[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 135 (Friday, August 11, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H4175]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                                 PRAYER

  The Chaplain, the Reverend Margaret Grun Kibben, offered the 
following prayer:
  Almighty God, how stunned we are to see an island paradise engulfed 
in flames, to watch hallmarks of Hawaii's rich history absorbed in a 
firestorm. More overwhelming are the loss of life and livelihoods, the 
destruction of homes and holy places.
  Hear our prayers for Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii. Provide 
comfort to the widespread grief for Lahaina and Kihei. We pray, O Lord, 
that You would grant safety to the first responders fighting the 
devastation, and shelter to the evacuees fleeing from its ruinous 
power.
  Remind us again, especially in times like these, to call upon You, O 
Holy One, our savior. Make evident Your presence among those who now 
walk through the fire's desolation. Let not the flames of loss and 
despair burn the soul of Hawaii. Let not the memory and tradition of 
``ohana'' ever be overcome by the fiery blaze.
  Lift from the ashes that special something which has also bound 
Hawaiians together in the face of both joy and adversity. Precious in 
Your sight, may they find the strength and hope You provide in the 
living of these days.
  In hope of Your redemption and in Your strong name, we offer our 
prayers to You.
  Amen.

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