Homily on Praying for Government

Two-hundred and thirty six years ago, the first Bishop of these United States decreed that a prayer be prayed in every parish in response to Saint Paul’s admonition to the young Bishop Timothy that ‘prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for all in authority.’

Bishop James Carrol thus provides an example for me which don’t imitate nearly enough. Oh I watch the news and read the Washington post religiously (a habit born of all those years living inside the beltway). But when is the last time I knelt down and prayed for President Trump rather than second-guessing him? When is the last time I begged God to be good to Governor Baker or Secretary Galvin? When did I offer a rosary for Senators Markey or Warren? To be honest, I never have.

But I will today. At least for today. At least for today I will seek to bless more than bluster, commend more than I criticize. And beg God to guide these public servants in obedience to the Apostle’s command.

We pray to you O God of might, wisdom, and justice! Through whom authority is

rightly administered, laws are enacted, and judgment decreed, assist with your Holy Spirit of counsel and fortitude President Donald Trump, that his administration may be conducted in righteousness, and be eminently useful to your people over whom he presides; 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 your divine wisdom direct the deliberations of Congress, so that they may tend to the preservation of peace, the promotion of national happiness, the increase of industry, sobriety, and useful knowledge; and may perpetuate to us the blessing of equal liberty.

We pray for Governor Baker, and for the

members of the Great and General Court…that they may be enabled, by your powerful protection, to discharge the duties of their respective stations with honesty and ability.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.  Amen.