How to Pray for the President of the United States
The Book of Common Prayer is the Best Book of Prayers for Most Any Occasion
Further Thoughts on the Prayer Service
The Service of Prayer for the Nation at the National Cathedral was, regrettably, overshadowed by the concluding remarks of Bishop Budde. It’s unfortunate that an Episcopal bishop (from my former denomination) chose to add her personal commentary to an already jam-packed program. It was not a Christian service by the way, at least not completely. There were many, many religions represented1
As I reflect on her remarks with some distance from the immediate reaction, I find myself disappointed for another reason. This was a missed opportunity. Bishop Budde could have used that moment to teach the nation how to pray for our leaders and country, drawing from a resource that is both deeply Anglican and universally Christian: The Book of Common Prayer.
The Book of Common Prayer
The prayer book tradition in the Anglican Church is a steady and trustworthy framework for living the Christian life. Its carefully structured rhythm of worship shapes both private devotion and corporate prayer, providing a timeless foundation for faith.
Rooted in Scripture and centuries of theological reflection, the Book of Common Prayer offers prayers for nearly every occasion, from the sacred milestones of life to the ordinary concerns of daily living.
Among these prayers are profound petitions for those in authority, including the President of the United States. These prayers are thoughtfully crafted, blending biblical principles with the rich language of faith, ensuring they remain both timeless and adaptable to contemporary challenges.
It’s worth noting that the printed edition of the Book of Common Prayer stands apart from the progressive leanings of modern interpretations. It is not a “woke” book, but rather a resource steeped in theological depth and a focus on God’s unchanging truth.
By turning to the prayer book, Anglicans—and all Christians—can lift up the concerns of their hearts and the needs of the world, trusting in God’s providence and mercy. Its prayers remind us that true change comes not from human effort alone, but from seeking the wisdom and intervention of Almighty God.
How to Pray for the President
For those who wish to pray for the President of the United States, I have included several prayers from the Book of Common Prayer for private or corporate use.
O Lord our Governor, whose glory fills all the world: We commend this Nation to your merciful care, that we may be guided by your providence, and dwell secure in your peace. Grant to the President of this Nation, the Governor of this State [or Commonwealth], and to all in authority, wisdom and strength to know and to do your will. Fill them with the love of truth and righteousness, and make them continually mindful of their calling to serve this people in reverent obedience to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen. (BCP, 2019)
A General Collect for the President of the United States
O Lord our Governor, whose glory is in all the world: We commend this nation to thy merciful care, that, being guided by thy Providence, we may dwell secure in thy peace. Grant to the President of the United States, and to all in authority, wisdom and strength to know and to do thy will. Fill them with the love of truth and righteousness, and make them ever mindful of their calling to serve this people in thy fear; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen. (BCP, 1979)
A Collect for the President, Vice-President and Families
Almighty God, whose tender care extends to all Your children, pour forth Your blessing upon our President and Vice President, together with their families; shield them from harm, guide their paths with wisdom, and grant them strength for their demanding duties; that through their faithful service this nation may prosper in righteousness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen. 2
Consider using these and other faithful prayers as a means to seek God’s guidance for our leaders, our nation, and ourselves.
David Roseberry
The Anglican
The transcript includes representatives from the following denominations or religions: The Episcopal Church, Piscataway Conoy Tribe, Judaism, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Presbyterian Church USA, African Methodist Episcopal Church, Mennonite Church, United Methodist Church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Vedanta (Hinduism), Islam, Sikhism, and Buddhism. I doesn’t appear that the Roman Catholics were represented.
I wrote this prayer.
The Rev. David Roseberry, an ordained Anglican priest with over 40 years of pastoral experience, offers leadership services to pastors, churches, and Christian writers. He is an accomplished author whose books are available on Amazon. Rev. Roseberry is the Executive Director of LeaderWorks, where his work and resources can be found.
I disagree with you . The bishop is a brave woman.May we follow her example and call out hate filled, racist rhetoric,even when it is expressed by the president of the United States. Christian nationalism is a heresy, I believe. I am a Bible reading, praying, church going Christian.