Page:Book of common prayer (TEC, 1979).pdf/839

 We thank you for the great resources of this nation. They make us rich, though we often exploit them. Forgive us.

We thank you for the men and women who have made this country strong. They are models for us, though we often fall short of them. Inspire us.

We thank you for the torch of liberty which has been lit in this land. It has drawn people from every nation, though we have often hidden from its light. Enlighten us.

We thank you for the faith we have inherited in all its rich variety. It sustains our life, though we have been faithless again and again. Renew us.

Help us, O Lord, to finish the good work here begun. Strengthen our efforts to blot out ignorance and prejudice, and to abolish poverty and crime. And hasten the day when all our people, with many voices in one united chorus, will  glorify your holy Name. Amen.

6.  For Heroic Service

O Judge of the nations, we remember before you with grateful hearts the men and women of our country who in the day of  decision ventured much for the liberties we now enjoy. Grant that we may not rest until all the people of this land share the  benefits of true freedom and gladly accept its disciplines. This we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.