The Senate's daily prayer Wednesday turned into a different kind of plea.
"Lord, when our federal shutdown delays payments of death benefits to the families of children dying on far-away battlefields, it's time for our lawmakers to say enough is enough," said Rev. Barry Black, the Senate chaplain, as he opened Wednesday's session.
"Cover our shame with the robe of your righteousness. Forgive us, reform us and make us whole."
He then led the Pledge of Allegiance.
McClatchy's James Rosen reported Wednesday that "Lawmakers, veterans and others expressed outrage Tuesday over the Pentagon’s view that the partial government shutdown is preventing it from making quick $100,000 payments to the relatives of slain troops intended to help cover funeral costs and expenses for bereaved survivors."