Reverend Dr. John Cross, Jr.
South Biscayne Church
North Port, FL
Sponsor: Rep. Vern Buchanan, (R-FL)
Date of Prayer: 07/15/2010
One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:
Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, it is my privilege today to introduce and thank Dr. John Cross, who gave the opening prayer. The Senior Pastor at South Biscayne Church in Florida, he represents a county that I'm in, my largest county, Sarasota County, in North Port, our largest city. He is joined by his lovely wife, Dawn, and their five children. As a matter of fact, they are celebrating their anniversary.
Dr. Cross is a very innovative, spiritual leader. I've seen him many times on Friday nights in his jeans and T–shirt working with the youth in our community. He's taken a church from 150 people to over 2,000. He has one of the largest churches in our community. He is serving his second term as president of the Southern Baptist Convention.
I commend Dr. Cross for his longstanding service, and it is a pleasure to have him and his family today. God bless.
Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being so kind, gracious, holy, and just. Thank You for demonstrating Your endless love through Jesus.
Thank You for giving us the honor of living in our great country. Thank You for those who've gone before us.
We pray for those who are serving now to protect our freedom. Please give them safety. We pray for peace.
We pray for our President, Congress, and all who lead our country. Please give them wisdom and direction as they make decisions.
May we look to You as our Source, not our economy.
In these days of global terror, may we remember You as our Security.
Use us to be instruments who bring hope to the underserved and safety for the unprotected.
May we be a nation who humbles ourselves before You. We bless You and please bless America.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.
To learn more about Members who have sponsored a Guest Chaplain, please visit the Congressional Biographical Directory