USA. On September 20, Fr. Richard Estrada, CMF, led the traditional prayer, opening the session of the House of Representatives of the USA. He is the first Hispanic religious to do so. Estrada was invited by the Democratic congressional representative, Hilda Solís, in recognition of his work on behalf of social justice and in observance of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Estrada prayed: “Senor, inspire the leaders of our nation to seek justice, to defend freedom and to unite our various cultures and languages. Grant them your wisdom to make laws, which take care of all. You have made us in your wonderful likeness. Remove arrogance and hatred from our hearts. Tear down the walls separating us and unite us in bonds of love.”