priest shall turn and face the congregation and say,

You who do truly and earnestly repent of your sins, are in love and charity with your neighbours, intend to lead a new life following the commandments of God, and walking from this time forth in his holy ways: Draw near with faith, and take this holy Sacrament to your comfort, and make your humble confession to Almighty God, devoutly kneeling.

Then the General Confession shall be made, both by the Priest and those who intend to receive Holy Communion while humbly kneeling.

Kneel

ALMIGHTY God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Maker of all things, Judge of all men; We acknowledge and deeply mourn over our manifold sins and wickedness, which we, from time to time, most grievously have committed, by thought, word, and deed, Against your Divine Majesty. These provoke most justly your wrath and indignation against us. We earnestly repent and are greatly sorry for our wrongdoings. The remembrance of them is grievous unto us. The burden of them is intolerable. Have mercy upon us, have mercy upon us, most merciful Father. For the sake of your Son our Lord Jesus Christ, forgive us all that is past. Grant that from now on we may serve and please you in newness of life to the honour and glory of your Name; Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Then the Priest (or the Bishop if he is present) shall stand and turn to the People and say:

Priest: 

ALMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, who of his great mercy has promised forgiveness of sins to all those who with genuine repentance and true faith turn to him: Have mercy upon you; ✠ pardon and deliver you from all your sins; establish and strengthen you in all goodness; and bring you to everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Then the Priest shall say:

HEAR what comfortable words our Saviour Christ says to all who truly turn to Him.

Come to Me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. St Matthew 11:28 

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. St John 3:16 

Hear also what Saint Paul says. 

This is a true saying, and worthy of all men to be received, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. 1 Timothy 1:15 

Hear also what Saint John says. 

If any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and He is the propitiation for our sins. 1 St John 2:1, 2 

Then shall the Priest, kneeling down at the Lord’s Table, together with all those who shall receive the Communion, pray the following prayer: 

O MERCIFUL Lord, we do not presume to come to this Table of yours trusting in our own righteousness. Rather, we trust in your manifold and great mercies. We are not worthy so much as to gather up the crumbs under your Table. However, you are the same Lord whose attribute is to always have mercy. Gracious Lord, grant us therefore, so to eat the flesh of your dear Son Jesus Christ, and to drink his blood, that our sinful bodies may be made clean by his Body, and our souls washed through his most precious Blood. By this, grant that we may evermore dwell in him, and he in us. Amen.

Here, making the sign of the Cross, he places a portion of the Host in the Sacrament of the Blood, saying, 

MAY this holy admixture of the ✠ Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ be to me and to all partakers thereof health of mind and body, and a salutary preparation to the obtaining of eternal life, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Then shall the Celebrant receive the Communion in both kinds, first himself, and then proceed to deliver Communion in both kinds to the Bishops, Presbyters, and Deacons, in like manner, (if any be present,) and after that to the people also in order, into their hands, all devoutly kneeling. And sufficient opportunity shall be given to those present to take Communion. And when he delivers the Bread, he shall say, 

THE Body of our Lord Jesus Christ, which was given for you, preserve your body and soul unto everlasting life. 

And the Minister who delivers the Cup shall say, 

THE Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, which was shed for you, preserve your body and soul unto everlasting life. 

During the time of Holy Communion shall be sung, 

O LAMB of God, Who takes away the sin of the world; have mercy upon us.

O LAMB of God, Who takes away the sin of the world; have mercy upon us.

O LAMB of God, Who takes away the sin of the world; grant us Your peace.

Beginning as soon as the Priest receives the holy Communion, and until the Communion is ended, then shall the choir/people sing the post Communion HYMN.

¶ These Sentences of holy Scripture, are to be sung or said, one every day, after the holy Communion, called the post Communion.

If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. Matthew 16.24

He who endures to the end shall be saved. Mark 13.13

Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, to grant us that we might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life. Luke 1.68, 74, 75

Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Luke 12.37

Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. Luke 12.40

But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. John 4.23

See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you. John 5.14

If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.  And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. John 8.31-32

While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light. John 12.36

He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. John 14.21

If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him. John 14.23

If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. John 15.7

By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. John 15.8

If God is for us, who can be against us; He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all? Romans 8.31, 32

Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Romans 8.33, 34

The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Romans 13.12

But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption— that, as it is written, “He who glories, let him glory in the Lord. 1 Corinthians 1.30, 31

Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are. 1 Corinthians 3.16, 17

You were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. 1 Corinthians 6.20

Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.  And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. Ephesians 5. 1, 2

Then the Priest shall give thanks to God, in the name of all those that have partaken of Holy Communion, turning towards the people, and saying, 

Priest:  The Lord be with you.

People: And with your spirit.

Priest:  Let us pray.

Turning back to the Altar he shall pray, 

ALMIGHTY and everliving God, we heartily thank you, because you condescend to feed us who have properly received these holy mysteries of the spiritual food of the most precious Body and Blood of your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ. We thank you that you assure us thereby of your favour and goodness towards us and that we are actual members incorporate in the mystical body of your Son. This Body is the blessed company of all faithful people and we are also heirs through hope of your everlasting kingdom by the merits of his most precious death and passion. And we most humbly implore you, O heavenly Father, so to assist us with your grace, that we may continue in that holy fellowship and do all such good works as you have prepared for us to walk in. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be all honour and glory, world without end. Amen.

Turning back to face the people, the priest shall give this blessing,  

Priest: THE peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord: And the blessing of God Almighty, ✠ the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always. Amen.