Last week, I mentioned the rich resources of Scripture for dealing with suffering, particularly in helping us pray when we don’t know how to pray. This is also one reason why I have come to appreciate prayer books in my spiritual journey. When my wife and I lived in Canada, we attended an Anglican church. Eventually, I purchased Book of Common Prayer (Canada) for my own use. It comes in handy if you ever need to marry someone (just kidding), but I am also struck by the variety of occasions anticipated by the editors of the prayers.

Three seemed especially appropriate this week. (Canadian spellings retained.)

For Universities, Colleges, and Schools

Almighty God, of whose only gift cometh wisdom and understanding: We beseech thee with thy gracious favour to behold our universities, colleges, and schools, that knowledge may be increased among us, and all good learning flourish and abound. Bless all who teach and all who learn; and grant that in humility of heart they may ever look unto thee, who art the fountain of all wisdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For those in Anxiety

Almighty God, who art afflicted in the afflictions of thy people: Regard with thy tender compassion those in anxiety and distress; bear their sorrows and their cares; supply all their manifold needs; and help both them and us to put our whole trust and confidence in thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Before an Election

Almighty God, the fountain of all wisdom: Guide and direct, we humbly beseech thee, the minds of all those who are called at this time to elect fit persons to serve in the offices of the United States. Grant that in the exercise of their choice they may promote thy glory, and the welfare of this Country. And this we beg for the sake of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.

In the spirit of Christian unity, I hope you’ll appreciate this Canadian prayer reworded slightly for US elections.