A Prayer for George Santos

Posted on December 1, 2023

I find myself wanting to pray for George Santos, and to pray for the nation. It would be dishonest for me to say that I’m unhappy with today’s vote in the House of Representatives that he be expelled. We’ve been missing these kinds of consequences in the face of a lot of egregious behavior.

George Santos is not the only politician under scrutiny right now for words and behaviors, and we have no lack of examples of how not to speak or conduct oneself in the public arena. But the story of George Santos has been captivating because his indiscretions have been so visible and easily seen, and any shred of personal responsibility so lacking.

I’m not happy with his expulsion because he’s a Republican. I’m not happy because he’s been publicly embarrassed or punished. I’m happy that our political representatives in the House, regardless of party affiliation, can still sometimes do a right thing.

So, I’m sincerely praying for George and for our nation. I’m offering a couple of prayers from our Book of Common Prayer, and one of my own…

For the Human Family, pg. 815
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us
through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole
human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which
infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us;
unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and
confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in
your good time, all nations and races may serve you in
harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ
our Lord. Amen.

For Those Who Influence Public Opinion, pg. 827
Almighty God, you proclaim your truth in every age by many
voices: Direct, in our time, we pray, those who speak where
many listen and write what many read; that they may do their
part in making the heart of this people wise, its mind sound, and
its will righteous; to the honor of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

And in my own words…

God of Grace and God of Glory,
I ask you to pour out your Spirit of Truth and presence on us all.
For every human person, so beloved by you, even those like me,
and like George, I ask for your healing presence and strength.
Help us every single one to be more completely tuned to all that
you have tried to teach us: that kindness matters, that honesty is
a strength, and that we are one another’s keepers. Help us all to
believe wholeheartedly in and to work for the common good, the
blessing and wholeness of all your people, all our neighbors upon
this island home you have given us among the stars.
I ask in faith, in anticipation and in the name of the Christ. Amen.

AMDG, Todd+