Almighty God, you rescued your people from slavery in Egypt, and throughout the ages you have never failed to hear the cries of the captives. We remember before you our siblings in Galveston, Texas who on June 19, 1865 received the glad tidings of their emancipation. Forgive us for the many grave sins that delayed that liberating word and have quieted it in the many years since. Anoint us with your Spirit to bring good news to the poor, to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim the year of your favor; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
— Prayer by the Rev. Joshua P. Steele, slightly edited