Page:Book of common prayer (TEC, 1979).pdf/443

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or this

Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; *   
I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures *   
and leads me beside still waters.
He revives my soul *   
and guides me along right pathways for his Name’s sake.
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I shall fear no evil; *   
for you are with me;   
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You spread a table before me in the presence of those who trouble me; *   
you have anointed my head with oil,   
and my cup is running over.
Surely your goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, *   
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *   
as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.

The Celebrant then says this prayer

Let us pray.

O God, you have taught us through your blessed Son that whoever receives a little child in the name of Christ receives Christ himself: We give you thanks for the blessing you have bestowed upon this family in giving them a child. Confirm their joy by a lively sense of your presence with them, and give them calm strength and patient wisdom as they seek to bring this child to love all that is true and noble, just and pure, lovable and gracious, excellent and admirable, following the example of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Thanksgiving for a Child443