The Office of the Chaplain United States House of Representatives

Opening Prayer

04/21/2025
Dr. Edrees Bridges

O merciful benefactor, merciful redeemer, ground us in this solemn moment.

Bestow clarity upon our congressional leaders. May their voices and votes strengthen the pillars of democracy.

Remain present in their hearts and minds, even when the path diverges, and allow their presence to reflect the strength of principled conviction. Grant them ears for active listening to the calls for collaboration and the voices of the people whom they serve.

Let them carry their responsibilities with humility, for within these walls resides the weight of a nation's will.

May they be a symbol of hope through triumph and trial.

Grant them strength amid uncertainty and creativity to shape a more perfect union.

O merciful, You fashioned us differently to inspire a shared purpose, so let unity be our highest pursuit.

Unite us as we humbly submit to Your eternal guidance for the good of our country and good for humanity.

We ask this with Your name. Amen.

Thought of the Week

All those who put their hope in God place their feeble hands in his strong and mighty hand; they let themselves be raised up and set out on a journey. Together they become pilgrims of hope, witnesses of the victory of love...

—Pope Francis
April 20, 2025

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