The Office of the Chaplain United States House of Representatives

Reverend Norman Steen

Christian Reformed Church
Washington, DC

Sponsor: Rep. Rep. Pete Hoekstra, (R-MI)
Date of Prayer: 10/05/2000

One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:

Mr. HOEKSTRA. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to welcome the Reverend Norman Steen , pastor of the Christian Reformed Church of Washington, D.C. as a guest chaplain for the House of Representatives.

The Washington, D.C. Christian Reformed Church has a proud history of more than 50 years in the District of Columbia. The church was founded during World War II by members of the Christian Reformed Church who came to Washington from Michigan, Iowa, New Jersey, Washington, and California and from throughout the United States in order to serve our Nation.

Since that time, the church has rooted itself in Northeast Washington and has seen many changes in this city, all the while serving its members and the community around it.

Reverend Steen has been the pastor of the church since April of 1999. Prior to moving with his wife, Barb, he was a minister at a church in my hometown, the 14th Street Christian Reformed Church of Holland, Michigan. During his distinguished 25–year career as a minister, Norm has also served churches in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and Parkersburg, Iowa.

I hope the entire House will join me in welcoming Reverend Norm Steen as our guest chaplain today.

Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:

Almighty God, Maker of heaven and earth,
Lord of the Nations,
You’ve got the whole world in Your strong and loving hands, our beloved nation and all people everywhere.

I ask you, Lord, for the blessing of Your wisdom
to fall on these congressmen and women,
as they deliberate this day to seek the common good.

Give understanding, patience, and goodwill
as they struggle to accomplish their legislative goals.

Bless these our leaders with the health, strength and endurance they need to do their work well.

Above all, Lord, may Your love of justice and mercy be reflected in the work of these dedicated public servants.

Yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory forever. Amen.

To learn more about Members who have sponsored a Guest Chaplain, please visit the Congressional Biographical Directory