Reverend Jonathan Slavinskas
St. Bernard's Church of Our Lady of Providence Parish
Worcester, MA
Sponsor: Rep. James McGovern, (D-MA)
Date of Prayer: 02/23/2026
One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:
Mr. Speaker, this morning I am honored to have my dear friend, Father Jonathan Slavinskas, pastor of St. Bernard's Church of Our Lady of Providence Parish in my hometown of Worcester, Massachusetts, give today's opening prayer.
Father Jonathan, as he is known by his parishioners, is a true force of good in the Lincoln Street area. He is always a welcoming and friendly face who is known for buying pizza for the neighborhood kids or opening up the gym for pickup basketball games.
He is also the chaplain for both the Worcester Police Department and the Worcester Fire Department. He cares deeply about our immigrant community.
Day in and day out, Father Jonathan lives out his Catholic faith in big and small ways. He shows up for his community and is always there for his people, especially when they are going through rough times.
Father Jonathan has long been a cherished friend of the entire McGovern family, especially of my daughter, Molly, who sadly passed away last April. Lisa and I will forever be grateful to him.
Mr. Speaker, with a friendly smile and a touch of humor, Father Jonathan goes out of his way to make those around him welcome both in the church and in the neighborhood. We should all be inspired by his remarkable example.
Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:
Almighty God, Lord of all nations, we ask Your blessing upon this assembly and upon the people they serve. In a time marked by division, anxiety, and uncertainty, grant these leaders wisdom to seek the common good, courage to choose what is right over what is easy, and the humility to listen with open hearts.
Where there is anger, sow patience. Where there is mistrust, build understanding. Where there is fear, awaken hope. Remind us that beyond every difference, we remain one people, entrusted with the care of this Nation and of one another.
Bless those who defend our freedoms, those who serve in our communities, and those who struggle quietly, wondering if their voices still matter. May this Chamber be guided not only by power, but by conscience, always mindful of the dignity of every human person.
May all who lead do so in a way that would make the people back home proud to say that they were heard here. Amen.
To learn more about Members who have sponsored a Guest Chaplain, please visit the Congressional Biographical Directory