Page:The pastor in his closet.djvu/66

 faith, my mother that has borne me all these years, and borne with me, that has fed me and nourished me, though a wayward and unworthy son, oftentimes dishonouring her with my misdeeds.

Continue forth Thy loving kindness, Lord, to this branch of the vine: “Behold and visit this vine, and the place of the vineyard that Thy right hand hath planted, and the branch that Thou madest so strong for Thyself;” this branch, abundantly watered, saved, and spared, amid many neglects and divisions; quickened, made fruitful in saints, rich in doctors and holy men, with creeds agreeable to Thy Word, and forms of sound words delivered from ancient times.

Give us the great grace of unity, which we now lack; help us towards it by Thy Spirit, that, if we attain it not in our time, we may approach towards it. Help us first towards inward unity, unity amongst ourselves, in our own house, between the members of our own Church; heal our inward divisions, that they may pass away. Knit us together; remove prejudices, discords, misunderstandings of one another, harshness, the spirit of controversy. Give us forbearance and charity.

I know, Lord, that we are much distracted separated from one another, vexed with debates. Cleanse us of these sins; restore true peace and