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Thanksgiving Service

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There are various modes under the Old Test. of offering thanksgiving. Sometimes it was public, sometimes in the family. It was frequently accompanied by sacrifices (2 Chronicles 29:31) and peace-offerings, or offerings of pure devotion, arising from the sentiments of gratitude in the offerer's own mind (Leviticus 7:12; Leviticus 7:15; Psalms 107:23; Psalms 116:7). It is usually connected with praise, joy, gladness, and the voice of melody (Isaiah 51:3), or (as Nehemiah 11:17) with singing and with honor (Revelation 7:12); but occasionally, if not generally, with supplication (Philippians 4:6) and prayer (1 Timothy 2:3; Nehemiah 11:17).

In the Book of Common Prayer there are various forms of thanksgiving, particular and general, as especially the "General Thanksgiving," which was added at the last revision, and appointed for daily use, and more particularly the "Office for the Holy Communion." But there are, besides, particular thanksgivings appointed for deliverance from drought, rain, famine, war, tumult, and pestilence; and there is an entire service of thanksgiving for women after childbirth; and certain days on which are commemorated great deliverances of the Church and nation are marked also with a solemn service of thanksgiving.