The Church of England has published a prayer for people wanting to pray for the upcoming marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

The couple will be married on 29 April in Westminster Abbey by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

The prayer from the Church of England asks that God would deepen the royal couple’s love and “strengthen their wills to keep the promises they will make”.

Favour

While the prayer specifically mentions William and Kate, who will be known as Catherine when she is Queen, the Church said its prayer was also for all couples preparing for marriage.

It asks God to “look in favour on William and Catherine and all who are made one in marriage”.

The new prayer goes alongside one already provided for children who want to pray for the royal couple.

Grace

In full the new prayer reads: “God of all grace, friend and companion, look in favour on William and Catherine and all who are made one in marriage.

“In your love deepen their love and strengthen their wills to keep the promises they will make, that they may continue in life-long faithfulness to each other; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”

And the prayer designed for schools and young people reads: “Dear Jesus, we pray for Prince William and Catherine Middleton as they get ready for their wedding day.

“Keep them safe, make them happy and help them to look after each other always. Amen”.