[Page H3933]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                                 PRAYER

  Reverend Michael Wilker, Lutheran Church of the Reformation, 
Washington, D.C., offered the following prayer:
  Mothering God, You gave us birth in the bright morning of this world. 
Creator, source of every breath, You are our rain, our wind, our Sun.
  As we celebrate mothers this week, we thank You for all the people 
who have served as mothers. They have protected and nourished us, 
defended and loved us by giving us their very own lives.
  We repent of the times we have disrespected and abused, enslaved, and 
imprisoned people who have been mothers. Send Your fierce love to 
anyone who is suffering because they care for children.
  Help us heal from the times mothers have hurt children. Knit us all 
together with creative wisdom, feed us with bold compassion, and send 
us forth with wild courage.
  When mothers call us to do justice and work for peace, mercy, and 
health, help us listen intently. More than lending mothers a hand, let 
us follow their lead.
  Amen.

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