Reverend Steven M. Torrence
Chaplain, Key West Police Department,
Key West, FL
Sponsor: Rep. Hon. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, (R-FL)
Date of Prayer: 05/01/2003
One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:
Ms. ROS–LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker,
today we welcome a distinguished
member of the clergy, Reverend Stephen
M. Torrence, from my district of
Key West, Florida.
Reverend Torrence was ordained in
the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan
Community Churches, and in 1985
was called to pastor the Metropolitan
Community Church in Key West.
Among his many community accomplishments,
he was instrumental in organizing
a nonprofit community–based
AIDS organization, AIDS HELP, that
serves Monroe County.
For over 12 years, Reverend Torrence
has also served as a fully sworn officer,
and is the Department Chaplain in the
Key West Police Force.
Reverend Torrence has witnessed
many tragedies as well as victories and
always offered comforting spiritual
guidance and gladsome praise. Monroe
County, and especially Key West citizens,
are grateful and blessed to have
him help us through difficult times and
join us in joyful celebrations.
We welcome Reverend Torrence to
the people’s House.
Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:
Almighty God, I thank You for the privilege and the honor to be here this morning in these hallowed halls on this, our Nation's National Day of Prayer . We as a people of many faiths and religions and backgrounds come together in a sign of unity to ask for Your guidance and blessings on this very important day.
We not only remember those who have given their lives to protect our great country in military service, but we also remember the men and women in law enforcement who risk daily and give their lives to protect each and every one of us.
As a Nation, let us remember that all people have one common origin. Fill our hearts with compassion for our neighbors and the desire to ensure justice for all. Help us share all the blessings You give us, and help us to secure justice and equality for every human being.
O God, help us bring an end to division and to continue to build our country on peace and love. Let us always remember that despite our differences, we are one human family.
Almighty God, bless our leaders with vision and foresight and with a clarity of purpose as they lead our country. Bless our country on this very special day of prayer . In Your name we pray. Amen.
To learn more about Members who have sponsored a Guest Chaplain, please visit the Congressional Biographical Directory