[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 70 (Friday, May 17, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S5215]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

                                 prayer

  The Chaplain, Dr. Lloyd John Ogilvie, offered the following prayer:
  Gracious Father, our refuge and our strength, a very present help in 
trouble, we come to You just as we are, with the confidence that You 
will lift our hearts and prepare us for the day ahead. We can be honest 
with You about our real feelings, questions, and our deepest concerns.
  Here in the Capitol, a place of great human power and powerful 
people, often we assume that we must suffer, weep, and struggle alone. 
Beneath the highly polished surface of our images of power, often there 
is an aching heart. Loneliness is no stranger, and sometimes 
discouragement and even despair become unwelcome guests in our heart. 
Our culture does not honor the expression of need or vulnerability.
  Dear God, help us to be more sensitive with those who are hurting and 
those facing what seem to them to be insurmountable problems. Most of 
all, set us free to express our concerns and give reassurance in the 
midst of the battle with the forces of depression and despair.
  This morning, there is a family on our hearts, the family of a 
distinguished naval officer. With one voice, we pray for the family of 
Adm. Jeremy ``Mike'' Boorda. Oh, Holy Comforter, bless his wife, 
Bettie, his children and grandchildren, now in their monumental grief 
over the admiral's untimely and inexplicable death. Comfort and 
strengthen them in their time of immense loss, and encourage them with 
the lovely memories of his great life and leadership.
  Now, Lord, be with the men and women of the Navy, their officers, and 
especially those who worked closely with the admiral.
  We all press on with the challenges of this day and trust You more 
deeply, open ourselves to You more completely, and encourage and uplift 
one another more unreservedly. In Your holy name. Amen.

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