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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Commontide
Collect
Prayers

The Collect

Holy Matrimony

O gracious and everliving God, you have created us male and female in your image: Look mercifully upon this man and this woman who come to you seeking your blessing, and assist them with your grace, that with true fidelity and steadfast love they may honor and keep the promises and vows they make; through Jesus Christ our Savior, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Found in the Prayer Book

  • Holy Matrimony

Provenance

Episcopal 1979

Draft — AI-assisted research under editorial review.

A collect composed for the 1979 Episcopal prayer book, the first time an Anglican marriage rite opened with an explicit invocation of God's creation of humanity "male and female in your image."