New York State Gov. David A. Paterson

With a large smile on his face, looking very at ease and surrounded by family, David Paterson was sworn in as New York's 55th Governor at a time of immense discourse in New York Government. Gov. Paterson spoke at length with no teleprompter, evidencing a wonderful sense of humor and a remarkable ability to reach out to both sides of a severely disfunctional legislature.

The Rev. Msgr. Wallace A. Harris, pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Church, a Roman Catholic parish in Mr. Paterson’s home community of Harlem, led the gathering in prayer: “Rescue those unable to survive without him and bless his family, bless them in their gift of support to him and the strength they must give. Mighty God, your amazement never ceases.”

“Let us grab the unusual opportunities that circumstance has handed us today and put personal politics, party advantage and power struggles aside, in favor of service, in the interests of the people”

Godspeed, Governor Paterson.