USS William H. Standley (DLG/CG-32)
COMMISSIONING PRAYER

O Eternal God, creator of the Universe and Governor of Nations: Most Heartily we beseech Thee with Thy favor to behold and bless Thy servant, the President of the United States, and all the officers of our Government, and so replenish them with the grace of Thy Holy Spirit that they may always incline to Thy will and walk in Thy ways. Bless the Governors of the several states, and all who are in authority over us; give them grace to execute justice and maintain truth that peace and happiness, religion and piety, may be established among us for all generations.

May the vessels of our navy be guarded by Thy gracious Providence and care. May they not bear the sword in vain, but as the minister of God, be a terror to those who do evil and a defense to those who do well.

Graciously bless the officers and men of our navy. May love of country be engraven on their hearts and may their adventurous spirits and severe toils be duly appreciated by a grateful nation; may their lives be precious in Thy sight, and if ever our ships of war should be engaged in battle, grant that their struggles may be only an enforced necessity for the defense of what is right. Bless all nations and kindreds on the face of the earth and hasten the time when the principles of holy religion shall so prevail that none shall wage war any more for the purpose of aggression, and none shall need it as a means of defense.

All of which blessings we ask through the merits of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

From the “Naval Customs, Traditions, and Usage”, United States Naval Institute (1959), pp. 327