Page:Tracts for the Times Vol 1.djvu/445

 No. 46.]

Question from the Office of Ordination.—?—Ans.

Blessed be the good providence of, who, in great compassion for this Church and Nation, has hitherto preserved us from heresies and schisms.

O, continue to us this great mercy, and grant that we, who are appointed to watch over Thy flock, may employ our learning and our time in promoting of true piety; that we may never grow secure and careless, but that we may endeavour to secure the power, as well as the form of godliness. Have pity upon all Christian Churches, that are distracted by contending parties, and reduce all that wander out of the way. Enable us to preserve this Church in peace and unity, by all means becoming the spirit of the Gospel. Keep us stedfast in the faith, that we may never be tossed about with any wind of doctrine, or the craft of men. Let the zeal and industry of those that are in error provoke us to be zealously affected in a righteous cause; in labouring to make men good, and in converting sinners from the error of their ways; which grant for  sake.—Amen.

"But," the Bishop, "himself also, as his important affairs will permit him, shall use his best endeavour by instruction,