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Almighty God stretch forth your right hand and give to the leaders of our nation, its president and congress, its governors and judges, its military commanders, all wisdom and guidance and direct them to discharge their duties in the manner commanded by thee. Grant them reason and understanding that they may judge justly and act rightly, preserving the commonwealth in harmony and peace. Kindle in their hearts the will to care for the needy, to show kindness to the poor, to aid the homeless, to help the helpless…Guide them in all things that they may govern our nation…putting aside all deceit and corruption, that they may maintain the confidence of the people of this land.

Grant also, O Lord, to the people of this nation, the will to do good, to flee from all evil and to practice righteousness. Drive from their hearts the lusts of the flesh and all covetous desire. Make them respectful of life and sharers of thy blessings, caring for one another in mercy and truth. Banish all evil from their hearts and all wickedness from their laws, that in every national action and individual deed, they may be servants of thy will and performers of thy love. Grant also, O Master, that the members of thy Church may be faithful witness of thy truth in unity and peace, fulfilling all thy commandments in true worship of thy glory. Bless the Orthodox Church in America with thy powerful blessings and deliver thy people from all falsehood and sin, through guidance of the bishops and priests filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. Our most merciful Lord, the God of all bounties and the Father of all consolations, turn not thy face from thy people and put us not to shame in our hope, for thou knowest our needs even before we ask, and dealest in all things according to thy goodness.

For every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from thee, the Father of Lights, and unto thee we ascribe all glory, thanksgiving and worship, together with thine Only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, and thy most holy good and life-creating Spirit, always now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Prayer adapted from the statement of the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America together with a service of Thanksgiving offered on the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America.