Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap.
Invocation Delivered for Mayor Nutter's Second Inauguration and
Swearing in of Philadelphia City Council
January 2, 2012
A friend of mine prays for three things every morning: humility, repentance and gratitude. I asked her once why she prayed for those three things – why not faith, hope and charity; or prudence, or courage, or understanding?
She said that humility lets her see herself and the world as they really are. So it’s the beginning of wisdom.
Repentance helps her to understand and forgive others as she wants to be forgiven herself. So it’s the beginning of mercy and justice.
And gratitude helps her to remember that she is loved – and Who it is that made her, and the God and the people who love her. So it’s the beginning of joy.
Here in Philadelphia we have a lot to be grateful for. It’s a great city with great traditions and an extraordinary history; but our greatest gift is our people, who come from so many different backgrounds to create the energy and generosity of our community. So let’s turn our hearts for a moment in thanksgiving to the Lord who makes all these good things possible.
Father in heaven,
Make us honest stewards of the world you place in our hands. Make us good guardians of the dignity that you give as a birthright to every human person. Help us to reach out to the suffering and the persecuted, and to protect the poor, the weak and the immigrant. Help us to reflect your light to others, and to show by our actions that truth, integrity and service still shape the purpose of the community life we share.In a special way, bless our leaders –especially Mayor Nutter for his dedication and service to our city, but also including all those who serve in public life. Guide them in building a civil order that honors your law and your love. Give us the eyes to see your holy face in each other, and to live and love accordingly. And pour down your grace on all of Philadelphia, so that those who come after us will see beyond the buildings and history and industry of our city to the greater beauty of the goodness and decency of her people. We ask this as your sons and daughters, confident in your love.
Amen.