Commontide

For Guidance

O God, by whom the meek are guided in judgment, and light rises up in darkness for the godly: Grant us, in all our doubts and uncertainties, the grace to ask what you would have us do, that the Spirit of wisdom may save us from all false choices; that in your light we may see light, and in your straight path we may not stumble; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Commontide
Collect
Death & the Departed

The Burial of the Dead — Opening Collect

Most merciful God, whose wisdom is beyond our understanding: deal graciously with those who mourn [especially _________]. Surround them with your love, that they may not be overwhelmed by their loss, but have confidence in your goodness, and strength to meet the days to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Found in the Prayer Book

This prayer appears in more than one place in the 2019 Book of Common Prayer.

  • Prayers For A VigilMinistry to the Sick & Dying
  • Burial Of The DeadThe Burial of the Dead

Provenance

ECUSA 1979

Draft — AI-assisted research under editorial review.

A modern prayer for the bereaved, composed for the Episcopal Church's 1979 prayer book to comfort those who mourn, especially at the burial of a child. It asks God to surround the grieving with love and give them strength for the days ahead.