[Page H9187]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                                 PRAYER

  The Chaplain, the Reverend Patrick J. Conroy, offered the following 
prayer:
  God of light, we give You thanks for giving us another day.
  Send Your spirit of peace and calm, that all might have confidence in 
Your faithfulness to us, and that no matter what lies ahead, Your grace 
is abundantly available.
  For millions of Americans, it is a season of anticipation of the 
coming of God's blessing. It is also a season of difficult memories for 
many because of addiction, divorce, or the first Christmastime without 
a loved one. Bless all who are in need of Your healing presence.
  These same realities are shared by many in the people's House, even 
while they engage in ongoing tense and difficult negotiations and 
address contentious issues. Lord, have mercy on Your people, and 
provide the grace that is needed for the work of the House to be 
fruitful and beneficial for all Americans.
  May all that is done in the days to come be for Your greater honor 
and glory.
  Amen.

                          ____________________