The Most Rev. Jaime Soto, Roman Catholic Bishop of Sacramento, issued this statement today following the election yesterday of the Donald J. Trump as the 45th President of the United States:
This was a very contentious election, mired more in anxious frustration than hope.
Mr. Donald Trump has been chosen to govern as the 45th President of the United States. We owe President-elect Trump the assurance of our prayers as well as our commitment to be faithful citizens, binding the wounds of a divided nation and forging a society with life, liberty, and justice for all.
President-elect Trump has been honored with the highest public office of the most powerful nation in the world. It is a position that comes with a heavy burden for which much wisdom, fortitude, and charity will be required.
As we come to the end of the Jubilee Year of Mercy, we should remind ourselves that God chose to reveal His almighty power though the humble mercy of Jesus. President-elect Trump and all those who have been entrusted with the welfare of this Nation as well as the family of Nations would do well to renew themselves at the wellspring of this saving mercy. For this we pray as together we cross this threshold.
PRAYER AFTER AN ELECTION
God of all nations, Father of the human family,
we give you thanks for the freedom we exercise
and the many blessings of democracy we enjoy in these United States of America.
We ask for your protection and guidance
for all who devote themselves to the common good,
working for justice and peace at home and around the world.
We lift up all our duly elected leaders and public servants,
those who will serve us as president, as legislators and judges,
those in the military and law enforcement.
Heal us from our differences and unite us, O Lord,
with a common purpose, dedication, and commitment to achieve liberty and justice
in the years ahead for all people,
and especially those who are most vulnerable in our midst.
Amen.
Our Lady, the Immaculate Conception, Patroness of the United States of America, pray for us.