Reverend Earl F. Palmer
National Presbyterian Church
Washington, DC
Sponsor: Rep. Mac Thornberry, (R-TX)
Date of Prayer: 03/25/2009
One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:
Mr. THORNBERRY. Madam Speaker, our guest chaplain today represents a convergence of two Washingtons. Rev. Earl Palmer is from Washington State and recently retired as the senior pastor at University Presbyterian Church in Seattle. Currently, he is the Preaching Pastor in Residence at the National Presbyterian Church here in Washington, D.C., as he also preaches around the country under the nonprofit Earl Palmer Ministries organization.
With degrees from UC–Berkeley and Princeton Theological Seminary, he is the author of 18 books. Rev. Palmer is also one of the leading scholars on the life and works of C.S. Lewis.
Citizens from both Washingtons and many others in the country and in between have benefited from the work of this remarkable man. His love of the Gospel and his enthusiasm for sharing the Gospel are evident in all of his preachings and teachings, as is his basic human kindness.
Shirley, Earl's wife of 50 years, has a Ph.D. from the University of Washington. They have three children and seven grandchildren, some of whom are with us today.
Many lives have been blessed by the life and ministry of Earl Palmer , and it is my honor to help welcome him here today to the House of Representatives.
Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:
O God, Our Father, we begin this day with gratitude and resolve.
We give thanks for those who are privileged to serve in this place of study, deliberation, decisions and history.
We are grateful for our republic of citizens, young and old, their cities and states, farms and villages – a people, who by their work and dreams give motivation and energy to what happens here in this House of Representatives.
As we begin this day, we claim, O God, your gift of truth and grace: for truth that bears the imprint of integrity and honesty and for your grace that forgives us when harm happens and healing is needed to keep us whole.
We ask for the wisdom, courage and respect that build friendships among these leaders who guide our land. Grant us the hope that encourages through morning, afternoon, and evening hours because of your love and faithfulness.
Amen.
To learn more about Members who have sponsored a Guest Chaplain, please visit the Congressional Biographical Directory