Reverend John J. Ryan
St. Brendan Roman Catholic Church
Ormond Beach, FL
Sponsor: Rep. Congressman John Mica, (R-FL)
Date of Prayer: 10/06/2004
One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:
Mr. MICA. Mr. Speaker, this morning, it is my distinct pleasure and really and truly an honor to welcome father John J. Ryan to the United States House of Representatives.
Father Ryan is the pastor of St. Brendan Roman Catholic Church in Ormond Beach, Florida, which is part of my district. He is a member of the presbyterate of the Diocese of Orlando and has served as a priest for 30 years.
Originally from New Jersey, Father Ryan has spent the majority of his priesthood ministering in the Orlando diocese.
Father Ryan has been a forerunner in the civic and ecumenical communities. In 2001, he gathered over 2,000 people of various faiths to mark the first anniversary of September 11.
In this service, he assembled Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, Catholic, and Orthodox religious leaders at his parish as well as representatives of every part of the civic community, from mayors, police chiefs, fire chiefs and every branch of the military service.
Father Ryan is no stranger to bringing together people of every race and every religion to share their common bond as members of the human society. He embodies the perfect blend of civic pride and religious faith.
Mr. Speaker, the Congress of the United States is privileged and honored today by the visit of a humble and great man, Father John J. Ryan of Ormond Beach, Florida.
Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:
Almighty and Eternal God, from all time and through Eternity You guide those You have created in every endeavor.
You place Your own hopes and dreams in the hearts of men and women, so that people of every race, language and way of life might advance in the ways of peace and justice.
As we navigate the seas of life, guard us, defend us, and be with us. Give us clear direction.
Grant that Your Spirit of Prudence and Wisdom fill our hearts and minds to accomplish Your works and lead us safely to the shores of goodness and justice.
Gracious God, we thank You for every blessing we enjoy; for every goodness we know.
As You have led us over the waters of the ages, lead us to that freedom which does not end and is perfected in You who are our Refuge, our Strength our help in ages past, and our hope for years to come.
Amen.
To learn more about Members who have sponsored a Guest Chaplain, please visit the Congressional Biographical Directory