The Office of the Chaplain United States House of Representatives

Opening Prayer

09/02/2026
Chaplain Margaret Grun Kibben

Gather us together, O God, in the company of those whom you have called to serve in this time and in this place. Then may we, together, draw near to you with sincere hearts, to receive the law you would place within them and the truth you would write on our minds.

Cleanse us from our own guilty consciences and free us from our tendencies to seek our own wellbeing, to make our own rules, and to listen to our own voices.

Release us from all that keeps us from seeing you more clearly, loving you more dearly, and following you more nearly, this day and every day.*

Having placed our faith in you, may we hold on unswervingly to the hope we profess. Allow the fruit of our faith to be borne in our efforts. May we be more inclined to support one another with love and mutual encouragement and to live lives reflective of your grace and mercy.

These things we pray in the strength of your eternal love and the power of your holy name.

Hebrews 10:16–25
*Richard of Chichester (1197–1253)

Thought of the Week

God is never silent except when silence speaks more clearly than a voice. 

—Charles H. Brent

Featured Events