the speaker pro tempore: the prayer will be offered by the est chaplain, reverend david geleski, u.s. jesuit conference, washington, d.c. the chaplain: gracious and life-giving god, we come to you today in the midst of the holiday season, a time for joyful gatherings with friends, family members and other loved ones in a time for recalling the blessings we have had received. we are mindful and grateful for the many gives you have bestowed on us, both as individuals and as a nation, especially the gift of freedom, the gift of our abundant natural resources and the gift of opportunities to pursue our hopes and aspirations. we pray for your continued blessings on our country and on those in positions of leadership and governance, especially in this house of representatives. bless all its members with wisdom and understanding to discern how best to serve the people of these united states, to promote the common good, to provide for our nation's security and to work for justice and peace for all people. amen. the speaker pro tempore: pursuant to section 6-a of house resolution 438, the jour