Reverend Lawson Anderson
Episcopal Diocese of Arkansas
Little Rock, AR
Sponsor: Rep. Rep. Asa Hutchinson, (R-AR)
Date of Prayer: 06/26/2001
One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:
Mr. HUTCHINSON. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I welcome Reverend Lawson Anderson to the House floor and thank him for such an encouraging opening prayer .
Reverend Anderson is a lifelong resident of Arkansas and thousands have been blessed with his compassion and support in times of crisis. He is well–known for his wisdom, his wonderful wit, and his easy manner in any situation. After successful careers in forestry and banking, Lawson was called to the ministry and has served Episcopal congregations in Springdale, Newport, and North Little Rock.
In his life, Lawson reflects a true commitment to helping and encouraging others; from prison ministries to respite care for the elderly; from youth services to mental health; from crisis to crime prevention.
After 25 years of ministry, he continues his work. He has provided support and counseling to law enforcement officials, educators, and health professionals following the tragic school shootings in Jonesboro and the tornadoes in Central Arkansas.
He has served his community, his State, and his Nation with honor and compassion. While he reminds me that he is here today not to be praised but to pray, I am honored to have him pray with us today and to recognize the work he has done for the people of Arkansas.
Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:
Let us pray. Gracious God, as we prepare in the week ahead to celebrate the anniversary of the founding of this Republic, we commend this Nation to Your merciful care. We pray that being guided by Your providence we may live securely in Your peace.
Grant to the President of the United States, to the Members of this Congress, and to all in authority wisdom and strength to know and to do Your will. Fill them with the love of truth and righteousness and make them ever mindful of their calling to serve this country in Your fear. Guide them as they shape the laws for maintaining a just and effective plan for our government.
Give to all of us open minds and caring hearts and a firm commitment to the principles of freedom and tolerance established by our Nation's founders and defended by countless patriots throughout our history.
Help us to stamp out hatred and bigotry, to embrace the love and concern for others that You have clearly shown to be Your will for all mankind. Bring peace in our time, O Lord, and give us the courage to help You do it.
For we ask this in Your name. Amen.
To learn more about Members who have sponsored a Guest Chaplain, please visit the Congressional Biographical Directory