[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 6]
[House]
[Page 7813]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

                                 PRAYER

  The Chaplain, the Reverend Daniel P. Coughlin, offered the following 
prayer:
  Ancient Scriptures tell us: ``Beloved, do not be surprised that a 
trial of fire occurs or when something strange happens to you.''
  You, O Lord, are the God of all consolation. We pray to You for all 
those who are startled by sudden events and are shaken by what happens 
to those they hold dear.
  How fragile and how unpredictable is life here on earth. How violent 
the times. Strengthen us in steadfast faith. Renew us in foundational 
relationships. For even in the most surprising moments, You call us, 
``Your Beloved.''
  Freed of fear and confusion, create in us a new spirit which will 
unify Your people in hope. May the brokenhearted hold fast to the 
constancy of Your love.
  For You live now and forever. Amen.

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