Occasional Prayers

Almighty God, who hast ordained that a man and a woman should leave their parents, cleave to one another and become one flesh; and hast taught us that what God has joined together no man should put asunder: Deliver our nation at this time from all corrupting influences. May marriage be held in honour among us all, and the gift of sex be acknowledged as a sacred trust from thee. Grant to both young and old the grace of self-control. Beautify our homes with thy presence, that husband and wife, parents and children, may love one another as thou hast loved us; through Jesus Christ our Lord.