[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 131 (Monday, August 7, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Page S11715]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

                                 prayer

  The Chaplain, Dr. Lloyd John Ogilvie, offered the following prayer:
  Let us pray:
  Almighty God, You have blessed this Nation so bountifully. You have 
lavished Your love in natural resources and expressed Your providential 
care in the creation of a nation where we believe all are created equal 
and given the rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
  Today, we regretfully acknowledge that Your glorious intention for 
this Nation is debilitated for many who are caught in the syndrome of 
poverty, disadvantage, and disability. In Your Word You consistently 
call those who believe in You to reach out to the poor and those who 
suffer. But Lord, You know there is sharp division on how to implement 
Your admonition.
  As this Senate considers welfare reform measures, we ask for Your 
wisdom to discern how best to care for those in need. Help us to listen 
for the echo of Your truth as Senators speak from the several different 
approaches to the role of government in welfare programs. May what is 
done be more than a hand out, but a hand up to lift people from the 
vicious cycle of poverty or a life of habitual dependence on 
government. Show us the most creative balance of responsibility between 
the Federal Government and the States.
  Lord, we believe there is a workable solution for the future, and 
that during the hours of discussion and debate, You will guide the 
Senators to a way to unite in creative legislation. To this end we 
commit our work this week. Amen.

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