The inauguration benediction offered later today has received considerable attention. More specifically, the spotlight has been on the one who will voice those words – including why Louie Giglio stepped aside and Luis Leon was chosen as a replacement.
Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, senior religion editor for the Huffington Post, recently shifted the focus to what words could be spoken with a blog post featuring his own proposed benediction alongside two dozen additional submissions by religious leaders. The text of two of these brief (all submissions were to be 100 words or less) benedictions I found especially insightful follow:
- “May God bless this country, in all of its beauty and ugliness, in its pluriformity, with its valorous and ambivalent history. May God bless this President, as he endeavors to lead us all — every American — those who trust him, and those who suspect him. And may God bless each one of us, as we join together to create a more peaceful, just, and equitable society.” –Tony Jones, Emergent Leader
- “God of love: watch over our country at this time of change and transition for our whole world. Make us a country full of compassion to the needs of all our citizens. Continue to make us leaders in the ways of justice and generosity towards all. Make us evermore aware that our differences are our strengths and that our great diversity should never be confused with weakness. May we all be committed to keep making America great and never stop looking to the future with a well-founded hope. Amen.” –Fr. Albert Cutie, Priest and Author (my review of his book: Dilemma: A Priest’s Struggle with Faith and Love)
So What?
Regardless of your perspective on how Luis Leon was ultimately chosen to give today’s benediction, he will offer the benediction. I encourage you not only to listen to what he prays, but also to write out the benediction you would offer if given the same opportunity.