The following prayer was given by the Rev. Jeffery Jordan, the pastor of the Metropolitan Community Church of Philadelphia. The prayer was given at the opening of the Philadelphia City Council meeting on February 14, 2008.

On yesterday evening, I was involved in a demonstration held at the Jamaican Embassy. This demonstration was an outcry to the government of Jamaica to protect it’s gay and lesbian citizen. A reporter asked me, why I was involved in the demonstration. I simply responded because it was the right thing to do.

Amos 5:24

But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!

Let us pray

God of power and might, wisdom and justice, through you authority is rightly administered, laws are enacted, and judgment is decreed.
Today we pray that you will assist with your spirit of counsel and fortitude the members of this council and other government leaders of this great city.

We pray that they may always seek the ways of righteousness, justice and mercy. Help them in every situation to know and to do the things that are right and just, with soundness of judgment in making vital decisions. Help them to think clearly and give them wisdom in every decision that they must make. Grant them discernment and common sense so they’ll be strong and effective leaders.

As they do the difficult job of leading this city, we pray that the barriers of fear, suspicion and hatred may fall. Help them to lead and govern with integrity, and that their integrity guides them and keeps them on track.

We pray that they may be strong and courageous. Encourage and strengthen them, giving them the wisdom they need. Be their defender and protector, and keep them always on guard. We pray that you not only defend and protect this council but that you will shield their families and love ones from all evil and violence.

And God, we pray that you may bless this great city. We pray that it may indeed be a city of brotherly love. We pray that you might bind up the spirits of violence, worthlessness and poverty and release spirits of hope, love, peace and determination.

And now, oh God, may your spirit rest rule and abide over this council and this council meeting. This we pray, in the name which is known by many names

Amen