Video: Westport Rabbi Prays Nationally for Congress

Before a joint session of Congress convened to hear Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the U.S. House of Representatives heard a Westport rabbi say a prayer on Tuesday

Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn, of Westport's Conservative Synagogue on Hillspoint Road, kept his prayer apolitical as he spoke of politicians, soldiers and the need for open-mindedness. His transcribed speech is presented here.

Dear God, source of all strength, passion and peace. We know that our time on this earth is preciously short, so please open our eyes to the beauty of the world around us. Remind us that each person we encounter is created in your image. Provide us with the integrity, wisdom and patience to listen to those with whom we do not agree and learn from those who we might otherwise not hear.

Protect the courageous men and women who put their lives in danger each day so that our children can live safely and without fear. Comfort us today as we mourn with the people of Missouri following the tragic loss of life brought upon by the devastating forces of nature.

And finally bless our leaders and advisers, including the dedicated men and women of this United States Congress who assiduously seek to protect our sacred democratic values at home and abroad. And may you grant them the vision to look ahead to our future without forgetting the lessons of our past. Amen.

Weiderhorn, who has been with the synagogue since 2008, was the guest of Rep. Jim Himes, D-4. After the prayer, he spoke briefly about his friend.

“It is a real honor,” Himes said. “I know Rabbi Wiederhorn has served as an important leader in Westport and throughout Fairfield county. He has served as a friend to me.