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+Most Rev. Martin D. Holley, Auxiliary Bishop of Washington

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Good and gracious God, we thank you for the gift of life and this beautiful day of May, the month of Our Lady, the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Jesus and our Mother too.

We ask for your great blessings upon our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI and for his intentions this month. For our Cardinal, Archbishop Theodore McCarrick in his apostolic ministry to the people of God in the Archdiocese of Washington.

In a very special way, we pray for our most honored guest, our President, George W. Bush, and for his many important works and great leadership that he provides for our country.

We ask you, Lord, to give him the Spirit of Wisdom, knowledge, courage, understanding, right judgment, reverence and wonder in awe in your presence, so that he might be strengthened to know your holy will and find a faithful friend in you, a sturdy shelter, a treasure beyond price.

Protect him from all evil and harm and give him your peace.

Bless all of us gathered here this morning and lead us to a deeper faith, hope and love for you and your commands.

Send your blessings upon the food, which we are about to receive, and those who have prepared it. And, never let us forget to provide for the poor.

We ask this through Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.