For Religious and Charitable Societies

O Lord Almighty, faithful and true, who, by thy Holy Prophet hast told us, that from the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same, thy name shall be great among the Gentiles ; and in every place incense shall be offered unto thy name, and a pure offering ; for thy name shall be great among the heathen ; bless and prosper, we beseech Thee, the endeavours of the societies established among us for the propagation of the gospel among the heathen and others ; take Thou from them to whom the glad tidings of salvation shall be preached, all ignorance, hardness of heart, and contempt of thy word ; so that thy word being sown in good and honest hearts, it may bring forth fruit abundantly to thy honour, and the salvation of their souls : grant that all who have heard and received it may live according to its doctrine and precepts, and by holiness of life, and zeal for thy glory, may become eminent examples to all about them. Bless all religious and other societies among us, for Christian conference, and works of charity ; for the promoting of Christian knowledge and practice among the poor and ignorant. O Lord increase the number of these societies, and enable them all to choose the best and most inoffensive means for accomplishing their several ends, and to prosecute them diligently, with a zeal directed by wisdom and prudence ; so that being free from all worldly interests, they may steadfastly pursue the advancement of thy glory and the good of mankind. And grant, O God, that no good Thou shalt vouchsafe to bring about by their poor endeavours may tempt them to think highly of themselves, but modestly and humbly. Remove all unreasonable prejudices against their designs ; shed forth thy love abroad in their hearts, that they may cheerfully embrace all opportunities of doing good to the souls and bodies of men, and not to be discouraged at any difficulties or oppositions they may meet with. O God, hear their prayers for themselves and others ; defend them from the rage of Satan, and from the malice of evil men ; perfect holiness more and more in their hearts ; unite them finally to one another in thy truth, and in the bond of love, and make them zealous in all good works, according to the command and example of Jesus Christ who went about doing good ; for whose sake we beseech Thee to hear us. Amen.