oath. we knew instinctively that we must rise to the occasion and act because of our common humanity. that is what makes us americans. one nation, under god, and now a prayer. dear god, oh, compassionate one, oh, merciful one. welcome in heaven those innocent souls who were taken from us and grant their surviving family members the strength to face their loss. heal the wounds of those hurt last monday, and heal the wounds of all bostonians who are hurting. united by faith and something greater than ourselves. we people of boston with your blessing dedicate ourselves to the great task before us, to heal, to rebuild and to serve once again as a shining city on the hill. amen.