[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 18]
[Senate]
[Page 24905]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

                                 prayer

  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Today's opening prayer will be offered by Rev. 
Dr. James L. Merrell, retired Disciples of Christ journalist, serving 
as pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ, St. Louis, MO.
  The guest Chaplain offered the following prayer:
  Creator God, source of all things in heaven and on Earth, give wisdom 
and strength to those who seek. We come today with fresh anticipation. 
We assemble in this place where history is made, knowing that Your 
presence has guided those serving here so faithfully in challenging 
decades past. We give thanks that Your sure and merciful hand continues 
to uphold the life of our blessed Nation. We are grateful for the light 
and love You never fail to show to those who accept their calling as 
Senators. Now we would ask You to continue empowering this body to make 
decisions in keeping with Your purpose. Amen.

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