“More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of....”

This famous line from English poet Alfred Tennyson was banked on by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) as it turned into prayer for a “peaceful and meaningful” 2022 elections despite the coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19) and the "traditional election malpractices."

In its social media post, the CHR said “the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that, as we persevere in prayer, God answers them.”

In "PasaLord Prayer for the 2022 Election," the CHR begged for forgiveness.

"Please forgive us for indifference to the plight of our fellow Filipinos and the future of our country which caused hopelessness," it said.

Also in its prayer:

"In the upcoming elections, please open our hearts and minds to the sanctity of the ballot and the duties we must perform, and such as registrations, voting and electing leaders according to Your will."

"Please open our eyes so that we may discern the candidates who are worthy of serving the nation and who have qualities such as: reverential fear of God, competence for the post they want to serve in integrity, firm principles, no greed for money or power, and courage to fight for the good of all.”

The CHR said that because of poverty and lack of education, the election process in the country “is not a clean one as many government officials, even aspiring ones, use money and influence to get votes.”

Anticipating that such practice will still prevail next year, the CHR expressed hopes that Filipino voters will have the sense to reject temptation and look at the bigger picture -- a brighter tomorrow for the country.

The CHR prays:

"Give us the strength, Lord, to reject vote-buying and the money stapled with sample ballots. Save us from all lies, false promises, character assassination and destructive campaigns, as well as intimidation, electoral violence, and violation of human rights.

"Bless and guide the COMELEC's resolve to have clean, honest, peaceful and orderly elections. Give them the courage to curb all forms of election fraud, especially ballot-swapping and cyber scams. Protect and guide the voters and the election officials -- particularly the teachers, the police, the military, and the poll watchers.”