‘SEE BEYOND DIVISION’ and ‘BUILD BRIDGES’

Bishop Mark delivers opening prayer on first day of the New York State legislative session

Bishop Mark O’Connell offers the opening prayer for the first session of the New York State Senate at the New York State Capitol Building in Albany on Jan. 7. (Photo provided).

Bishop Mark O’Connell was invited to the first day of the 2026 New York State legislative session on Wednesday, Jan. 7, where he offered the opening prayer for the first session of the New York State Senate at the New York State Capitol Building in Albany. 

“All Mighty God, source of all wisdom and compassion, we gather here in the halls of the New York State Senate at the threshold of a new dawn, a fresh beginning filled within promise amid these uncertain and critical times for our world. Its conflicts rage in places like Ukraine, Israel, Gaza and Venezuela and unrest echoes across the nations. We pause to seek your guidance, trusting that our actions here in New York can contribute to the greater good, fostering peace and justice both near and far.

“We invoke your presence upon this assembly granting wisdom to the members of the Senate, the Assembly and to our governor. Illuminate their minds and hearts as they deliberate and legislate that they may enact policies which uplift and protect the poor, the vulnerable and the marginalized among us. Help them to see beyond division, to build bridges of understanding and to prioritize the common welfare in all their endeavors. In the face of global turmoil, wars that displace families, crises that deepen inequality, may our leaders draw strength from your eternal light, working tirelessly to promote healing, equity and hope.

“Let their decisions reflect their commitment to human dignity, assuring that no one is left behind in our shared pursuit of a just society. Gracious God, as this new dawn breaks, unite us in purpose, inspire us with courage and bless the work of this session. May it bear fruit that honors your creation and serves all people with integrity and mercy. Amen.”

Bishop O’Connell also met with Carl Heastie, speaker of the New York State Assembly, state senators, including Senator Pat Fahy,  and assembly members.