Tag Archives: Maryland

A prayer about steps

We rejoice with all your beloved children

who took their first steps today;

may their families and friends

love, nurture, and protect them;

may we create a society

in which they are cared for well.

We remember all your beloved children

who took their final steps today;

may they already be received into your nearer presence

where pain is no more and all tears are wiped away;

may those who mourn receive comfort and support

as they walk this shadowed valley.

We pray in the name of your Beloved Child Jesus,

the itinerant preacher who proclaimed and lived your love.

Amen.

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Filed under Current Events, Family, Friends, Prayer

Maryland poised to end the death penalty

The General Assembly of Maryland voted to repeal the state’s death penalty Friday. This would end a 375-year history of capital punishment. Maryland would become the sixth state in as many years, and the 18th state overall, to abolish capital punishment.

The state Senate vote last week in favor of repeal.  Gov. Martin O’Malley supported the repeal effort.

Reports are that Governor O’Malley will likely will sign the bill next month after the General Assembly session ends. It would take effect October 1.

At the same time, supporters of the death penalty could petition the matter to the 2014 ballot, leaving the question to Maryland voters to decide. In that event, the law would be put on hold until after the election.

For today, however, a step to celebrate!

See you along the Trail.

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Filed under Capital Punishment, Current Events, Death Penalty