The Office of the Chaplain United States House of Representatives

Monsignor Robert Kurwicki

Cathedral of St. Joseph
Jefferson City, MO

Sponsor: Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, (R-MO)
Date of Prayer: 03/20/2013

One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:

The SPEAKER. Without objection, the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Luetkemeyer) is recognized for 1 minute.

There was no objection.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, today it is my privilege to introduce Monsignor Robert A. Kurwicki as an esteemed guest to deliver the opening prayer of the United States House of Representatives.

Monsignor Kurwicki is the Reverend Monsignor of the Cathedral of Saint Joseph in Jefferson City, Missouri. The monsignor has served the great State of Missouri as the chaplain of the Missouri House of Representatives since 2011, a position in which he is responsible for leading the members of the State house in prayer and helping to improve the strong tradition of faith in our capitol in Missouri.

In addition to his important role in the Missouri House of Representatives, he is also a member of the Priests Senate and Vice–Chancellor of the Diocese of Jefferson City. Monsignor Kurwicki is and has been a tremendous spiritual influence, not only to myself and my family, but also the Third District, as well as the entire State of Missouri.

It is an honor to welcome him here to Congress and thank him for his invaluable service to our community and our country.

Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:

O gracious and merciful God, so great and everlasting, we come before You today with our hearts filled with sincere love and true devotion. Now grant us, in this, the people's House, a spirit of justice and goodwill in order that the important work of this day may be carried out in truth and charity.

We know that, by our own strength, we will falter and fail. Yet we have a hope that You will never leave us or forget us in Your great shepherd's care. We are serious as we recommit ourselves to You and to Your goals. Show us the way to perfection.

Bless these elected Members, their families, staffs, and constituents in a special way this day, in order that they may continue to reach for the highest, noblest, and greatest benefits for this Nation.

And the House says, Amen.

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