Sittings in both Houses begin with Christian prayers. The practice of prayers is believed to have started in about 1558
Common practice by 1567, the present form of prayers probably dates from the reign of Charles II.
"Lord, the God of righteousness and truth, grant to our Queen and her government, to Members of Parliament and all in positions of responsibility, the guidance of your Spirit. May they never lead the nation wrongly through love of power, desire to please, or unworthy ideals but laying aside all private interests and prejudices keep in mind their responsibility to seek to improve the condition of all mankind; so may your kingdom come and your name be hallowed. Amen."
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