done in the Kalendars and Rubrics: Or secondly, for the more
proper expressing of some words or phrases of ancient usage in
terms more suitable to the language of the present times, and
the clearer explanation of some other words and phrases, that
were either of doubtful signification, or otherwise liable to
misconstruction: Or thirdly, for a more perfect rendering of
such portions of holy Scripture, as are inserted into the Liturgy;
which, in the Epistles and Gospels especially, and in sundry other
places, are now ordered to be read according to the last
Translation: and that it was thought convenient, that some
Prayers and Thanksgivings, fitted to special occasions, should
be added in their due places; particularly for those at Sea,
together with an office for the Baptism of such as are of Riper
Years: which, although not so necessary when the former Book
was compiled, yet by the growth of Anabaptism, through the
licentiousness of the late times crept in amongst us, is now
become necessary, and may be always useful for the baptizing of
Natives in our Plantations, and others converted to the Faith.
If any man, who shall desire a more particular account of the
several alterations in any part of the Liturgy, shall take the
pains to compare the present Book with the former; we doubt not
but the reason of the change may easily appear.

And having thus endeavoured to discharge our duties in this
weighty affair, as in the sight of God, and to approve our
sincerity therein (so far as lay in us) to the consciences
of all men; although we know it impossible (in such variety
of apprehensions, humours and interests, as are in the world)
to please all; nor can expect that men of factious, peevish,
and perverse spirits should be satisfied with any thing that
can be done in this kind by any other than themselves: Yet we
have good hope, that what is here presented, and hath been by
the Convocations of both Provinces with great diligence examined
and approved, will be also well accepted and approved by all
sober, peaceable, and truly conscientious Sons of the Church of
England.

CONCERNING THE SERVICE OF

THE CHURCH

There was never any thing by the wit of man so well devised, or
so sure established, which in continuance of time hath not been
corrupted: As, among other things, it may plainly appear by the
Common Prayers in the Church, commonly called _Divine Service_.
The first original and ground whereof if a man woul