Opening Prayer: U.S. House of Representatives 4 February 2003

The Chaplain, the Reverend Daniel P. Coughlin, offered the following prayer:

   Lord God, Creator of the Universe and redeemer of all in the human family, this strong and determined Nation stands before You today with heavy hearts and heads bowed in prayer.

   The break-up of the Space Shuttle Columbia brings all of us to the edge of life as we know it, feeling a common vulnerability. We commend to You the two women and five men who achieved their dream in becoming astronauts. Their heroic stories will continue to inspire the young, encourage scientists and those who serve their country.

   Engaged by the wonder of Your creation, they reached beyond human limitation to explore the secrets of the Universe. Now, drawn beyond space and time, they enter the silent mystery known to You alone.

   O Lord, console their families and friends of NASA with loving compassion and peace. As we scan the landscape of this disaster, help Your people to solve the riddle of human life, to heal the fractures of an international space program, and to piece together the fragments of world relationships on this blue planet, swirling through space, called Earth.

   For You are Lord of the heavens and of us now and forever. Amen.