Holy One, here in the middle of August we give thanks for the gift of tomatoes that have grown sweeter by gathering all the light they needed. Sweet August tomatoes ask us will you choose this and every day to be a person who gathers light.
Holy One, we know that choosing to be a gatherer of light does not mean everything will be resolved, cruelty will end, or that greed does not eat first at many tables. Help us choose to join those who daily make choices that set the oppressed free and proclaim release to the captives.
Holy One, you remind us that it is easier to preach fear, vengeance and despair than Resurrection. It is easier to destroy than to create. It is easier to curse than to honor and build up.
Empower us all of us, including the members of this House to choose the harder way. Choose the way of creation rather than destruction. Choose the way of healing what is broken.
Holy One, may we keep choosing to be gatherers of light who practice Resurrection. Amen.
Observe good faith and justice towards all Nations. Cultivate peace and harmony with all. Religion and morality enjoin this conduct; and can it be that good policy does not equally enjoin it? It will be worthy of a free, enlightened, and, at no distant period, a great Nation, to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of a people always guided by an exalted justice and benevolence. Who can doubt that in the course of time and things the fruits of such a plan would richly repay any temporary advantages which might be lost by a steady adherence to it? Can it be, that Providence has not connected the permanent felicity of a Nation with its virtue? The experiment, at least, is recommended by every sentiment which ennobles human nature.
—George Washington
Join us to pray the Rosary for Congress and the nation – each Friday at 11:30 am in the Interfaith Staff Prayer Room – 467 Cannon – and via Zoom. All are welcome. Rosaries and prayer sheets are provided. For zoom link or more information, contact Karen.Bronson@mail.house.gov Hosted by the Office of the Chaplain
The Interfaith Staff Prayer Room is open for congressional staff to use for personal prayer and meditation. For questions – email StaffPrayerRoom@mail.house.gov