Pastor’s Corner “An Anglican Way of Praying for Our Nation”

Among the great gifts of Anglicanism is our Book of Common Prayer. For centuries it has united Christians in worship through a wonderful interweaving of Scripture and ancient prayers. Thomas Cranmer, Reformer and Archbishop of the Church of England, was the architect of the first Book of Common Prayer given to the people in 1552. No longer were God’s Holy Word and the Church’s ancient liturgies locked behind Latin and reserved only for ordained lips. Now all Christians throughout England could fully participate in worshiping God.

Before the Book of Common Prayer, however, there was The Great Litany. This was the first piece of ancient liturgy translated into English, prepared by Archbishop Cranmer in 1544 to be prayed throughout the country at a time when England was at war with France and Scotland. This litany was prayed both in the churches and in the streets, interceding on behalf of the nation. Eight years later it was included in the Book of Common Prayer 1552, and has been used ever since as an extended prayer for a nation in times of both thanksgiving and need.

Since this Friday, July 4^th, the United States celebrates 249 years of independence, on Sunday, July 6^th we will set aside time to pray for our nation. In place of the Prayers of the People and the Confession, we will pray through The Great Litany on behalf of our country (pages 91-98 of our BCP 2019). This liturgy touches on government, education, agriculture, families, church, and more. Bring your thanksgivings and concerns for our nation, holding them in your heart before the Lord throughout the service.

On Independence Day itself, I encourage you to use one more gift found in our Book of Common Prayer 2019. Turn to page 636 and join with others across our nation who will be praying the following collect (a structured prayer “collecting” the intentions of the people into a concise petition):

Lord God, by your providence our founders won their liberties of old: Grant that we and all the people of this land may have grace to exercise these liberties in righteousness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.  Amen.

Your Pastor in Christ,