Invocation – VA Senate January 14, 2010

Delivered by Rabbi Gilah Dror

Creator of the universe, source of all inspiration and hope, we are mindful of our many blessings, and of our responsibility to help others, as we hear of the tremendous suffering, and of the rescue efforts, taking place in Haiti.

We ask Your blessings for our country, for the Commonwealth of Virginia, for our leaders and advisors, and for all who exercise just and rightful authority.

Teach us Your insights, that we may administer all affairs of state fairly, that peace and security, happiness and prosperity, justice and freedom may forever abide in our midst.

Grant us health of body and serenity of spirit.
Bless us with wisdom, vigor, and understanding.

As a song may lift us up from the place we are, to the place we want to be, let Your song lift us up and remind us of the sacred nature of the calling to lead a people in the ways of justice.

Open our hearts to recognize the gift of diversity within our communities.

Let our words, and deeds, reverberate with power and with promise, as we strive to attain, that which ought to be.

May citizens of all races and creeds forge a common bond in true harmony to banish all hatred and bigotry and to safeguard the ideals and free institutions, which are the pride and glory of our country.

May our labors be infused with Your Spirit, and may this land, and this Commonwealth, under Your providence, be an influence for good throughout the world, uniting all people in peace and freedom.

And let us say: Amen.