Prayer on the Occasion of the Inauguration of a Public Official

This prayer, from the U.S. edition of the Book of Blessings (no. 1965), is an adaptation of the prayer for the Church and for civil authorities that was composed by Archbishop John Carroll for use on the occasion of the inauguration of George Washington in 1789.

Prayer on the Occasion of the Inauguration of a Public Official
Almighty and eternal God,
you have revealed your glory to all nations.
God of power and might, wisdom and justice,
through you authority is rightly administered,
laws are enacted, and judgment is decreed.

For the President:
Assist with your spirit of counsel and fortitude
the President of these United States, that his administration may be conducted in righteousness, and be eminently useful to your people over whom he presides.
May he encourage due respect for virtue and religion.
May he execute the laws with justice and mercy.
May he seek to restrain crime, vice, and immorality. Amen.