[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 4]
[Senate]
[Page 4919]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

                                 PRAYER

  The PRESIDENT pro tempore. Today's opening prayer will be offered by 
the Most Reverend Paul J. Swain, bishop of the Sioux Falls Catholic 
Diocese, Sioux Falls, SD.
  The guest Chaplain offered the following prayer:
  Let us pray.
  Almighty God, we thank You for the many blessings You have bestowed 
upon us and our country, especially those of personal freedom and self-
government. Continue to watch over and guide Members of this Senate and 
all who serve in public office, a high calling with grave 
responsibilities that affect the lives of so many. May they seek the 
common good with civility and charity, assuring that these blessings 
are secured for future generations.
  Protect those who defend these blessings around the world and 
reassure their families who worry about them. Be with those who are 
suffering this day in any way, especially from forces imposed upon 
them, including persecution and violence. As each of us seeks to do 
what is right and just, may we do so by looking out for those around us 
and looking up for inspiration and guidance.
  May You continue to bless this land of the free and home of the brave 
which, thanks to those who have gone before, is also a magnificent 
beacon of hope.
  Amen.

                          ____________________