Reverend George G. McDearmon
Ballston Lake Baptist Church
Ballston Lake, NY
Sponsor: Rep. Rep. John Sweeney, (R-NY)
Date of Prayer: 08/02/2001
One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:
Mr. SWEENEY. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure and honor to welcome Pastor George McDearmon from the Ballston Lake Baptist Church in Ballston Lake, New York in my 22nd Congressional District.
He and his wife, Deborah, are the proud parents of two children. Their daughter, Hanna, is a senior at Liberty University; and their son, Gregory, is the navigator of the USS Ross.
Pastor McDearmon and I grew close during the events that unfolded on October 12, 2000. It was on this day the Navy family suffered a tremendous loss when the USS Cole fell victim to terrorism while attempting to refuel at the Port of Aden in Yemen.
Fortunately, I was able to deliver good news to Pastor McDearmon . His son, LTJG Gregory McDearmon , was safe. I commend their service to their communities and our country.
I note that today is a milestone day for both the Pastor and his son, Gregory, since Gregory is navigating the ship, the USS Ross, into port in Puerto Rico for the first time today.
Pastor McDearmon was first assigned to the Ballston Lake Baptist Church almost 25 years ago, and his dedication to his congregation, local community and family has kept him there ever since. I would also like to note, he is a member of the board of directors for the Southern Military Institute.
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have him here and welcome his participation today.
Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:
O Lord God, the solitary, living God of creation, providence and redemption, Thou art great in wisdom, power and grace. Who would not fear Thee, O King of the nations? Indeed it is Thy due, our Judge, Lawgiver and King.
We thank You for making and preserving us a Nation and for our heritage of liberty in law. By the person and work of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, forgive us of our sins whereby we have failed our heritage, violated Your Law and forgotten You.
Knowing that You establish all authority, may we prove faithful stewards of our solemn trust. May we be God–fearing men and women of moral courage and integrity. May we serve with a selfless, principled commitment to our Constitution and to the public good. May we wisely govern ourselves and the Nation.
O triune God, we petition for Your guardian presence for all who serve in the Armed Forces of the United States. Crown their endeavors with success. God of all comfort, strengthen those grieving over the loss of loved ones who served aboard USS Cole. May the "Determined Warrior" again ply the oceans in their memory and our defense.
We pray in the meritorious name of Jesus Christ, the Captain of salvation. Amen.
To learn more about Members who have sponsored a Guest Chaplain, please visit the Congressional Biographical Directory