02/03/2026
On February 2, Bishop Cowden had the honor of offering the opening prayer at the West Virginia House of Delegates with these words:
"Let us pray.
Gracious and loving God, we come before you in the name of Jesus Christ, who taught us to love our neighbors and to seek the good of all.
We give you thanks for this day and for all who serve the people of this state in this place. Grant to those gathered here the wisdom that listens before it speaks, the courage that seeks the common good, and the humility that remembers that all authority is given in trust.
Guide our legislators, O Lord, in the work set before us. Shape their decisions with patience and care, that they may be marked by fairness, compassion, and a deep concern for the well-being of every neighbor.
We ask your blessing upon those who are most vulnerable: the poor, the sick, the young, and the old, and upon all whose lives are affected by the choices made here today.
When the way forward is uncertain, be our guide. When disagreement threatens to divide, draw us back to what unites us. And when fear tempts us toward hardness of heart, renew us in love.
Bless the work of this day, O God, that it may serve the cause of peace, the dignity of every person, and the good of this common life. Amen."
📸: Perry Bennett, West Virginia Legislature photographer
