A Prayer

Almighty God,
you have given us this good land for our heritage.
We humbly ask you that we may always prove ourselves
a people mindful of your favor
and glad to do your will.

Bless our land with honorable endeavor,
sound learning and pure manners.
Save us from violence, discord and confusion,
from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way.
Defend our liberties and fashion into one united people
the multitude brought here out of many nations and tongues.

Endow with Spirit of wisdom
those to whom in your name
we entrust the authority of government,
that there may be justice and peace at home,
and that through obedience to your law
we may show forth your praise
among the nations on earth.
In time of prosperity
fill our hears with thankfulness,
and in the day of trouble
do not allow our trust in you to fail.

We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

- Thomas Jefferson
Third President of the United States of America
(1743-1826)