we pray that Thou wouldst mercifully guide, and bless, and preserve us through the same; or if during the course of it we are called hence, to be no more seen in this world, grant that we may be prepared by thy grace for thy presence in glory, and have an abundant entrance ministered unto us into thy heavenly kingdom.

And grant, O Lord, that this season may not be spent by us in thoughtlessness and levity, but may it be to all of us an occasion of more serious reflection on the shortness, uncertainty, and value of time, that we may apply ourselves with more earnestness than ever to our preparation for that solemn change which awaits us. May we seek to grow in grace as we advance in years; and as the last year and day of life approach, may we become more "meet for the inheritance of the saints in light."

We know not, O our God, what is in reserve for us in the course of the year on which we now enter; but our hope is in Thee. Into thy hands we commit our spirits; for Thou hast redeemed us, O Lord

God of truth. Fit and prepare us, we beseech Thee, for the duties and trials, which may be before us; and under all the varying circumstances of life, may we be found "stedfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord."

Be very gracious to our friends. Enrich them abundantly with the bounties of thy providence and the gifts of thy grace. Prosper the work of thy servants, who are engaged in spreading thy Gospel in the world. May their zeal be increased, and a larger blessing than ever attend their labours this year.

All that we ask, O God, is in the name, and for the sake, of Jesus Christ. And to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be glory for ever. Amen.

Additional Petitions,

WHICH MAY BE INTRODUCED INTO THE FORMER PRAYERS.

ON BEHALF OF CHILDREN.

I.

WE entreat thy favour, O Lord, towards the dear children of this family. They have been dedicated to Thee by baptism, and we earnestly pray that all their future tempers and conduct may prove that they are indeed " regenerated by thy Holy Spirit, and thy children by adoption and grace." Incline them to seek Thee early. Open their hearts to receive the truth as it is in Jesus; and may "the word of Christ dwell richly in them in all wisdom." Let

thy fatherly hand ever be over them; let thy Holy Spirit ever be with them; and so lead them in the knowledge and obedience of thy word, that in the end they may obtain everlasting salvation, through our Lord Jesus Christ.

II.

Remember with thy favour, O Lord, the children of this family. Make them thine own children in spirit and in truth. Early teach them to see the fault and corruption of their nature. Renew in them a penitent and pure heart. a lively faith in thy Son, Jesus Christ. May thy Holy Spirit cause them to delight in thy ways, and to hate and renounce all sin, and ever to follow that which is good. Make them to be obedient to their parents, attentive to their various duties, and diligent in their learning. Take possession of their hearts and rule their lives; so may they continue thine for ever, and daily increase in thy Holy Spirit more and more, until they come unto thine everlasting kingdom.

Enable them to exercise

III.

We pray, especially, that the children of this family may be brought up in thy fear. Create in them clean hearts, and renew a right spirit within them. Keep them, O Lord, from the evil that is in the world. And after they have done thy will on earth, grant them an abundant entrance into thy heavenly kingdom.

IV.

Have compassion on the children of this family. Save them from the follies and dangers of youth. Incline them to seek Thee with their whole hearts. Make them to be obedient in all things. Prepare them for thy future service on earth, and grant that hereafter they may all be members of thy blessed family above.

V.

We implore thy especial protection on behalf of the youthful members of this family. Save them from the temptations of this vain and evil world. Strengthen