Creator of the sun and stars, we call You by many names and come to You in humility and in excitement for the day ahead. We know that we live in a world of paralyzing polarization and disagreements that leave us confused, distracted, and disheartened.
Speak to us once again Your words of comfort and of challenge. Speak to this body so that it may be for the world a beacon of hope, justice, equality, and sound governance.
In this golden state may we seek the true north and central message of Your Being: that we are all in this together and bound together for the tasks that lie ahead. May we treat each other with intrinsic dignity, fairness, and respect.
Most of all, Holy One, may we seek a better tomorrow for our children and our children’s children. May we be so bold as to enact policy that engages the last and the least so that everyone may be brought to Your table of grace.
This we ask in the name of equity, light, and love.—AMEN.