Demopolis pastor John David Barnes, rector at Trinity Episcopal Church, opened this year’s session of the Alabama Senate with a prayer Thursday morning.

Barnes was invited to open the session by Senate Majority Leader Jabo Waggoner (R-Vestavia Hills).

“I was very honored to open the session with prayer,” said Barnes. “It should always be an important duty for the church to pray for all governmental leaders — whether we agree with them or not — as their decisions do indeed affect us.”

Barnes was accompanied by his wife, Amanda, and their sons, Joseph and Samuel. Afterward, the family was given a tour of the Capitol.

“It was reassuring to know that in an age where many areas of society seek to completely divest themselves of religion and faith, our state government has not completely forsaken a higher power,” Barnes said.

The text of Barnes’ prayer is below.

Almighty God:

We pray for the men and women of the Alabama Senate – for Gov. (Robert) Bentley, Lt. Gov. (Kay) Ivey and for all those who govern and hold authority in this state. May you shield and protect their families from all matters which may distract them from making sound decisions for the people and living their lives in peace.

Send your Spirit to dwell among us and bestow upon our government abundant gifts of wisdom, integrity and a strong sense of public service. May those in positions of leadership be always ready to put aside their own personal interests and inclinations, and instead embrace the path you would have your people take.

We ask that you open our eyes, ears and hearts, so that we may see, hear and consider the needs of all the people – both the privileged and influential and also the forgotten and the weak. May we never hesitate to do what is right, merely because it is difficult.

Finally, we ask you to send your blessing on all the people of the state of Alabama. May we never forget that if we are to be great, it is only because you have made us so.

All these things we ask in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.