The Office of the Chaplain United States House of Representatives

Opening Prayer

04/21/2026
Chaplain Margaret Grun Kibben

Sovereign God, as if on our behalf, the psalmist asks, “What is humanity, that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” 

Fallen though we are, you have given us life and breath, responsibility and opportunity, the company of friends and the testing of our adversaries – all from the depths of your immense love for us.

Everything we have comes from you. Everything we encounter happens through you. And all things we endure find their resolution in you.

Lord of all creation, we cannot possibly imagine the “why” of your generosity to us, nor the “how” that would reveal your unfathomable wisdom. For we cannot know your mind, nor dare we offer you counsel. And most certainly we cannot persuade you or win your favor.

Receive, then, our humble spirits and inspire in us this day the desire to bring glory to you, as we respond to your unmerited grace and mercy, through our words and deeds, as we seek to serve you in this place.

In your mighty name, we pray. Amen.

Psalm 8:4
Romans 11:33–36

Thought of the Week

Though with our limited understandings we may not be able to comprehend it, yet we cannot but believe, that he who made the world still governs it.

—Abraham Lincoln

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