Prayer for Civil Authorities

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Updated on Wednesday, October 31, 2018

Composed in 1791 by John Carroll, First Bishop of Baltimore. * Click to Download

We pray Thee, O Almighty and Eternal God, through Jesus Christ our King! Through whom authority is rightly administered, laws are enacted, and judgement decreed, assist with Thy gifts of counsel and fortitude the President of these United States, that his administration may be conducted in righteousness, and be eminently useful to Thy people; by encouraging due respect for virtue and religion; by a faithful execution of the laws in justice and mercy; and by restraining vice and immorality.

Let the light of Thy divine wisdom direct the deliberations of Congress, so that all their proceedings and laws may be in harmony with the natural law, and may tend to the preservation of peace and the promotion of national happiness. We pray also for the governor of Virginia, and other officials who are appointed to guard our political welfare, that they may be enabled by Thy powerful protection to discharge their duties with ability and honesty.

We pray to Thee, O Lord, through the infinite merits of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Amen.

* Adapted by St. Joseph Parish 828 Buford Rd., N. Chesterfield, VA 23235