Inauguration: Utah Gov. Huntsman takes oath; President Monson offers benediction
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President Thomas S. Monson offered the benediction at the ceremony Jan. 5 to inaugurate Jon M. Huntsman Jr. to this second term as governor of Utah.
The ceremony was held on the steps of the state Capitol. Several hundred people gathered for the noontime event in what was called the coldest day of this winter's season as temperatures dipped to well below freezing.
In his prayer, President Monson expressed gratitude for "the lovely spirit that has prevailed" at the ceremony. He acknowledged, "We live in a time when challenges are many. We are in need of Thy guidance and Thy sustaining influence, and pray sincerely for such blessings."
Further, he invoked blessings upon the governor and "those other distinguished citizens who have now been sworn in for their respective offices. Wilt thou bless them with wisdom, with foresight and with understanding as they begin a new term of office. Please also bless those who will assist them in their many duties as well as the members of their respective families. We thank Thee for the great privilege we have of living in a land free from tyranny and oppression. Wilt thou ever bless and guide our country and its leaders."
Rabbi Benny Zippel of the Chabad Lubavitch of Utah, a Jewish center in Salt Lake City, offered the invocation. In his prayer, Rabbi Zippel said, "In electing Mr. Huntsman to a second term as governor, the citizens of Utah have made the strongest statement possible that Gov. Huntsman is worthy of their trust.
"Oh, Father in Heaven, the citizens of Utah are a God-fearing people. They recognize You as the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe. . . ."
In addition to Gov. Huntsman, Utah Supreme Court Justice Matthew Durrant also administered the oaths of office to Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert, Attorney General Mark Shurtleff, Auditor Auston Johnson and Treasurer Richard Ellis. David Archuleta sang the national anthem at the start of the ceremony.
