Good morning, Mayor Nirenberg, City Councilmembers, City officials, and all gathered here today. Thank you for the privilege of offering this invocation.
Pope Francis has reminded city officials that “we need to invest in beauty where there is most degradation, in education where social unease reigns, in places of social aggregation where there are violent reactions, in training for legality where corruption prevails. Knowing how to dream of a better city and sharing the dream… with those elected to the city council and with all citizens of good will is a marker of social care.”
With that in mind, let us pray:
God of all wisdom and compassion, we gather here today with hearts full of gratitude for the opportunity to serve this community. We ask for your guidance upon our leaders, that they may govern with wisdom, justice, and humility. Help them to balance competing interests with temperance, ensuring that the dignity of every individual is upheld, especially the most vulnerable. May their decisions promote the common good, and foster solidarity among all people in San Antonio. May their actions encourage greater engagement on the part of all citizens, through their irreplaceable individual contribution to the common good, beginning with the duty to cast an informed and responsible vote in every election.
Heavenly Father, in moments of challenge and division, grant elected officials the strength to unite this city, to work collaboratively, and to lead with compassion. Remind us all that leadership is a sacred trust – one that demands a spirit of service, integrity, and generosity. Bless the families of these public servants, and may their work be a blessing to future generations, ensuring a more just and prosperous city for all.
We offer this prayer in a spirit of hope, trusting in your divine guidance, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
