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Declaration of War – 18 June 1812

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Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That war be and is hereby declared to exist between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and the dependencies thereof, and the United States of America and their territories; and that the President of the United States is hereby authorized to use the whole land and naval force of the United States to carry the same into effect, and to issue to private armed vessels of the United States commissions or letters of marque and general reprisal, in such form as he shall think proper, and under the seal of the United States, against the vessels, goods, and effects of the government of the said United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, and the subjects thereof.

Heavenly Father,

We are now at war with the most powerful nation in history. I humbly ask Thee to continue shielding this nation from harm so that the light of Thy liberty might continue to shine across this world. Please bring this war to a swift conclusion so our two nations might again be at peace.

Grant our Congressmen wisdom, patience, temperance in speech, and humility. Motivate them to make decisions based on our Constitution and the good of the nation as a whole.

Bless the family of dearly departed George Clinton, and send us a man of stature and wisdom to take his place as Jemmy’s Vice-President.

Bestow Thy wisdom upon Secretary of War William Eustis, and continue to bless and keep the other members of Jemmy’s cabinet.

Heal Harry Lee from the injuries he received in the Baltimore riots so that he might command our Army. Provide Anne and the children the strength to minister to Harry’s needs.

Guide Jemmy in his selection of a replacement for Harry. Grant him the ability to read the hearts of men, or at least the patience to listen to those who can.

Bless and protect our Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines. Train their hands for war and their fingers for battle, and help them remember this training in combat.

Provide General Hull with courage and wisdom as he marches into Canada. Shield and protect the regiments and soldiers under his command, especially our many friends in Colonel Scott’s Regiment. Especially Rangers Killian and Smith. And Sergeant Major Mosey.  And Colonel Scott, and the Chaplain, and all the others.

Protect the ladies at Fort Lafayette in their absence.

Grant us victory!

I ask all this with humility and confidence, in the name of Jesus Christ, the Lord of Armies.

Amen.