Virginia General Assembly opens 2013 session in prayer

The Virginia General Assembly opened Wednesday in prayer for the commonwealth’s men and women in uniform, its citizens and elected officials as lawmakers prepared to tackle a full agenda over the next six weeks.

Clergy, lobbyists and state and local leaders attended the 47th annual Commonwealth Prayer Breakfast held at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Among the speakers offering prayers were Gov. Robert F. McDonnell (R), Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli (R), House Speaker William J. Howell (R) and newly-elected Democratic Party of Virginia Chairwoman Del. Charniele L. Herring (D-Alexandria).

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All speakers focused on the power of faith to help lawmakers make tough decisions and remain civil.

In praying for President Obama, McDonnell told the audience the president has a difficult job, and asked for wisdom and leadership for Obama to heal the partisan divides in Washington. He also reminded the Virginia General Assembly that they are “not political enemies,” McDonnell said. “We all love our country.”