Rabbi Mendy Deitsch, shliach to Chandler, Arizona, was invited by his senator Kyrsten Sinema to open a session of the U.S. Senate on Thursday as a guest chaplain. He mentioned the Rebbe and the Sheva Mitzvos in his prayer.
By Anash.org reporter
Rabbi Mendy Deitsch, shliach to Chandler, Arizona, opened the session of the U.S. Senate on Thursday as a guest chaplain.
The daily session of the U.S. Senate in Washington D.C. traditionally opens with a prayer, led by the Chaplain of the Senate. At times, it is led by a guest chaplain, recommended by a Senator. According to current regulations, a guest chaplain can only deliver a prayer twice a month, and as such, it is seen as noteworthy to be given that honor.
Rabbi Deitsch was invited by his Senator Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, and was greeted in the Senate by Chaplain of the US Senate Barry Black. He was accompanied by his brother Rabbi Yechezkiel Deitsch, shliach to Vienna, Virginia, and local shluchim to Washington D.C.
During his prayer, Rabbi Deitsch mentioned a teaching of the Rebbe, and noted that enacting just laws – the purpose of the Senate – is one of the Sheva Mitzvos B’nei Noach.
After concluding the prayer and on his way out of the Senate building, Rabbi Deitsch met Howard, a Jewish man who was working for the C-SPAN network, and offered him a chance to put on tefillin. Howard gladly agreed, and donned tefillin right there in the Senate building.
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The following is a transcript of his prayer:
God in heaven, Master of the world, graciously exalt the United States Senate.
Bless these distinguished individuals, chosen by many, who have entrusted them, with the responsibility of legislating, for the well-being of their constituents and families.
While each of us come from a different background we stand here united with a shared vision and purpose, with conviction and determination, with love and strength to ensure that each day is better than the day before.
As my revered teacher the Lubavitcher Rebbe said, that though humanity’s origin began in a perfect world, human shortcomings led to its failings.
Yet, it is through human goodness and kindness, that we can reveal G-d in this beautiful world, his dwelling place on earth with the coming of Moshiach.
Almighty God, may those gathered here be mindful of your presence, as they work to enact just laws, which is one of the seven Noahide laws given to all mankind–, aligned with your will, to foster a peaceful and harmonious world.
Please let us see more peaceful days soon with the safe return of those being held hostage as well as the dedicated men and women of our armed forces battling evil at this time.
Bestow upon them wisdom, justice, grace, and empathy, Bless our leaders with good health, compassion, and joy, enabling them to bring honor to Your name and blessings to humankind. As they fulfill your divine will.
Amen.
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