The Office of the Chaplain United States House of Representatives

Reverend Michael Cummings

Burnt Swamp Association
Pembroke, NC

Sponsor: Rep. Mike McIntyre, (D-NC)
Date of Prayer: 05/07/2009

One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:

Mr. McINTYRE. Madam Speaker, I have the high honor today of introducing the gentleman that just spoke as our guest chaplain, the Reverend Dr. Michael Cummings of Pembroke, North Carolina. And what an honor it is to have him open Congress on this National Day of Prayer.

Born and reared in rural Robeson County, which is also my home county, Dr. Cummings has spent a lifetime sharing the positive and powerful word of God with many. And through his ministry, Mike Cummings has made a difference in changing hearts and building a better community.

He is a graduate of Campbell University, Southeastern Theological Seminary, and a recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Campbell. He has served multiple churches in southeastern North Carolina and is an instructor also at the Southern Baptist Seminary Extension Program, and now is director of missions at Burt Swamp Baptist.

Madam Speaker, truly the Nation today has had the opportunity to hear eloquent words and the keen insight of not only one of Robeson County's most respected citizens, but also a gentleman who has led the State Baptist convention. Through his words, he has left his mark here in the U.S. House, just as he has left his mark on North Carolina and our beloved home and county.

We are thrilled today also to have his family join us. We are thrilled today to have him lead us on this National Day of Prayer.

I hope also that all Members of Congress will join us for the National Day of Prayer events that are occurring as we speak in the Cannon Caucus Room today until noon.

Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:

Blessed God and Father, eternal in majesty and glory, we are humbled to come before you in this moment of prayer. You have made America a great nation and established it in a glorious heritage of faith, freedom and compassion. We are privileged by your presence among us.

Restore us to love and loyalty to you first. Give us the unambiguous view of your desire that we might embrace it.

May it please you to grant these esteemed leaders throughout this chamber wisdom and moral insight for complex decision–making in these uncertain days. May mutual respect abound among them. Bless them with agreement and solidarity in their quest for the well–being of all people. Lead us all to do what is right in your eyes.

And may we, together with these our elected leaders, honor you throughout this day and days without end. In the name of Christ, Amen.

To learn more about Members who have sponsored a Guest Chaplain, please visit the Congressional Biographical Directory