Commontide

For a Virtuous Heart

Give me, O Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy thought can drag down; an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out; an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose can tempt aside. Bestow upon me understanding to know you, diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you, and faithfulness that finally may embrace you. Amen.

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Prayer
Prayers

Defend, O Lord

Confirmation — said by the Bishop laying hands on each Confirmand

Defend, O Lord, this your servant N. with your heavenly grace, that he may continue yours for ever, and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more until he comes into the fullness of your everlasting kingdom. Amen.

Found in the Prayer Book

  • Confirmation

Provenance

Cranmer 1549

Draft — AI-assisted research under editorial review.

The oldest verbal formula in the Anglican confirmation rite, spoken by the bishop over each candidate since 1549. Thomas Cranmer composed it for the first Book of Common Prayer, and it has passed through every English-language prayer book since.