[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 39 (Thursday, March 5, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S2779]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

                                 prayer

  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Today's opening prayer will be offered by 
guest Chaplain Rev. Father John McCormick, St. James Cathedral, 
Orlando, FL.
  The guest Chaplain offered the following prayer:
  Almighty God, our Father, as men and women called to honor the Nation 
that You have called us to live in by our generous and public life of 
service, strengthen our sense of gratitude for the many blessings with 
which we have been endowed. We stand in this Chamber, surrounded by the 
many monuments and burial sites that honor all the men and women who, 
throughout the passing of time, have made the ultimate sacrifice that 
has enabled our country to be a beacon of light and goodness for all 
peoples.
  As we begin this day of work in Your kingdom, extend Your hand of 
blessing and protection over the Members of this body. Hold close those 
who serve with honor and sacrifice in the military services and their 
family members whose sacrifice mirrors that of their loved ones. Bless 
and protect us all. Make us ever grateful for what You have done in and 
through each one of us. Amen.

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