United States Capitol, Washington, D.C., Print by Currier and Ives, 1872-1874

Prayer for Society
By Pope John XXIII

O Jesus, come back into our society,
our family life, our souls
and reign there as our peaceful sovereign.
Enlighten with the splendor of faith
and the charity of your tender heart
the souls of those who work
for the good of the people, for your poor.
Impart in them your own spirit,
a spirit of discipline, order and gentleness,
preserving the flame of enthusiasm
ever alight in their hearts.
May that day come very soon,
when we shall see you
restored to the center of civic life,
borne on the shoulders of your joyful people.
Amen.