The peaceful transfer of power is something many countries never manage. Whoever you voted for, Inauguration Day is a moment to pray, as Scripture tells us to, “for kings, and for all that are in authority.”
Historical Context
A Prayer for Inauguration Day
Lord God, today our nation inaugurates a new President.
Give the President wisdom beyond their own,
a love for justice, and care for the weakest among us.
Surround him with honest advisers.
Protect the President and their family.
Thank you for the peaceful transfer of power,
and help all of us work for the common good.
Amen.
For National Unity
Lord, heal our divisions.
Help us treat those we disagree with as neighbours, not enemies.
Amen.
For Those Who Are Disappointed
Lord, for everyone who wanted a different result today,
give peace, and remind us that our hope is in you, not in any leader.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On Inauguration Day, before or during the ceremony.
- At the first Sunday Mass or service after the inauguration.
- Throughout a new administration’s first hundred days.
Scripture Connection
“Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help.” — Psalm 146:3
We pray for leaders, but we don’t put our ultimate trust in them. That frees us to pray for any president sincerely, whatever our politics.
Related prayers
For national days, see the Prayer for Presidents’ Day, the Prayer for the 4th of July and the Integrity Prayer.